Fr Dalton's marks successful year with memorable dinner dance

The mood was very definitely upbeat as Fr Dalton's Hurling Club from Ballymore celebrated a wonderful year at their Dinner Dance and presentation evening in the Bloomfield House Hotel last Saturday night.

Guests of honours included Westmeath GAA Chairman Frank Mescall; Westmeath GAA President and Fr Dalton’s President Joe Martin; and manager of the Fr Dalton’s senior ‘B’ hurling side, Eamonn Gallagher and his wife Chris.

Frank Mescall praised the club for its outstanding work and paid tribute to the commitment and dedication of all involved. Fr Dalton’s has direct links with Ballymore GAA with whom they share their home, but they have a number of dual players connected to other football clubs (such as Maryland and Milltown) around the area and the commitment of all players was noted.

It was a night of celebration for the Fr Dalton’s Senior ‘B’ hurlers of 2024, who claimed the title when they defeated Delvin, 3-12 to 3-11, in a pulsating final. The Junior ‘B’ hurlers of 2023 were also recognised following their success, while the minor division 2 winners of 2024 were presented with their medals.

Manager Eamonn Gallagher and Frank Mescall presented the Senior ‘B’ and Junior ‘B’ medals, while the committee members honoured the minor hurlers.

“We were celebrating a great year and people were in fantastic form on the evening and it proved a memorable occasion - a great social gathering as well as an opportunity to celebrate success,” said Fr Dalton’s Secretary Denis O’Roarke. "We were delighted to have Frank Mescall, Joe and Mary Martin and Eamonn and Chris Gallagher in attendance."

It was a proud evening for the club’s long-serving committee members, including Chairman Brian McCabe; Secretary Denis O’Roarke; Treasurer Seán Smyth; PRO Joanne Martin; and Registrar Thomas ‘Spike’ McCormack.

The following message of appreciation was posted by the club: "A fantastic night was had by all and a massive thanks to all involved in organising the event; to Two Tones for the great music and to the Bloomfield House Hotel, Leisure Club & Spa for the hospitality and delicious food. It was a great occasion and a lovely way to celebrate the clubs recent achievements. As well as our senior players, it was great to have our minor hurlers in attendance. The future of the club is very bright and we’re looking forward to seeing them progress to the senior ranks."

Westmeath GAA chairman Frank Mescall also took the opportunity to urge all Gaels to lend their support to the ongoing Westmeath GAA fundraiser, ‘Win a Home in Spain’, which will culminate with a major draw in May. All funds raised will go towards the new Westmeath GAA home, or centre of excellence, in Robinstown, Mullingar. This is key development for the future of Gaelic games in Westmeath and will give all players improved facilities and direct access to the county’s own training pitches for the first time ever.

*See this week's paper for more photos from the Fr Dalton's function.