Oughterard GAA and the Welby family have revived a popular tourament for the first time in 32 years.
The Welby Cup tournament, first held in 1973, was primarily played to help finance the running of the local club, Cumann Peile Seamus O'Maille.
Not played since 1982, the tournament will now be contested by senior clubs in the Connemara region with all games played in Oughterard.
This year’s tournament boasts five teams, but it is hoped to increase the number to eight in the future.
Oughterard GAA chairman, Terence Monaghan, says the tournament will provide the clubs in the area with more games.
“ I am happy this tournament is recommencing as I believe the additional games will be beneficial to the clubs taking part, particularly as it will be prior to important championship games”
Thomas Welby, representing the Welby family, says: I am delighted the tournament has been revived and we hope that it will help to raise the standard of football in the region in the long term and contribute to the finances of the local club.”
The preliminary round was played on Saturday when Carna/Cashel overcame a spirited Leitir Moir team by 2-10 to 0-13.
Oughterard will now play Carna/Cashel and Carraroe will face Moycullen in the semi-finals to be played on Saturday May 10, with the final on Sunday May 11.
