Ballintotis Bulletin

(by John Cashman)

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EAST CORK & DISTRICT SPORTS AWARDS FOR JOHN CASHMAN

John receiving the award from Patrick Shields, Manager, Midleton Park Hotel. Also pictured are Deputy Lord Mayor, Cllr Fergal Dennehy, along with Siobhan, Eoin and Darragh Cashman (courtesy Evening Echo)

See full story here

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13/4/15

Sonia Returns
This year’s race was given a further boost a few days ago when former World Champion and Olympic medalist Sonia O’Sullivan declared her intention to run in the race, having also taken part 2 years ago. Sonia thoroughly enjoyed her visit to Ballintotis in 2013 and following a return from recent injury she took to the roads again on Sunday last when finishing 3rd lady in the Great Island ‘4’ Mile Race in her native Cobh.

Help Required
The organisation of the race requires involvement from so many different people and once more the local Ballintotis community are stepping up to the task. But we still need one final push in the following areas.

Here are the main areas where the organisers still need assistance.

Stewards Help
We need over 100 stewards to make this race happen. If you know of anyone that would like to help out please contact 086-8778182.

Food
We need as much as possible. As mentioned before this is a community effort and without out its not possible. Cakes/sandwiches/biscuits/quiches whatever it is please contact Jean O Gorman on 086-3319101, or private message her on Facebook. She needs to know numbers urgently.


Entry Desks
Entry Desks will be open from 5pm to 7pm on this Wednesday evening and from 1pm onwards on Thursday. It is important to note that if you have already entered on line, it is necessary to collect your race number and race buff at either of the aforementioned times. Please make a special effort to collect your number or enter as early as possible.

Car Parks
Weather permitting there will be three car parks in operation. All motorists are asked to follow the advice of the gardai and stewards when approaching the race route. Car Parks will be signposted well in advance on the approach roads. Please allow plenty of time in advance of the race start and please be patient afterwards. Obviously, before during and after the race there will be restricted access for motorists.

Walk Begins at 6.30pm
The walk will begin at 6.30pm sharp and will go in the opposite direction to the race. Registration for the walk will take place from 5.30pm to 6.15pm. Refreshments for all walkers will be served in the marquee adjacent to the Community Centre immediately after the walk and before the start of the race.

Race Begins At 8pm Sharp
Wheelchair competitor Jerry Forde will begin at 7.45pm with the race beginning at 8pm sharp. All competitors are asked to be at the start line by 7.50pm. There will be graded time zones in operation and ALL competitors are asked to line up in their correct time zone, based on their anticipated finishing time. By doing so, the race will be much more enjoyable and safer for everybody.

Chip Timing
Of course, chip timing has been introduced this year. So there is no need for panic as a timing mat will be in operation at both the start and finish line. Full results will be available quickly afterwards with all race results/category prizes also on line at precisiontiming.net.

Prizes
This year’s race will feature a very generous list of prizes with individual prizes going to the top 6 men and top 6 women across the line. There are also 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes in all categories and a host of spot prizes to be won. Both Castlemartyr Resort and Trabolgan Holiday Centre will sponsor the top prizes with Castlemartyr Resort offering a fantastic 1 year free membership of their magnificent Leisure Centre for the race winner and 1st female finisher. Thanks to the sponsorship of McCarthy & McGrath Auctioneers, Midleton each participant will also receive a free running buff.

Spot Prizes
There will also be spot prizes aplenty – runners/walkers are asked to check of their back of their number to see if they have won a spot prize. Winners can collect their prizes after the race from the stage area.

All Race Enquiries
Finally all race day enquiries should be directed to the designated race line 086 8778182.

Soccer Success For Cathal and Eoin
Away from the race, but still on sporting matters we send our heartiest congratulations to two young Ballintotis soccer players Cathal Murphy and Eoin Quirke (pictured) who were in the news last weekend. The duo who are members of Mogeely FC were part of the club crew selected on the regional East Cork/West Waterford Development League Squad for the DB Sports Coerver Cup and Shield Two Day competition which took place at the U.C.C Grounds in Curraheen. Both players turned in very impressive performances over the course of the weekend event and are proudly displaying the spoils of victory following a thrilling penalty shoot-out success in the Shield Final. Well done guys – Champions League next!!

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The countdown is underway to the 2015 Ballintotis 4 Mile Road Race which takes place on Thursday April 16th at 8pm. After last year’s very successful event which attracted 996 runners and was won for the fifth year in a row by James McCarthy of East Cork AC, another big entry is expected this time around.

Chip timing at the start and the finish will be introduced this year and with it comes the opportunity to pre register. Online entry will be open from 9am on Monday March 9th until 12 midnight on Monday April 13th. After that there will still be the opportunity to register at Race HQ in Ballintotis Community Centre. Registration will be available from 5pm to 7pm on the evening prior to the race and again from 1pm onwards on race day Thursday April 16th. Entry fee is €10 (plus administration fee if availing of the convenient on line entry). By clicking on the link above from March 9th and following this link, participants will be able to pre register and also find out the latest pre race news.

This year’s race will again feature a very generous list of prizes with individual prizes to the top 6 men and top 6 women across the line. There are also 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes in all categories and a host of spot prizes to be won. Both Castlemartyr Resort and Trabolgan Holiday Centre have again confirmed that they will sponsor the top prizes. Castlemartyr Resort is offering 1 year free membership of their magnificent Leisure Centre for the race winner and 1st female. Trabolgan is providing an extended weekend break for both runners up. Thanks to the generosity of McCarthy & McGrath Auctioneers, Midleton all participants will also receive a souvenir running buff.

The Ballintotis 4 Mile Race is of course held in association with East Cork AC and with the assistance of Ballycotton Running Promotions.

All enquiries to Sean Murphy or John Cashman on 086-8778182

 

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Ballintotis Honours 1964 Churchtown North Team
There is a very special occasion in store on this Sunday evening November 9th in Ballintotis Community Centre. Fifty years on from their historic triumph in the East Cork Junior ‘B’Grade Hurling Championship, team members of the victorious Churchtown North side are being brought together for a reunion function, which begins at 7pm. It will be a night to recall great deeds on the palying pitch but also a chance for old friends to meet again and relive some of the lifespan of a club which has actually come and gone on a number of occasions either side of the 1964 triumph.

The good news is that all are invited to join the victorious team in Sunday’s night of nostalgia. Admission to the function is free with finger food served, music playing and no doubt a few stories being told.

So don’t miss the opportunity to meet a historic hurling team, the Churchtown North hurlers who fifty years ago reigned supreme in the divisional championship which saw 17 teams take part. The locals defeated Watergrasshill in a thrilling semi final, before going on to get the better of Killeagh in the decider. To cap a mighty season they also won the prestigious O’Riordan Cup which was a keenly contested local event, with the Midleton junior side amongst it’s participants.

Join us this Sunday at Ballintotis Community Centre from 7pm to 9pm as we delve a little bit more in some fascinating local folklore.

