The Clare Champion Clare news, sport, entertainment and local notes
MAGIC moments in an incredible year for Clare hurling were recalled on Saturday night when the U-21s were feted at a function in the Auburn Lodge, Ennis. There was a tremendous atmosphere at the packed to capacity event, as team members were presented with their Munster and All-Ireland medals
Tributes were paid to the achievements of the up-and-coming stars of Clare hurling, among them Hurler of the Year, Tony Kelly, in retaining the provincial and All-Ireland [beating Antrim] titles. The contribution which many of them made to the senior All-Ireland winning side was also acknowledged.
The efforts of the management and backroom squad in having the side prepared to such a high level of fitness and skills was praised. Hopes were also expressed that the U-21s, with an infusion of some additional players from minor level, could go on to defend their titles in 2014.
The achievement of Davy Fitzgerald and his charges in bringing the Liam MacCarthy Cup back to Clare for the first time since 1997 was also lauded.
Meanwhile, this Sunday evening, Cratloe GAA Club members and supporters will gather at the Bunraty Castle Hotel to celebrate an historic year. Medals will be presented to the footballers who won the club’s first ever Clare Senior Football title, beating Doonbeg in the final. In their first Munster outing, they were pipped by a single point, scored in injury time, by the formidable Dr Crokes from Kerry.
Cratloe will also celebrate a number of under-age titles.
See Thursday’s Clare Champion for photos from both events, as well as photos from Lissycasey GAA Club’s annual dinner
