Kerry Sport Stars set to shine at major awards event

FRIDAY, February 7 at 7:15pm at The Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney is the time and venue for the annual gala banquet Kerry Sport Star and Special Awards. Now in its seventh year, it’s an occasion that brings together the crème de crème of Kerry sport to celebrate their achievements. It’s also an occasion that acknowledges the rising stars from football to cycling and soccer to rowing. The usual high-class field of participants encapsulating the local, international, senior, special categories, unsung heroes and the very popular juvenile category will take to the stage. Event Organiser Ken O’Day said he is excited ahead of the event and is extremely proud of the fact the awards reflect the achievements of Kerry athletes at a local level right through to European and world level. The awards are also designed to recognise sports that would not normally get an opportunity to bask in the limelight, even though these athletes work and contribute every bit as hard in their chosen sports. One of the hallmarks of the night is that the awards are handed out to people from the Kingdom who have achieved honours at all levels and grades. “It’s an event that continues to exceed expectations. The judging for this year has been finalised and we’re delighted to say that a final list has been completed,” said Ken. Ken believes there is no one better placed to nominate an individual than their own clubs. While the event has gone from strength to strength, Ken would like to see more businesses/organisations sponsoring their own nominations. Ken is very happy with the sponsors over the past seven years but he is looking for more sponsors to come on board. The clubs could sponsor their nominations and the judging panel will oversee the nominations forwarded. “These awards are thanks to the hard work of everyone involved including our judging panel as it is they who draw on their many years of experience and knowledge sourcing the awardees in their respective categories. I would also like to thank our sponsors without whom this event could not take place. The Gleneagle Hotel has also been a great supporter of the event and we thank them. We look forward to seeing everyone on the night,” said Ken. Tickets are now on sale at the INEC Box Office. Numbers have been reduced this year so the advice is to book them fast. Tickets are €50 for adults and €25 for juveniles. For more information contact Ken on: 087 204 8677.