Best Wishes To Ballintotis NS
Still on a sporting team, but moving on five decade, all our best wishes go with the Ballintotis N.S School team who play Rusheen N.S in the Sciath Na Scol Football Final, tomorrow Thursday November 6th at Pairc Ui Chaoimh – throw in 11am. A huge number of supporters from the area are expected to cheer on the Ballintotis team.

Castlemartyr Win
The Castlemartyr hurling road show is gathering momentum. Last Sunday’s win over Kenmare in Tralee means the locals have a Semi Final date on Cork soil on Sunday week. From a local angle, Ballintotis man Michael O’Neill returned to the starting 15 and made a fine impression at full forward whilst another local James Lawton made his debut at this level.

Yoga In Ballintotis
Yoga classes for Beginners have begun in Ballintotis Community Centre and will take place each Thursday from 8pm to 9pm under the guidance of Mary Kelly. A limited number of places are still available in the current term. All enquiries should be directed to Mary on 086 3241168

Community Christmas Social
The Ballintotis Christmas Social which takes place on Sunday December 7th is now just over four weeks away. Last year’s event was a huge success and this year promises more of the same. Musical entertainment, dancing and delicious seasonal food served all for just 10 euro. The event is being organised by the Community Alert Committee. The function is limited to 100 people – so get your ticket without delay from Veronica O’Farrell, Josie Knowles, Mary Molloy, Kevin Cronin, Paul Kelly or John Cashman. Events get under way at 7pm.

Fit4Life Club
The Ballintotis Fit4Life Club continues to grow with over 110 members now joined the club. The usual Sunday morning runs take place in Glenbower with club night taking place during the winter months in Castlemartyr (to avail of public lighting). Assembly point is at the local School Hall at 7.15pm sharp with all levels of runners welcome to attend. There are also other occasional runs during the week. The best advice is to keep up to date with the club’s excellent facebook page which is superbly run by P.R.O Louise Casey.

On the roads John O Donoghue, Vicky Murphy, Tom O’Neill, Mary Molloy and Mags Duggan were amongst the club members to enjoy fine runs in the recent Lee Fields ‘4’ Mile Race. Last Sunday a number of runners took part in the H.S.E 4 mIle Race in Cork. The next local fixture is a new 5K Race being organised by the Cork B.H.A.A on Sunday week in Little Island.

On the longer term a number of club athletes have also pencilled in the Waterford Half Marathon in early December as a target over the longer distance. Meantime, details of the club’s Christmas party Night are due to be finalised shortly.

Marathon Brothers
Still on running we say heartiest congratulations to Loughaderra natives Brendan and Martin Curtin who last week completed yet another Dublin City Marathon. The guys have been regulars on the Marathon scene in recent years and once again took the 26.2 challenge very much in their stride. Martin, who runs with St Finbarr’s A.C is very much at the serious end of the field, clocking a superb personal best time of 2:54:05 whilst Brendan produced yet another very steady performance coming home in just over 3 and a half hours. The brothers have together ran the Dublin race twice whilst also lining up side by side for the Cork equivalent. In total it’s now seven marathons completed for Martin and six for Brendan, who remarked the mild temperatures and adjusted course made this year’s Dublin a bit tougher.

Cemetery Prayers
November Cemetery Prayers for the dead take place in Churchtown North Cemetery on Sunday next November 9th at 2.30pm in Balloughtera at 3pm on the same day.

Cake Sale
The Parents’ Association of Ballintotis N.S will hold a Cake Sale after 10.00am Mass on this Sunday 9th November in the Community Hall. Parents’ support will be much appreciated on the day.

Congrats to Brian Cott
Finally,a big shout to Ballintotis native Brian Cott who recorded a superb time of 3 hours 14 minutes 54 seconds in Monday’s Dublin City Marathon. This time placed Brian in 766th position in a race that saw over12,500 finishers. For the record Brian averaged 7.27 per mile. – Take a bow Brian!!

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28/9/14

Tuesday Club
The Tuesday Club is now officially open again and will meet every second Tuesday from 2.30pm to 4.30pm at Ballintotis Community Centre. A full programme of events has been organised and it features a talk entitled “Healthy Juicing” by Chris and Kate on Tuesday next October 7th. Two weeks later, a guest speaker from Youghal Citizens’ Advice Bureau will be in attendance with a wide range of information on various subjects. The Tuesday Club will then embark on a Half Day Outing on November 4th with a visit from Susan Herlihy of Crafty Hands to look forward to on November 18th. December will bring the traditional Pre Christmas Floral Display on Tuesday 2nd with the Christmas Lunch at The Two Mile Inn scheduled for December 16th.

Yoga At Community Centre
Yoga for men on Thursdays is the latest activity soon to begin at the Community Centre . More details to follow shortly. Also in action is the Fleet Feet Walking Group which has proved such a popular gathering each Wednesday evening since it was introduced earlier this year.

Both the Main Hall and Meeting Room are available to hire for regular or once off bookings, with full internet access, catering facilities and public address available making it the ideal venue for clubs, groups, organisations, business seminars, meetings etc. All enquiries should be directed to 086-3319101.

Fit4Life
These are busy times for the Ballintotis Fit4Life Club with stalwarts Tom O’Neill and John O’Donoghue in the limelight last week as they won first and second prizes respectively in their age category at the North Monastery 5K race. - Congrts to the guys on some super running.

On Sunday the Cork to Cobh Race 15 Mile Race and the Ladies Mini Marathon made it a busy day for many club members and supporters. Eilish Downing certainly hit the headlines when finishing in a magnificent 17th position overall in what was a competitive race up front in the Mini Marathon. All reports indicate that some excellent times were also recorded in the 15 Miler.

This coming weekend there is a big Ballintotis contingent heading to Killarney to part take in a major Adventure Race, which includes cycling, canoeing and running. We wish all the best in their endeavours.

Club members should note that assembly point for this week’s run on Thursday is in Castlemartyr (adjacent to the school) at 7.15pm and not at the usual venue in Ballintotis.

Harvest Mass
A large gathering was present at St Colman’s Church on Friday evening last for the annual Harvest Thanksgiving Mass. A great amount of work was put in preparing the Church for the occasion with a huge display of crops, fruit etc on view after one of the finest and longest summers on record.

Altar Servers
Last Friday’s Mass also saw certificate presentations being made to the eight departing altar servers who “retired” from their duties following their recent move to second level school.
Those to receive presentations were Kate McCarthy, Niamh Molloy, Zara Bowles, Aisling Murphy, Daniel Walshe, Sean Duggan, James Butler and Darragh Cashman. The altar servers were complimented on their work over the past two years.

Congratulations Jessica
Congratulations to local lady Jessica O’Shea who was par tof the Cork Senior panel that fashioned a famous comeback to win last Sunday’s All Ireland Final in Croke Park.

Castlemartyr In Action
Castlemartyr junior hurlers return to action on this Saturday evening with plenty of local involvement in the side that takes on Newcestown in the County Quarter Final Replay. The match is timed for 8pm under lights at Pairc Ui Rinn, with the winners due to back into action in the penultimate round on the following weekend against Cloughduv.

