Awards for South Sligo CCE at Fleadh Cheoil

It was an exciting and successful week of competitions, concerts, céilithe, sessions and more at the 2017 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

Sligo winners at the fleadh included Conan Marren, of Suuth Sligo CCE, who was part of the winning Grupa Cheoil, and came second in the 15- 18 flute show airs.

450,000 people thronged the streets of Ennis over the past nine days, while 12,000 people attended the special opening by Lord of the Dance, Michael Flatley.

The town pulsed with Irish rhythm and revelry as age- old traditions were celebrated by new generations and the vibrancy of the Fleadh emanated throughout the streets.

This is the fourth time that the All- Ireland Fleadh has been held in Ennis. It has previously been held in 2016, 1956 and 1977. Every year, the Fleadh provides a cultural meeting place for those who carry the great traditions of Irish music, song and dance in their hearts.

Frank Whelan, Chairman of the Fleadh Executive Committee said, “It has been a great privilege and an even greater responsibility to host this fantastic event. We thank all the visitors to Ennis and sincerely hope that everybody had a wonderful, safe and happy time in our town and county.”

At the core of the Fleadh are the competitions that see traditional musicians, dancers and singers of all ages and backgrounds competing at All- Ireland level, following victories at regional competitions.

For all the Sligo results and further details on the Fleadh and competitions, visit www. fleadhcheoil. ie

Conor Prendergast, Niamh Timon, and Colm Doddy at St. Attractas Tuibbercurry getting their Leaving Cert results. Pic: Tom Callanan

Conan Marren from South Sligo CEE, Co. Sligo who came second in the fifteen to eighteen Flute Slow Airs and was part of the winning Grupa Cheoil at the 2017 Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Ennis. Photograph by Loretto O Loughlin/ www. instantimageireland. com