ronan fagan
The comfortable surrounds of the Sheraton Hotel Athlone was the setting for the Croí na hÉireann awards presentation ceremony.
Chairman of the Festival committee, Mr John Henson, acted as MC for the night and he welcomed a crowd of approximately 200 people to the occasion. In his address, the chairman expressed his gratitude to all those who participated in the various activities during the five day event which culminated in the St Patrick's Day parade.
Mr Henson made particular reference to all who worked behind the scenes, the coaches, mentors and the committee members from each organisation who gave so much of their spare time for the benefit of all.
"Despite dreadful weather not one single event was cancelled and large numbers participated in the showpiece event of the Festival, our St Patrick's Day parade," Mr Henson stated.
He thanked the judging panel of Jean Coyle, Lynda Tiley and Frankie McDonnell for their expert advice and selection of award recipients.
"The theme for this year's Festival was 'Mná na hÉireann', recognising and honouring the incredible contribution made by Irish women to Ireland in and our local communities in particular.
"Local business woman, Ms Tanya Cannon, Director of A1 Cleaning Ltd was selected as this year's Grand Marshall as the committee felt she epitomised strength and leadership qualities, her success as a business woman complemented by her support of local community groups and sporting bodies," Mr Henson added.
The chairman welcomed Tanya to the stage to receive her award in due recognition of her community role with Rosemount native and Rose of Tralee, Rachel Duffy, making the worthy presentation.
Having a County Westmeath native in such a recognisable role, both nationally and internationally, was a suitable fit for the 'Mná na hÉireann' theme and Rachel was more than happy to pose for photographs post ceremony, just one of her numerous positive traits.
In his capacity as treasurer of the Festival committee, Cllr Frankie Keena, also warmly thanked all the dedicated community groups and those who participated in the Festival ensuring it was such a success.
"The buzz and 'buy in' from the local community was just marvellous. I wish to thank all the fantastic sponsors including Westmeath County Council for their generous financial support. This year we were so fortunate to link up with TUS who kindly made their excellent campus available for some events," Cllr Keena concluded.
Parade Awards
The Community Awards were jointly presented by Mayor of Athlone, Cllr Vincent Mc Cormack and the Westmeath County Council District Manager, Ms Jacqueline Finney.
First place was awarded to the Polish community, with the Indian community in second place.
The Sports Awards were presented by Mr Kenny O Brien from Athlone Extrusions who presented the accolade for first place to Na Fianna, while second place was achieved by Athlone Karate Club.
The Best New Entrants Award was afforded to Wings Rhythmic Gymnastics, while Best Overall Float was claimed by Southern Gaels.
The Spirit of the Parade Award went to Athlone Town ladies soccer team, while the Individual Spirit of the Parade Award was presented to Ms Emee Lynch.
The Judges Awards were presented by Ms Caoimhe O Connell of Shannon Academy.
The Gerry O'Doherty Fishing Competition Perpetual Cup was presented to the winner Rowan 'Champ' Mulvihill by competition sponsor, Mr Michael Ganly, with proceeds from this competition were presented to the 'Access for All Boat' by Mr James Naughton, Secretary of the Lough Ree Anglers Federation.
Festival Contribution Awards
These awards were presented to business and sporting organisations for their significant contribution to the overall success of the Festival.
Chairman, John Henson presented the Westmeath County Council with an award and highlighted the sizeable financial contribution made by the local authority and at local level by the employees who worked from early morning to late in the evening in very wet conditions setting up and dismantling the physical infrastructure required for the parade day.
Award Recipients
Athlone Boat Club, RNLI, Sub Aqua and River Safety Awareness group who were co-ordinated by Padraig O Hegarty and provided an exciting and colourful display on the River Shannon during the Festival.
Additional community groups and organisations who received awards were Athlone GAA Club, Garrycastle GAA Club, Ganly Hardware, Athlone Extrusions, Paddy Beaumont, TUS, Athlone Boxing Club, Seans Bar, Athlone Credit Union, Bank of Ireland and Fern Hill.
During what was a celebratory occasion there were performances on the night from the Reynolds Academy of Irish Dancing, Na Fianna and Wings Rhythmic Gymnastics.