Sciath Na Scol
Still on GAA matters, Ballinotis National School continued their excellent form in Sciath Na Scol Football with victory over Inch N.S last week, a result which pushes them towards the latter stages of this year’s competition.

Youth Club
The Castlemartyr/Ballintotis Youth Club is due to meet for the first time following the summer break on Friday week October 10th – 7.30pm in Castlemartyr School Hall. This is Registration Night and parents must be present for registration forms to be accepted. The club alternates between Castlemartyr School Hall and Ballintotis Community Centre for their weekly get-togethers which run from 7.30pm to 9pm each Friday.

Community Social
Tickets for the Christmas Social, organised by the Community Alert committee, which proved such a great success last year will go on sale next week, at a cost of 10 euro. . The social will be held on Sunday December 7th and will be limited to just 100 people for this sit down meal.

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5/9/14

Back To School
September has arrived and it’s back to school in Ballintotis after the summer break. A special welcome is extended to all the Junior Infants class who are now settling in well in their new surroundings. The addition of the superb All Weather Playing Pitch has been met with great delight by all pupils who have already put the new facility to good use.

Meantime last year’s Sixth Class have of course moved on to Secondary School and our best wishes to go with them all as they begin Second level.

Community Centre
The Ballintotis Community Centre is beginning to get busy for the forthcoming Autumn/Winter season with a number of regular events retaining their usual time slots. Both the Main Hall and Meeting Room are available to hire for regular or once off bookings, with full internet access, catering facilities and public address available making it the ideal venue for clubs, groups, organisations, business seminars, meetings etc. All enquiries should be directed to 086-3319101.

Dance Classes
Qualified teachers Pat and Alice Nolan return with their weekly Dance Classes, beginning a new term on Monday next September 15th from 8pm to 9pm. Social Ballroom, Latin, Foxtrot and Step Waltz are all on the agenda guaranteeing plenty of variety. Please call 4631285 or 087-1302283 for further information.

Pilates
Matt Chojan also returns with his Tuesday Pilates Classes from next week. They will run for a six week period from 7.30pm to 8.30pm each Tuesday and are basically a continuation class for improvers – for more information please see www.mattpilates.com. Incidentally it’s appropriate that we say congratulations to Matt and his Maggie who completed a Mountain Marathon in Poland just last weekend.


Fleet Feet Walkers
The Fleet Feet Walking Group enjoyed a hugely successful few months back in Springtime. This is a project being jointly promoted by the HSE and Cork Sports Partnership. Deirdre Carr was the leading lady behind the local venture, which attracted very large gatherings at the Community Centre each week. The good news is that it is on the agenda to return again on Wednesdays with more info’ available locally from Deirdre.

Fit4Life
With the conclusion of the mid week racing scene the Ballintotis Fit4Life Club which has now in excess of 100 members, have reverted back to Thursdays as training night. Assembly time is from 7pm at the Community Centre with training commencing at 7.15pm. New members are welcome to attend.

Members have taken part in a huge number of races during the summer and we say congrat’s to all from the club who competed in all 4 races in the Ballycotton 5 Mile Series. A special word is extended to Michelle Forrest who finished 23rd Lady overall in the Series and is now in proud possession of a coveted Ballycotton ‘Top 30’ tee shirt. Michelle’s aggregate time was 2:32:48. She becomes the first person from the club to achieve the distinction of a Top 30 finish.

There were some great performances on the concluding night in the Series in Ballycotton, with Cyril Garde, Fraser MacGlip and Dominic Barry leading the local men home and Diane Broderick, Kay Murphy and Bridget Ryan amongst the ladies to impress.

Elsewhere Mary O’Mahony took the top prize in her category with a fine run in the recent Inch 5K with club mate Kay Murphy winning the runners up prize in the same category. Meantime Sylvie O’Mahony, Martina O’Brien and Jane O’Connell were amongst the many Ballintotis based runners to enjoy excellent runs in the recent races associated with the conclusion of the 2068 Endurance Challenge in Midleton.

On the triathlon scene, our club members have been extremely busy with many achieving great results in a variety of events. Well done also to the Half Marathon crew who took part in the Dingle race last Saturday, one of the most scenic races in the province.

Tuesday Club
The Tuesday Club returns on Tuesday September 23rd with a guest speaker. A full programme of events is due to be announced on the day for the Autumn/Winter season.


Community Games
The Ballintotis Community Games committee met last week to outline plans for the next few months, with again plenty of varied events to look forward to including art, tennis and athletics. The group hope to host an Art Exhibition early next month – more information to follow shortly. In the meantime anybody willing to assist in organising or supervising existing or new activities is asked to contact Siobhan Cashman 087-2772639.

Fr Sean Corkery
Finally we bid farewell and wish all the best to Fr Sean Corkery as he moves on from Midleton Parish to take up his new role. Fr Sean celebrated many masses in our local Church and was always very welcome in our area. He visited our Church on Friday last for First Friday Mass.

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7/7/14

Trip To Booley House
The Ballintotis Community Alert Group have organised a trip to the Booley House in Ballyduff County Waterford on July 23rd. A similar venture a few years back proved a great success and thus there is plenty of interest this time around. Already the bus is filling up quickly with just limited availability. If you wish to book your seat please call 087 6433948 without delay.

“School’s Out”
It’s holiday time at Ballinjtots NS but whilst teachers and pupils are away, a major project is being undertaken. Work has commenced on the new All Weather Playing Pitch which replaces the existing grass surface. This facility will be a major boost to the children as it will allow constant access regardless of groud conditions. It is hoped to have the project completed by late August.

Meantime it was a very busy end to the school year for all pupils, with tours, sports days, matches and and various special guests ensuring a real summer feel. The Active Week just before the holidays proved a major success as pupils participated in a wide range of sporting and recreational activities. A designated day was also set aside when all pupils gathered at the Church Car Park and walked to school. No doubt this all action week will be repeated again next year.

The end of year school Mass was celebrated by Mons. Goold and featured presentations to the Sixth Class pupils who are leaving Ballintotis after 8 years and are now preparing to move to Secondary School. We send our best wishes to Zara Bowles, Carla Cosgrave, Ellen Harty, Molly Kearney,Cayleigh Fitzgerald, Kate McCarthy, Niamh Molloy, Abbie Moran, Aisling Murphy, Aoife O’Neill,James J. Butler, Darragh Cashman, Dáire Coughlan, Brendan Jalil, Seán Duggan, Claude Mahony,Matthew O’Connor & Daniel Walsh and wish them every success and happiness in the future.

Fit4Life Club
The Ballintotis Fit4Life Club continues to thrive with new faces arriving at the weekly training sessions each Tuesday. This week, there was a change in plan with a group travelling to Carrigtwohill to run the 5K route which will be used for next Wednesday’s Carrigtwohill 5K which is based at Barryscourt Castle. A big representation from the club is expected to take part in this race. The locals were very well represented in the recent Shanagarry 5 Mile Road Race where some outstanding times were clocked up by many of the members.

