Local country music singer Paudie Coffey has expressed his gratitude to the “Kerry Gang” following his appearance in the Grand Final of TG4’s Glór Tíre on Tuesday night.

The 26-year-old Beaufort man was met with a wave of support from fans who travelled to the live broadcast wearing Kerry GAA jerseys and carrying homemade banners featuring his face.

“The Kerry Gang will be one of my favourite memories from all this,” Paudie said following the result. “It was great to see them here, because it just helped me take the final as a normal gig, because these are the people who are normally at my gigs every weekend. When I see them, it basically calms my nerves, and that’s a good thing. I’m very lucky to have them.”

During the live final, Paudie delivered performances of the Kenny Rogers classic ‘The Gambler’ and Isla Grant’s ‘We’ll Meet Again My Friends’.

While the title of Glór Tíre Champion ultimately went to County Down singer Jordan McPolin, the experience has significantly boosted Paudie’s profile on a national level.

Despite the result, the Beaufort singer is confident that his career is only moving forward. “This certainly won’t be the end of the road,” he stated. “With Glór Tíre, I’ve gained huge experience. What we’re trying to build up and what we’re trying to get now are the big gigs.”

Excitement is building in Killarney as Ablefest returns on Sunday from 12pm to 4pm at the St Patrick’s Festival Hub at Beech Road Carpark.

Now in its second year, the inclusive festival is set to be bigger, brighter and bursting with even more fun, laughter and community spirit.

Ablefest is all about celebrating inclusion and creating a welcoming space for people of all abilities, along with their families, friends and supporters.

For four fun-filled hours the hub will come alive with music, creativity and plenty of opportunities to dance, play and make memories together.

From toe-tapping tunes to hands-on activities, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Among the highlights will be live entertainment, including a headline performance from Jake Carter and his band.

Festivalgoers can also enjoy a Silent Disco, drumming sessions, face painting, puppet shows and sensory-friendly spaces — ensuring that every visitor can join the fun in a way that suits them.

With so much happening, Ablefest promises magical moments around every corner and plenty of reasons to get into the festival groove.

The launch at Killarney Leisure Centre on Thursday was also a wonderful opportunity to shine a spotlight on the Kerry Stars athletes who will represent the county at the Special Olympics Summer Games in Dublin this June.

Luke Scollard from Scartaglen takes part in athletics, therapeutic horse riding and swimming with the Kerry Stars.

At the Summer Games he will compete in the 4K Shot Put and the 200m run, where he’ll be hoping to really throw down the gauntlet and sprint for success.

Joe Buckley from Faha is involved in athletics, basketball and soccer with the club. Joe will be taking to the track and field in Dublin where he will compete in the 100m sprint and mini javelin — proving he’s ready to go the distance and make his mark.

Caoimhe Brosnan from Kilcummin participates in athletics, basketball, soccer and swimming with the Kerry Stars.

At the Summer Games she will compete in the 25m freestyle and 25m backstroke, where she will undoubtedly make a splash for Kerry.

Sophie Twiss from Miltown enjoys therapeutic horse riding and swimming with the Kerry Stars. Sophie will also be competing in swimming at the Summer Games, taking part in two events as she prepares to dive into the action in Dublin.

The launch event highlighted not only the upcoming festival but also the incredible talent, determination and team spirit of the Kerry Stars athletes.

Their achievements perfectly capture the heart of what Ablefest is all about – participation, celebration and making sure everyone has their moment to shine.

As the countdown begins, organisers are encouraging everyone to come along, soak up the atmosphere and join the celebration.

For more information, log onto the St Patrick’s Day Festival website and click on Ablefest.