BLITZ SHEÁIN UÍ LOINSIGH – FAOI 10: Sunday last saw the second holding of the John Lynch Memorial Under 10 Blitz in Connolly Park. It was played in excellent weather conditions; huge crowds began to descend from early morning in anticipation of top class entertainment…and they certainly were not disappointed. Teams from Dublin (Kilmacud Crokes), Cork (St Finbarrs, Glanmire and Ballinora) and Kerry (Milltown, Ardfert, Churchill and The Rock) thrilled the delighted multitude right from the 11am whistle that put 8 simultaneous matches into feverish and very skilful action. Following the group stages and a very touching parade, the finals were played right on schedule at 1.30pm.
Respective group winners, our own Austin Stack Club and the Kilmacud Club, met in a hugely memorable Cup Final. A draw between both club’s number 1 teams saw the final few seconds of the number 2 teams in the adjoining pitch assume massive significance…..with a late goal there breaking a titanic deadlock in favour of our Dublin visitors. ‘Well done’ to both Kilmacud and Rock heroes. The Shield Final saw St Finbarr’s emerge victorious over Glanmire in an epic All-Cork Derby. Churchill came out on top in the Plate Final against Milltown with Ardfert winning the Trophy against a very popular and talented Cork contingent from Ballinora.
The 32 matches and parade finished well ahead of schedule, thanks to the excellent organising committee and, in particular, to the 8 designated club chaperones, parking marshals and the score takers under watchful eye of Anne Heaslip. The octet of Kerry senior referees, assembled by Denis Sayers, was widely and universally applauded throughout the day. Maurice Mac and his culinary experts achieved the impossible, from early morning teas and scones to feeding over 300 in a short number of post-final minutes at 2 separate stations; they deserve huge thanks. Finally, the club’s unsung heroes, Noel O’Connell and John Breen, showed yet again why they are indispensable and central to everything that goes on in Connolly Park throughout the year…Laochra Gael den scoth!!! Many thanks to all who supported. A fitting occasion in memory of the late John Lynch. Beannacht Dé lena anam.