This week members are also expected to be out in force on Thursday in the Youghal 4 Mile Race which has an 8pm start. The race takes place over a number of laps around the seaside town and this should guarantee a great atmosphere at the venue. After the aforementioned Carrigtwohill 5K on Wednesday, the Ballycotton Series continues in Churchtown South on the following Thursday.

Remember new members are always welcome to join the club with weekly runs on Tuesdays and again on Sunday mornings. With numerous races as well as the late summer club BBQ there is plenty of activities to enjoy - see Ballintotis Fit4Life face book page for further information.

Wedding Bells
Finally this week we say congratulations to Barra O’ Tuama from Ballintotis and his bride Amy Long who were married at St Colman’s Church in Ballintotis on Friday last. It has been a memorable few weeks for Barra as he recently also won a Munster Intermediate Hurling Championship medal as part of the Cork team that defeated Tipperary in the decider. Cork play Galway in the All Ireland Semi Final later in the season.

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8/6/14

Sciath Na Scol
A gallant Ballintotis team were just edged out by Ballincurrig NS in t he recent Sciath Na Scol Hurling Finals. The locals looked like they had secured another famous win until a late, late goal turned a two points lead into a one point defeat. Commiserations to all of the panel who can be very proud of their great efforts and congratulations to Ballincurring who achieved their first success in the competition.

Best Of Luck Martin
We extend our very best wishes to local man Martin Condon from Ballintotis who competes in the Special Olympics Ten Pin Bowling Competition this weekend.

Community Games
Community Games events locally have now been completed for the current season with all activities taking a summer break until September. Events will resume again in early autumn with an Art Exhibition which will show case the wonderful work of the local Ballintotis group. This occasion will also double up as a Registration Day for the new season. In the meantime anybody willing to assist in the running of activities next season is asked to contact local Chairperson Siobhan Cashman on 087-2772639. In order to continue with Community Games locally more help is urgently required from parent sin various activities

School Tours
Scohool tours have been order of the past week or so in Ballintotis with an end of year feel to events as pupils and teachers look forward to the summer break. Leahy’s Open Farm, Ballyhass Lakes and The Mardyke Arena were amongst the locations chosen by the locals for this year’s tours.

Meantime the annual end of year Mass will take place on Thursday week June 19th at 11am in St Colman’s Church. All Parents welcome to attend.

Fit4Life Club
It has been been a very busy period with road races and triathlons aplenty in various parts of the county and province. Patrick Troy, who had a great sub 19 minute run led home a very large Ballintotis contingent in the recent Kilcredan 5K Race, an event which even saw some members cylce to and from the venue as well as running the race. Ideal preparation then ahead of last weekend’s Dingle Triathlon which saw a huge Ballintotis brigade compete in this very testing event. Compliments to all involved on their respective performances

Meantime back on the roads the East Ferry 5 mile race took place last Friday. Here Dominic Barry and Sylvie O’Mahony enjoyed good runs over a scenic course. Last week also the Cork City Marathon take place and we say to those from the club that took part in any part of it. However, special mention must go to Vicky Murphy and her father John who took part in the full Marathon. Heartiest congratulations to you both.

Amongst the upcoming local races on a packed summer diary is the Clonpriest 5K which has been rescheduled to Wednesday next June 18th at 7.30pm.

However this week, there are numerous choices including the Glanmire 4 Mile this evening (Wednesday) and the a new race over 6K in Carrigtwohill tomorrow evening. Also tomorrow the Coolagown 5K takes place near Castlelyons.

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May 2014

Sciath Na Scol
A gallant Ballintotis team were just edged out by Ballincurrig NS in t he recent Sciath Na Scol Hurling Finals. The locals looked like they had secured another famous win until a late, late goal turned a two points lead into a one point defeat. Commiserations to all of the panel who can be very proud of their great efforts and congratulations to Ballincurring who achieved their first success in the competition.

Best Of Luck Martin
We extend our very best wishes to local man Martin Condon from Ballintotis who competes in the Special Olympics Ten Pin Bowling Competition this weekend.

Community Games
Community Games events locally have now been completed for the current season with all activities taking a summer break until September. Events will resume again in early autumn with an Art Exhibition which will show case the wonderful work of the local Ballintotis group. This occasion will also double up as a Registration Day for the new season. In the meantime anybody willing to assist in the running of activities next season is asked to contact local Chairperson Siobhan Cashman on 087-2772639. In order to continue with Community Games locally more help is urgently required from parent sin various activities

School Tours
Scohool tours have been order of the past week or so in Ballintotis with an end of year feel to events as pupils and teachers look forward to the summer break. Leahy’s Open Farm, Ballyhass Lakes and The Mardyke Arena were amongst the locations chosen by the locals for this year’s tours.

Meantime the annual end of year Mass will take place on Thursday week June 19th at 11am in St Colman’s Church. All Parents welcome to attend.

Fit4Life Club
It has been been a very busy period with road races and triathlons aplenty in various parts of the county and province. Patrick Troy, who had a great sub 19 minute run led home a very large Ballintotis contingent in the recent Kilcredan 5K Race, an event which even saw some members cylce to and from the venue as well as running the race. Ideal preparation then ahead of last weekend’s Dingle Triathlon which saw a huge Ballintotis brigade compete in this very testing event. Compliments to all involved on their respective performances

Meantime back on the roads the East Ferry 5 mile race took place last Friday. Here Dominic Barry and Sylvie O’Mahony enjoyed good runs over a scenic course. Last week also the Cork City Marathon take place and we say to those from the club that took part in any part of it. However, special mention must go to Vicky Murphy and her father John who took part in the full Marathon. Heartiest congratulations to you both.

Amongst the upcoming local races on a packed summer diary is the Clonpriest 5K which has been rescheduled to Wednesday next June 18th at 7.30pm.

However this week, there are numerous choices including the Glanmire 4 Mile this evening (Wednesday) and the a new race over 6K in Carrigtwohill tomorrow evening. Also tomorrow the Coolagown 5K takes place near Castlelyons.

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12/5/14

School Funday Sunday
All is set for next Sunday’s Funday at Ballintotis National School which is organised by the Parent’s Association.

Events get underway at approximately 10.45am with the Sponsored Fancy Dress Walk. All proceeds from the walk will go towards the new all-weather pitch. The walk covers a distance of 2 miles and will commence following the conclusion of 10am Mass. Afterwards all involved are invited to assemble at the School, where a host of games and activities will be organised. Tea, coffee and light refreshments will also be on sale.

More info on Sunday’s events can be got by calling Kara Reilly on 087 9177674 or Noreen Cashman on 086-2461090.

Ballintotis Girls Win Mini 7’s In Style
Congratulations to the Ballintotis National School team who won the Camogie Mini 7’s Competition recently. The locals had looked very impressive when wining the qualifying round and continued that from with 4 straight wins on Finals day to leave them as undisputed champions.

Pupils Jennie Ruddle, Niamh Molloy and Zara Bowles penned this account of the day’s events for Midleton & District News.

“On the bus on the way to the match we were all a bit nervous and hoping we’d do well. When we arrived we put on our jerseys and went out and did warm ups with Mr.Allen. After our warm ups our first match was against Rathduff and wasn’t very challenging. We beat them 2-5 to 0-0.

