News
Kerry GAA stars on hand to launch May Festival at Racecourse
Live horse racing returns to Ireland’s most scenic track this May for the highly anticipated Killarney Races May Festival.
The three-day event blends top-tier racing with a vibrant social scene, offering something for seasoned punters, families, and visitors alike.
The season officially opens on Saturday, May 9 (12 noon start), a date that aligns perfectly with the Munster Football Final weekend. The sporting stakes are high for a bumper weekend in Killarney and if Kerry and Cork both progress through their respective semi-finals, A Kerry vs. Cork showdown will be fixed for Sunday May 10th in Killarney, positioning the racecourses opening Saturday fixture as the perfect curtain-raiser for a great weekend of sport in Killarney. The opening card features a feast of National Hunt racing headlined by sponsors TOTE, and racing action will be complemented by lively music from Nicole Lonergan and The Gallivanters.
On Wednesday evening just gone, stars from the Kerry GAA panel (pictured) were on hand to launch the Killarney races Locals’ Family Day, scheduled for Monday, May 11th (4.30pm start). Sponsored by Killarney Credit Union and the Killarney Town Retailers Association, this evening shifts the focus toward the local community. Children’s entertainment specialists ‘Time to Party’ and ‘The MACademy’ will host a dedicated family fun area, perfect for young families to get out on a spring evening and soak up the festive atmosphere. Accompanied by an adult ticket, all kids go free. Entertainment will include, bouncing castles, clowns, an interactive disco, carnival games and much more.
Speaking about the Locals Family Evening, sponsors Karena McCarthy of Killarney Credit Union said, "We are pleased to bring the community together for an action packed locals evening. The Credit Union is committed to supporting local initiatives, and this event is a perfect way for neighbours to gather and enjoy the fantastic festival atmosphere Killarney Racecourse offers."
William Sheahan, Chairman of the Killarney Town Retailers Association, who are also sponsoring the local’s day said, "Our members are always ready to support local, and we are delighted to support the Locals’ Family Day". From boutique fashion and fragrances to traditional butchers, footwear and pharmacies, Killarney retailers have an incredible amount to offer both residents and visitors, and we were delighted to come on board as a sponsor of the evening at Killarney Racecourse.
The festival concludes on Tuesday, May 12th (4.30pm start), with the Fexco Festival Finale. The final day pairs a high-quality flat racing card with some great live entertainment, ensuring the spring festival closes on it's usual high note.
Karl McCay, General Manager of Killarney Racecourse expressed his readiness for the season ahead: "We are eager to welcome the public back to the Killarney Races. Between the calibre of the racing, the community-focused family evening, and our entertainment lineup, we have curated a program that offers something for every attendee this May Festival."
Tickets are available for just €20 via the official website: www.killarneyracecourse.ie.
Eric Jenkinson wins camera club award with Dingle landscape
The stunning landscapes of Kerry continue to inspire members of the Killarney Camera Club, with this month’s themed competition, titled “Kerry Landscape,” producing a high standard of entries.
Following last week’s feature on the unrestricted category winner, Noel O’Neill, this week showcases the winning photograph in the Novice Category by Eric Jenkinson.
His striking photograph, titled “Wild Atlantic Way,” impressed the judges with its colour, composition, and sense of place. The image captures the rugged beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, featuring Clogher Beach in the foreground and the iconic Three Sisters landmarks in the background.
Eric’s success highlights his photographic talent and his appreciation of the county’s natural scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way coastline.
End of an era as Killarney dentist Brendan Coffey retires
It marks the end of an era for local dentistry as Brendan Coffey prepares to retire after a 38-year career in Killarney.
Brendan returned from England in 1988, buying a house on New Street from Paddy Doyle and converting it into the Killarney Dental Clinic. The practice officially opened its doors on Friday May 13, 1988.
“As I had started the surgery from scratch, I had no idea when or if my first patient would come,” Brendan said. “I didn’t have to wait long, my neighbour Johnny Healy from Healy’s shop in New Street arrived first thing and gave me my start.”
In a fitting completion of the circle, Johnny is booked in as Brendan’s final patient on Wednesday of this week.
Brendan thanked the community and his former colleagues. “The people of Killarney and all around have been the most wonderful, loyal, and friendly people to have met and have the privilege to treat for the last 38 years,” he said. “I would like to give special mention to my wife Brenda, who acted as a hugely popular practice manager for many years.”
In October 2022, Brendan’s son Jack and his wife Emma took over the practice before expanding the business to a state-of-the-art facility at the Reeks Gateway.
“I feel a huge sense of satisfaction and pride in what the practice has become,” Brendan added. “So, I will sign off by saying: easy on the sweets, give up the fags, and don’t eat for two hours.”
See next week’s Killarney Advertiser for a full story on Brendan’s career.
Eric Jenkinson wins camera club award with Dingle landscape
Eric Jenkinson wins camera club award with Dingle landscape The stunning landscapes of Kerry continue to inspire members of the...
End of an era as Killarney dentist Brendan Coffey retires
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