Kerry Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT) hosted the Mountain Rescue Ireland (MRI) Annual Meet at the Castlerosse Hotel over the weekend.

The three-day event brought together rescue personnel from across the country for a programme of technical talks, search demonstrations, and team-building exercises.

The weekend featured a range of specialist speakers, including renowned adventurer Karen Weekes and mountain running legend John Lenihan, who spoke about his career on the hills. Technical and safety insights were provided by Dr Jason Van Der Velde, specialising in emergency medicine, and Barry Dalby, who discussed advancements in mapping for search and rescue operations.

Local rescue history and recent operations were also highlighted during the conference. KMRT member Mike Sandover recounted the epic all-night rescue of Bill Collins from July 1967, while CEO John Hussey provided details on the team’s recent call-outs in treacherous weather conditions.

The event included practical sessions such as search demonstrations by SARDA (Search and Rescue Dog Association) and team-building activities led by Richard Morrison.

Antrim darts star Josh Rock has officially backed Killarney as the ideal location for a major European Tour event.

Speaking ahead of the Premier League’s return to Dublin this week, the World Cup winner identified Gleneagle as his top choice for a professional three-day tournament.

Currently, the PDC EuroTour features 48 of the world’s best players competing for a €250,000 prize fund across mainland Europe.

While Ireland has a long history of hosting the World Grand Prix, calls are growing for a multi-day event to return to the island to reflect the record nine Irish tour card holders currently on the circuit.

“There needs to be a EuroTour event on the island of Ireland,” Rock said. “If I had to host it anywhere, the only place I would put up is Gleneagle in Killarney. It’s a massive venue, and that’s where they hold the Killarney Darts Festival where all of us have played. It is a fantastic event.”