Our next match was against Dungourney which we knew would be a very tough game. After 14 minutes of hard play, we came out on top and beat them 2-1 to 1-2. After our 20 minute break we had to play our next match which was against Carrignavar which we knew we had to win. It was a very tough game but at the end score was 1-4 to 1-2 to us. Our next was our last match which we had to win the win the whole competition.

We were against Ballygarvan we found out during the game it wasn’t very challenging . The score was 2-4 to 0-0. When we finished that match we were presented with the winning medals after that we got the bus back to school and told everyone the great news. We were all so happy and excited that we won and everyone was very happy for us.”

The players on the girls mini sevens team were: Aisling Harty, Aisling Murphy ,Aoife ‘O Neill , Carla Cosgrave , Elena Kelleher , Ellen Hayes Nally , Emily ‘O Callaghan.

Results:

Dungourney:1-2 Ballintotas: 2-1

Rathduff:0-0 Ballintotas: 2-5

Carrignavar:1-2 Ballintotas:1-4

Ballgaravan:0-0 Ballintotas:2-4

Congrats Zara
A special word of congratulations is extended to Zara Bowles who has been selected to play on the Cork Primary Schools team that will meet their Waterford counterparts at half time in Sunday week’s Munster Hurling Championship match between the counties at Semple Stadium, Thurles.

Sciath Na Scol Final
The good news story line continued when the Ballintotis Sciath Na Scol hurling team defeated Ballynoe NS in last week’s concluding group game and thus booked their place in the Final later this month. Opposition on the day will be provided by Ballincurrig NS who defeated Ballintotis earlier in the season, but no doubt the locals will make a big effort to reverse that outcome. The exact time and venue for the Final has yet to be confirmed.

Tuesday Club
Ballintotis Tuesday Club returned recently to an outstanding cookery demonstration by Susie O’Connor. Susie who trained in Ballymaloe cookery school cooked up some tasty dishes, including Vegetable soup and wholemeal brown bread, two main course dishes of Chicken & Bacon Caserole, and a Fish pie, a gluten & dairy free Orange Cake and a fresh fruit meringue & rhubarb dessert. Susie demonstrated how to make nutritious meals and everyone agreed that they all tasted delicious.

On Sunday week last a bus load of members left Ballintotis for the Cork City Hall for the semi-final of the over 60’s talent competition. A very entertaining evening of high class talent was enjoyed by all.

Our programme for the reminder of the season is as follows-

May 18th Araglin Afternoon Tea Dance Sunday 2pm –5pm
Members must book for this trip as places are limited.

May 27th Knitting project with Ballintotas School children.

June 10th Flowers Tubs & Baskets with Ted Murphy followed by Musical and a singsong.

Ballintotis Community Alert Summer Tour in June details will be announced later.

Fit4Life
There is plenty of race action to occupy the minds and bodies of the Ballintotis Fit4Life Club members this week. Training is as usual each Tuesday. On this Wednesday the Pfizer’s 6 Mile event takes place in Ringaskiddy, the Cheetah Run over 4 Miles (pre entry only) is taking place in Fota Wildlife Park on Thursday, whilst next Sunday sees the Emer Casey Memorial 10K begin at 1.30pm in Youghal. On Thursday of next week, May 22nd, the Ballycotton Summer Series gets underway in Ballyandreen.

Well done to the club members who took part in the recent Darkness Into Light Run, Tour de Cure Cylce, event and other recent adventure races.

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20/4/14

McCarthy makes it 5-in-a-row as
Ballintotis Race Attracts A Record Breaking 996 Runners

 

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6/4/14

Road Race Update
The Road Race committee are holding their next meeting on this Wednesday at 8.30pm in the Community Centre. A lot of work has been done to date but much more remains to be done before race day which is just a week away. The organisers are still looking for the following so please if you know anyone get them to contact us ASAP.

Extension leads – long/short – contact Anthony on 087 2328874. Please drop all these leads to the Community Centre on this Thursday evening.

Catering – sandwiches/cakes/biscuits – contact Jean O’ Gorman on 086 3319101

Stewards – We still need a few more stewards/race officials. If you know anyone that you think would be interested please contact the race organisers on 086 8778182.

Spot Prizes – Bring them along to Fit4Life training on this Thursday evening,

Stewards Meeting
A garda meeting with all stewards will be held in the Ballintotis Community Centre on Monday 14th April at 8.30pm. High-Viz jackets etc will be provided.

Pre Race Run
Members of Ballintotis Fit4Life will be joined by our friends and colleagues from Midleton AC for the traditional pre race run around the course on this Thursday. All runners are asked to assemble in the Community Centre at 7pm. Light refreshments will be served afterwards.

Work Nights
Monday and Tuesday next week from 6pm onwards have been designated as work nights in advance of the big day. Anybody who is willing to lend a hand for any period of time long or short would be most welcome.

Committee Meeting
Apart from the aforementioned stewards meeting, a final race committee meeting will be held at 9pm on Monday evening April 14th in the Community Centre. All members are asked to attend.

Race Day Arrangements
Entry desks for the race will be open on next Tuesday evening week from 5pm to 7pm at Ballintotis Community Centre and from 1pm onwards on Wednesday. We urge as many people as possible to avail of early entry.
The organising committee ask that all attending the race follow the advice of the gardai and stewards in relation to car parking etc. There will be no parking on the main N25 Road.

Meantime there will be a one way system in operation entering the Community Centre for registration and following this participants will be asked to move to the Church Car Park where they will receive their t shirt immediately after entering. Refreshments and prize giving will be based at the Community Centre and adjacent marquee afterwards.

Graded time zones will also be in place at the start line and the organisers urge all participants in the interests of health and safety and for their own enjoyment to please take up your position in the correct time zone. Your co-operation will in fact greatly add to everybody’s enjoyment of the race.

Walk Begins At 6.30pm
Participants in the walk should note it will begin at 6.30pm sharp and follow the race route, but in the opposite direction. Entries for the walk will be taken from 5.30pm in a designated area outside adjacent to the Church. Refreshments for walkers will be served in the Community Centre from 7.50pm onwards. Walkers will receive a t shirt when the enter prior to the event, whilst they will also receive bottled water on completion of the walk.

Best Wishes Sarah
Away from race news, we send our best wishes to Sarah Fitzgerald a 5th class pupil in Ballintotis, who has once again qualified for the All Ireland Teen Talent competition which takes place on Easter Weekend. Before that Sarah has a busy few days as she plays the lead role of Annie at Aghada Community Centre in their latest on stage production.

Scaith Na Scol Mini Sevens
Congratsto the Ballintotis NS Girls Sevens team who enjoyed a superb success story at last Friday’s regional competition in Killeagh. The Ballintotis girls won all 4 games in impressive fashion and now go forward to participate in the next phase of competition. Well done also to the boys team who won 2 and lost 2 of their 4 games.

