Matthew Cassidy, Harry McGrath, Frederick Gavigan and Jay O’Leary put a plan together and with the help of Mr Steven Gray plus many other members of the extended Clongowes community, produced a very enjoyable day at the K Club for all who took part.
The day started with beautiful blue skies and there wasn’t a cloud to be seen. The golfers were met by Transition Year students at the entrance, who brought their clubs around to the course and were then greeted inside by Matthew Cassidy and Andrew Matthews who signed them in. Afterwards, they proceeded upstairs for a quick pre-game meal and tea and coffee, before starting to the sound of a shotgun at 14.00.
When the dust had settled and the last putt dropped into the final hole, it emerged that Brian MacGoey’s team had retained the cup for the third year running. The day was rounded off with dinner in the main dining room where Mr Paul McCormack (Director of Studies, distinguished German teacher and TY co-ordinator in Clongowes) took charge of events as MC. He obviously relished his role and brought smiles of delight to all present before handed the microphone to Matthew Cassidy who gave an introduction to the evening.
Jack Moroney and Rory Morrin gave an excellent presentation and explained exactly how the funds raised would be used before the highlight of the day when the prizes were given out and the auction took place. The organising committee had worked tirelessly in the leading weeks to get some wonderful prizes and Andrew Matthews, Fred Gavigan and Brian MacHale presented them with style using some great videos. Brian MacGoey very generously donated his first prize to the auction pot, which raised a huge amount of money. Matthew Cassidy was our auctioneer for the night and the event raised a whopping €8,500.
Thanks to Rob Kearney and Tadhg Beirne for signing two Irish rugby jerseys and rugby balls which were also auctioned. A big thanks to Paul McVeigh for getting a number of signed prizes by golfers such as Rory McIlroy, Paul McGinley and Padraig Harrington. Thanks to our Prefect Mr Steven Gray, who guides us on everything we do for the Duck Push; the day would not have been possible without him. We would also like to thank Mr Paul McCormack, Mr David Nelson, Fr Barney McGuckian sj and all other staff members involved. The day worked very well because so many people gave generously of their time, energy and expertise and over €14,000 was raised in the end. Thank you!
Harry McGrath and Jack Moroney
