GARDA SPORTS DAY SUCCESS
TOM Connolly was some man! Not only did he leave a lasting legacy in terms of policing, but he manages to have a say with the weather on at least one day a year.
Each year, the local gardai and the schools in the district come together for the Garda Tom Connolly Memorial Sports Day.
And every year, the weather is plucked from the arms of summer and last week was no different.
Gently tucked in between Ophelia and Brian, the event proved to be another huge success and this time, it was St Mary’s Primary School who came out victors after three hours of fierce competition at the O’Raghallaigh’s.
The Tom Connolly shield was won by Walshestown while the Best Artwork on the day went to Educate Together.
One of the toughest events is the Tug O War and Callystown won the title for 2017, from St Mary’s and Cartown.
Speaking on the day, Chief Supt Christopher Mangan thanked all those who made the day possible, including the teachers - despite the fact they beat the gardai 2-1 in a tug o war match!
It was the seventh annual event and Tom’s wife Tricia was on hand to give out the top awards.
‘ Tom is remembered fondly as the first community guard in Drogheda. He was a guard 24 hours a day,’ he stated.
He praised the efforts of Garda David Rothwell and the community policing team for their role in the event.
He also thanked the many sponsors who helped with medals and the supply of refreshments for each student after the games.