Tuesday Club
It’s a busy week for the Tuesday Club as they follow Tuesday’s visit by their friends from Araglin with a trip to the Everyman Theatre on this Friday evening to view John B .Keane’s highly acclaimed play “The Matchmaker”

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Road Race Meeting
The Ballintotis Road Race Committee will host a meeting on this Thursday evening at 8.30pm in the Community Centre. There is lots to be done in the countdown to our race which will take place on Wednesday April 16th. So if you are willing to help in any way please come along on this Thursday. All race enquiries should be directed to 086-8778182.

Ballycotton 10
All roads lead to Ballycotton on Sunday for the 37th annual ‘10’ miler. This year for the first time ever, the name of Ballintotis Fit4Life Club appears on the race day programme as over 30 runners from the club are set to take part. There are also a number of other locals who are affiliated to either Midleton or Youghal AC that are also part of the local Ballintotis training group. We wish all involved every success on the big day. Remember to arrive early and with uncertainty regarding parking arrangements due to the recent bad weather, the message is to please follow the advice of gardai and stewards who will be on duty.

Meantime, additional help is required in relation to stewarding on the day. Please consider lending a hand if you are not taking part. Contact Tom Hartnett on 086-2386390 if you can assist.

Well done to all the Ballintotis crew who took part in last Sunday’s Cork County Road Championships which were hosted by Midleton AC. Michelle Forest was the leading Ballintotis Fit4Life Club member home in the ladies race, whilst Tom O’Neill was the first clubman home.

Variety Concert on March 28th
All roads lead to Ballintotis Community Centre on March 28th where a fantastic evening of quality entertainment is guaranteed for all the family. An impressive array of bands, choirs, musicians, vocalists and performers from the region are expected on stage for this unique event. This concert was held at the centre for the first time in March 2013 and was highly acclaimed by those in attendance. BACC are delighted to host this concert once again in 2014. More information will be provided closer to the date. Your support will be much appreciated. Tickets for the concert will be on sale from later this week.

World Book Celebrated
World Book Day will be celebrated in style at Ballintotis School this Thursday as pupils will dress up in a character costume from one of their favourite books. This ha something of an ongoingr tradition in the school and always generates plenty of fun amongst the children.

Confirmation Class
Meantime pupils from Sixth Class continued their preparation programme for Confirmation on Monday evening last. The class will meet for the next few weeks at 7.30pm at St Colman’s Church as they continue to countdown to Confirmation Day on Thursday May 1st.

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7/2/2014

Road Race Meeting
The Ballintotis Road Race Committee host a meeting on this Thursday evening at 8.30pm in Ballintotis Community Centre. It’s just two months away from this year’s race which goes ahead on Wednesday April 16th at 8pm. A lot of work is to be done in the meantime, so all of last year’s committee are asked to come along with newcomers are also urged to attend. All comments, suggestions etc are also most welcomed by the race committee.

The search for sponsorship is already underway so if you anybody who would like to help out in any way, the committee would be delighted to hear from you.

Fit4Life
Of course, the majority of the Ballintotis Fit4Life Club hope to be on the start line for the big race and it’s great to see many new members joining the club in recent weeks with the ambition to take part in the race. Membership for the year is just 20 euro per person and 1 euro per person thereafter at Club Nights attended.

The local training group plan to run the Ballycotton course on next Sunday morning, whilst some more members may be taking part in the Carrigaline ‘5’ Mile Race.

Annual General Meeting
It’s now just a year since the Ballintotis Fit4Life Club was first officially formed and thus the Annual General Meeting is on the immediate horizon. The meeting will be held on Tuesday next February 18th, commencing at 8.30pm in the Community Centre. All members and intending members are urged to attend. At this stage we say well done to officers, Sean Leahy, Trish Daly, Susan Fitzgerald, Noreen Cashman and Diane Broderick and the committee for their great work over the past twelve months. Of course, hoping to see all of them involved again this year!

Fleet Feet Walkers
The second Fleet Feet Walking Group term of classes begins on Wednesday evenings later this month. Now is the time to book your place on the course which has proved such a great success to date. Please contact Deirdre Carr on 085-1418485. These classes are supported by both the HSE and Cork Sports Partnership.

Community Games
Community Games activity continues this week with SpikeBall being held in the Community Centre from 2.45pm to 3.45pm on Thursday. Please note, as with all Ballintotis Community Games activities, it’s by pre registration only.

GAA Celebrations
There were plenty of GAA celebrations locally as the Kiltha Og GAA Social took place on Friday night at Castlemartyr Resort and Midleton G.A.A feted their county winning teams at Midleton Park Hotel on Saturday night. There was a strong Ballintotis representation at both functions.

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3/2/14

Pilates Returns
Matt Chojan Certified Pilates Instructor returns to Ballintotis Community Centre next Tuesday evening February 11th to begin a new 6 week course. Matt who is also a physiotherapist and personal trainer will host his classes between 7.30pm and 8.30pm each Tuesday. To book your place, please call him on 087-2150946. See also www.mattpilates.com.

Fleet Feet
The Fleet Feet Walking Group has proved a huge success since it was introduced last month each Wednesday evening from 7.45pm to 8.45pm. In fact the class was overly subscribed and thus a follow up has been confirmed to commence later this month. To secure you place please contact Deirdre Carr, the local co-ordinator.

Fit4Life
The Fit4Life Club members who are participating in the Ballycotton ‘10’ brought their preparation further up to speed on Sunday morning last when they had a trial run around the famous course. Almost 20 members abandoned their Sunday morning “lie in” plans to assemble at the start line at 8.30pm. The race takes place on Sunday March 9th.

Meantime next Sunday the Janssen ‘4’ Mile Race will be held at 11am in Little Island. The entry desks will be open from 9.30am at Little Island Community Centre.

The Carrigaline 5 Miler takes place at 11am on Sunday week 16th, with a new 5K in Ballygiblin, near Mitchelstown on the following Sunday February 23rd. Entries for the Mallow 10 Miler in Mid March are now closed having reached the 1,200 limit.

Just a reminder that membership of Ballintotis Fit4Life Club for 2014 is just 20 euro and is payable on this Thursday at training.

St Patrick’s Day
Finally, St Patrick’s Day is coming on the distant horizon. Organisers of the Midleton Parade have approached groups in the Ballintotis area to see if they wish to enter a float in the parade. Food for thought maybe, if anybody is interested in organising it.

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17/1/2014

Tuesday Club Returns Next Week
Members of the Ballintotis Tuesday Club should note that activities resume following the winter break on next Tuesday 28th of January from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. It’s the usual format with plenty to look forward to over the next few months, with guests aplenty and lots of activities. The club has grown considerably in numbers over the past year or so and now boasts a regular attendance of over 30 members at the fortnightly get-togethers. New members are welcome to join. Remember the club is open to all Over 50’s.

Community Games
Table Tennis is the latest sport to be added to the Community Games diary with the first get together scheduled for Monday next January 27th. All those who signed up at Registration Night are welcome to attend and will be contacted in advance by the co-ordinators. Meantime the next Art Group gathering takes place immediately after school on Thursday February 6th with the next Spikeball group assembling on the following Thursday at the same time.

A.G.M.
Before that the very important matter of the Community Games A.G.M is scheduled for next Tuesday January 28th at 8pm in the Community Centre. All parents whose children are taking part are asked to attend and urged to get involved to ensure the continuation of Community Games in Ballintotis.

School News
In preparation for Confirmation all 6th class pupils and their parents attended an Enrolment Ceremony on Saturday last, January 18th at the 7.30pm Mass in Holy Rosary Church. A follow up Commitment Ceremony will take place at 7.30pm Mass on March 29th.

Meantime, the next "Do this in Memory" Mass is on the Sunday next 26th January in St. Colman’s Church Ballintotis at 10.00am. This programme is for pupils preparing for First Holy Communion and their parents.The first Confessions for second class will be held in St. Colman’s Church, on Wednesday 19th February 2014 at 7pm.

Sr. Claire Fox, Cloyne Diocesan Religious Adviser will visit the school on Friday 31st January.

Fit4Life Club News
Sunday morning was busy for many of the club who assembled for their usual 9am run as the countdown begins to gather momentum ahead the big 10 milers in Dungarvan and Ballycotton. Meantime a few more of the local crew opted to take part in the FMC ‘4’ Mile Race in Little Island.

Training takes place again on this Thursday evening. Remember annual membership of Ballintotis Fit4Life Club is now due and can be paid to Diane Broderick at training – it’s 20 euro membership and 1 euro per club night thereafter.

The BHAA Road Races for 2014 began with the aforementioned FMC 4 Miler in Little Island. Just to confirm you can enter these races individually at a cost of 8 euro per event. However if you are a member of a BHAA team, you pay 10 euro at the start and then 5 euro thereafter. A BHAA team is a team representing a company – as Ballintotis Area Community Council is a limited company, last year we entered a Ballintotis CC team (which can have any amount of members) Membership is now due at a cost of 10 euro. Only registered runners can win individual or team prize sin these BHAA races.

Please contact Susan Fitzgerald (team secretary) by if you wish join. The next race is also in Little Island on Sunday week. Please note this is totally optional and not to be confused with the Ballintotis Fit4Life Club membership.

The voting is also open again for the best races of 2013 – please log onto the running in Cork blog and cast your vote.

On a nostalgic note, 2 years ago last Thursday the local running group gathered for the very first time in the Community Centre, 3 months ahead of the Ballintotis ‘4’ of 2012. Less than a year ago, the club was officially formed. It’s worth noting that in the stats produced ahead of the Ballycotton ‘10’ we have 32 participants, the 12th largest club representation.

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27/12/13

Lap of the Lake Cancelled
The Lap of the Lake event scheduled for 27/12/13 has been cancelled due to Met Eireann's Red Weather Alert.

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25/7/13

Road Closures For Car Rally
A big sporting weekend in prospect locally as the Imokilly Motor Club host a 1 Day Car Rally on Saturday. A number of roads in the Ballintotis area will be closed from early morning to facilitate an event that will also have stages in the Cloyne and Ladysbridge districts. Residents and visitors to the area are asked to please follow the advice of the stewards who will be on duty throughout the day.

Fit4Life BBQ
Friday August 16th has been confirmed as the date for the Ballintotis Fit4Life Club Summer BBQ which will take place at the Community Centre in Ballintotis. Advanced booking is required. Bookings and payment should be made to either Diane Broderick or Noreen Cashman at training on Tuesdays. The cost per person is 10 euro. This event is open to members of the Fit4Life Club and partners. At present the new Ballintotis Club has close on 90 members registered with the Athletics Association of Ireland.

Upcoming Races
Meantime on the race scene, many of our members will be in Churchtown South on this Thursday evening for the third leg of the Ballycotton Summer Series. The ‘5’ Mile route takes in a two lap course. Those who participate in all 4 races of the series will receive a souvenir plaque following the final in Ballycotton on August 22nd.

On Monday next July 29th the rescheduled Carrigtwohill 5K Race will be held with an 8pm start. Later in the week there is also the Novartis 5K in Ringaskiddy on Wednesday (31st) and the inaugural Conna 5K on Thursday (1st). Both races begin at 8pm. Many of our local club members are also looking forward to taking part in the Cloyne 5K on Wednesday August 7th.

As always our members have been busy competing in various activities. Well doneto Susan Fitzgerald and Trish Daly who completed an Adventure race in Limerick recently and to Dave Treacy who completed a seven hour charity cycle on Saturday last from Cork City to Allihies in the extreme west of the county. Congrats to Sylvie O’Mahony who won third prize in his category in last Friday’s Donoughmore 7 Mile Race. All the aforementioned events were made extremely difficult due to the soaring temperatures.

Best Wishes Martin
Best wishes are extended to Martin Enright from Ballinascartha who is looking forward to competing in the Mr Universe Body Building Championships in America next month. Martin took the top prize in his category in last year’s World Championships. We will have further coverage in future issues in advance of Martin’s departure for the U.S

 

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18/7/13

New members of the Ballintotis Fit4Life Club pictured at last week’s IPS/Garda 5K Race in Cork city. Many of the group were running in their first ever race.

Car Rally
Just a reminder regarding the Imokilly Motor Club Rally which is taking place in Ballintotis on Saturday week. The one day event will also have stages in both Cloyne and Ladysbridge areas and will feature some of the top names in the sport. Anybody willing to assist in stewarding for this big sporting occasion is asked to contact Wesley Daly in Ballintotis.

Fit4Life Club
The Ballintotis Fit4Life committee are palnning to host a summer Barbecue for members and partners early next month. Full details will be confirmed following this week’s committee meeting.

Members of the club have been busy in recent weeks competing in a number of races at various venues. Last Wednesday was a special evening for some of the club’s newest members who travelled to take part in the IPS/Garda 5K race in Cork city. Congratulations are sent to all our crew on their respective debut runs. No doubt the race is the first of many for the crew who are now part of a club that has over 80 members.

In Youghal on Thursday evening, our club was also well supported in the new 4 Mile race, with several good performances being recorded over the lively 3 lap course. This Wednesday evening it is anticipated that a large number of runners from the group will take part in the Carrigtwohill 5K race which has an 8pm start. Race entries will be taken from early evening in the grounds of Barryscourt Castle.

Next week all roads lead to Churchtown South for the third leg of the Ballycotton Summer Series.

Finally, a reminder that the our training group depart from Ballintotis Community Centre each Tuesday evening at 7.15pm sharp.

Congratulations Lisa and James
Congrats to Lisa and James Cooney who travelled to Wimbledon for the Men’s Singles Final having won a photo competition. Full coverage of this story is featured on the home page.

Community Centre Bookings
Finally a reminder that both the Main Hall and Meeting Room in the Community Centre are available to book by clubs, groups and organisations for the autumn winter season.

It’s certainly all happening at Ballintotis Community Centre in recent months with more new activities to follow. Regular weekly activities include Teen and Adult Handaball on Sunday, Seams Apart Sewing Group and Zumba Dancing with Deirdre Sisk on Monday, Junior Tennis Classes and the Fit4Life Group on Tuesday, Primary Schools Handball on Wednesday, Pilates with Orla McGovern on Thursday and the Bumble Bee Drama Group on Saturday. There are also a number of groups holding meetings and workshops at the venue on a regular basis. The Community Centre is in it’s short life span is proving an extremely popular location for both regular and one off events. Remember with full internet access, the centre now is an ideal venue for meetings and business gatherings.

Enquiries with regard to booking the hall and/or meeting room should be made to 086-3319101 or by email to bookings@ballintotis.com

 

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Ballintotis Claim Hurling Win After Cracking Contest

Ballintotis National School maintained their excellent recent record in Sciath Na Scoil Competition when winning the 'Hurling 8 Final' after a cracking contest at Pairc Ui Rinn, which saw Dylan Murphy score two outstanding late points to clinch victory.

The final score line of 3-5 to 3-3 indicates the nature of a contest which produced some fine passages of hurling and excellent play by both teams. On a blustery day, wind advantage was always going to be a key factor and Ballintotis had to battle back from a 5 points interval deficit to fashion a merited victory in the second half with the aid of the wind.

The game began at a lively pace as both teams showed their quality, sharing four points. A super reaction save by Ballintotis goalkeeper Eoin Cashman denied Ballynoe their opening goal, but their first green flag arrived in the fifth minute courtesy of Thomas O’Donnell. Unfortunately for Ballintotis two more Ballynoe goals followed before the break to help establish that five points advantage.

Meantime, at the other end of the field Ballintotis produced plenty of scoring chances as regular goal getters Liam Franklin and Cleeva Motherway in the inside forward line tried their utmost to find the target. When their only goal of the half arrived it was from the stick of inspiring team captain Michael Kelly who ghosted into the full forward line, following some fine approach play on the right wing. It meant the sides changed ends with Ballynoe 3-2 to 1-3 ahead.

Team boss Jerry Smyth and right hand man Sean Murphy had Ballintotis fired up for a big second half performance. Although they shot 3 wides soon after the resumption, the signs were there that their constant pressure might eventually pay dividends. Driven on by their excellent half back duo of David Lawton and Conor Whyte and visibly lifted by Eoin Mitchell’s excellence at midfield the scores eventually flowed. Ciara Barry’s splendidly taken goal began the comeback and although she had to retire through injury soon after, substitute Philip Kelleher also proved very effective.

With Ballynoe keeping their noses in front through a single second half point, as time ticked on it appeared as if another Ballintotis goal would be required to swing the match. Appropriately it came courtesy of the silken skills of Michael Kelly who made the most of his opportunity following another weaving run.

Level pegging at this point (3-3 each) and certainly ‘heart in the mouth’ stuff by both sets of vociferous fans. With the ever consistent Michael Cosgrave producing another big defensive display ably assisted by newcomer Jack Bowles, Ballintotis were in no mood to concede. Enter Dylan Murphy at the other end, the towering half forward who has had a great campaign held his nerve twice in quick succession to win the day for Ballintotis.

A famous win against a gallant Ballynoe outfit and a fitting finale for the entire Ballintotis squad and coaches who put a huge effort into both this season’s hurling and football campaigns.

Team – Eoin Cashman, Jack Bowles, Michael Cosgrave, David Lawton, Conor Whyte, Michael Kelly, Eoin Mitchell, Ciara Barry, Dylan Murphy, Cleeva Motherway and Liam Franklin.Sub used: Philip Kelleher for Ciara Barry (injured 2^nd half)Subs – Shane O’Brien, Eoin Hennessy, Nicholas Kelleher, Ciaran Newlands, Jack Knowles, Luke Hayes Nally, Carrie McEvoy and Megan Murphy.

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The Life of St. Paul
On Sunday 24th May a pageant depicting  - the major events  of St. Paul's life was re-enacted at  Ballintotis Church grounds.  The natural scenic setting of the Church and Lough Aderra lake enhanced this unique presentation.  The idyllic weather conditions afforded the cast of  56, Midleton Brass & Reed Band, Ballintotis Church Choir, Midleton Parish Choir, IMP Choir, St. Mary's High School Choir, St. Briget's N.S. Choir, Ballintotis N.S. and a large congregation  the ultimate enjoyment.

The event marked the current year of dedication to St. Paul and depicted such scenes as - the introduction of Paul as a student of Gamaliel in Jerusalem, - Stephens's Trial before the Jeruslem Sanhedrin, - Paul's remarkable conversion on the road to Damascus, his baptism by Ananias on the lakeshore, -  Paul's preaching in Jerusalem in the company of Barnabas, and the dramatic curing of the cripple in Lystra, - the Proclamation of the Council of Jerusalem in 50 A.D., Paul's subsequent missionary journey by boat (on Loughaderra lake) to spread the good news, - ending with his letter to Timothy while  a prisoner in Rome.

The colourful and exotic costumes reflected the era, created an atmosphere, defined character  and enhanced the performance. The musical arrangements and the narrator's deliverance delicately balanced the linkage and continuity. 

The rehearsals of a dedicated and committed cast, the amplification and sound effects by Austin Brosnan and the direction, guidance and finesse of Séan Aherne guaranteed a successful and truly magnificent and  entertaining performance.

Pictured during a break in rehearsals are The Elders:
Vincent McCarthy, Ger Cott, Flan O'Meara and Dominic Knowles

Garda Youth Awards
Fergal Duffy, Stumphill was a worthy winner of a Garda Youth Award at a reception in the Midleton Park Hotel on 8/12/2008 last. Fergal was nominated by Ballintotis Community Council for his courage and determination in overcoming physical disability, his outstanding sporting success and for his contribution the community in his sports coaching and helping others with disabilities. There were nine other winners from as far apart as Mallow, Fermoy and Cobh. One of those was a group of young people from the Midleton-based East Cork Friends of the Mentally handicapped who selflessly give of their time to aid the running of the summer school in Midleton every year. John Barker accepted the award on behalf of the group. See photos of the awards ceremony on this site. The awards ceremony was temporarily halted by the surprise arrival of a special guest, actor Paschal Scott (aka Sergeant Dick O'Toole from Killinascully).


Rural Transport
The rural transport scheme came into operation in Ballintotis this recently, thanks principally to the great efforts of some of our community activists along with the governing body from ECAD.

The bus made it’s inaugural journey from Churchtown South, with pick ups on the way to Ballintotis en route to Midleton town. The scheme is in operation already in many parts of the country and nearby in the Avondhu area which covers other parts of East Cork it has proved a great success.

Well Done Jack 
Congratulations to Jack Knowles who was the winning captain of the Kiltha Og Under 8 team that recently won the Russell Rovers Under 8 hurling Blitz in Shanagarry.  Jack has been in great form all season scoring a number of crucial goals from his corner forward berth.  He was joined on the winning team by other locals Stephen Forde, Liam Rabbittee, Philip Kelleher, Nicholas Kelleher and Darragh Cashman. (See below for more on this story)

 

 Outstanding Win In Russell Rovers Under 8 Blitz

 

Kiltha Og players in celebratory mood following their win in the Russell Rovers Under 8 hurling blitz on Saturday last in Shanagarry.