The All Ireland Overage Championships concluded with a weekend of thrilling matches, as competitors from across Ireland demonstrated skill, determination, and sportsmanship in both singles and doubles events. The tournament showcased the depth of talent in Irish racquetball, with athletes of all ages battling it out for glory. In the Men’s Singles, Johnny O’Keeney of Fermoy claimed the 30+ title, defeating Mark Murphy of O’Loughlins in a hard-fought final. Leigh O’Brien from Horeswood triumphed in the 40+ category, overcoming Michael Barnes of Arklow. Fermoy’s Noel O’Callaghan showcased his enduring prowess in the 50+ division, beating Don Lawlor of Clough/Moneenroe. Meanwhile, Arklow’s Jimmy Gannon emerged victorious in the 60+ category, outplaying Billy Walsh of O’Loughlins. The Women’s Singles events brought just as much excitement. Arklow’s Toni Neary captured the 30+ title, defeating Templeudigan’s Niamh Murphy in a high-energy match. Grace Hearn of Templeudigan secured the 40+ championship, overcoming Sharon Kearns from Gusserane in a closely contested final. Doubles action did not disappoint, with remarkable teamwork on display. In the Men’s 30+ Doubles, the duo of Mark Murphy and Noel O’Callaghan (O’Loughlins, Fermoy) defeated Johnny O’Keeney and Joe Devenney (Fermoy, Ballinrobe). The Men’s 50+ Doubles saw an all-Arklow pairing of Jimmy Gannon and Joe Farrell take the title against Billy Walsh and Don Lawlor. In the Women’s 30+ Doubles, Toni Neary and Bernadette O’Callaghan (Arklow, Fermoy) overcame Niamh Murphy and Anne Boland of Templeudigan. Meanwhile, the Women’s 40+ Doubles title went to Grace and Olivia Hearn, a Templeudigan duo, who defeated their clubmates Suzanne Fitzharris and Margaret Walsh. In the B categories, rising stars and seasoned players alike had their moment to shine. Curtis Young of Arklow took home the Men’s 30+ B title, defeating Wexford’s Leon Galvin. Jason Tennant of Davidstown captured the Men’s 40+ B title, beating Barry Murphy of Gusserane. Noelie Keogh of Ballyanne emerged victorious in the Men’s 50+ B category, outplaying Davidstown’s Andrew Egan. On the women’s side, Michelle Keogh from Ballyanne claimed the 40+ B title, overcoming clubmate Yvonne Ryan in a spirited final. The Championships were a celebration of racquetball’s enduring appeal across generations, with both experienced players and newcomers delivering exceptional performances. Congratulations to all the winners and participants for a fantastic tournament! Full Results Here The RAI is delighted to welcome Thea Coleman from Mitchelstown to two key roles within the Association.
Thea has been co-opted onto the Executive Committee as Junior Development Officer and will also serve a three-year term as National Junior Coach. RAI President Susan Farrell expressed her excitement about Thea’s appointment, stating, “Thea will be an invaluable asset to the future of junior racquetball in Ireland.” We are excited to see Thea’s contributions to these vital roles and the positive impact she will have on the development of junior players. Welcome aboard, Thea! The 8th Women’s Irish Open Racquetball Tournament took place on January 11, 2024, at the Fermoy Community Youth Centre and Mitchelstown. There were some excellent games played, highlighting the depth and skill within women’s racquetball in Ireland. In the Women’s Open Singles final, Antonia Neary (Arklow), defeated Elaine Murphy (Templederry) in a hard-fought match, 3-1. The Women’s Open/B/C Doubles final was a gripping contest that went the distance. The local duo of Thea Coleman and Megan Coleman (Mitchelstown) defeated Antonia Neary and Caylee Hogan (Arklow/Mitchelstown) in a thrilling 3-2 victory, much to the delight of the home crowd. In the CD Singles division, Niamh Murphy (Templeluidigan) claimed the title over Cara Delaney (Galmoy). Abbie O Meara (Fermoy) and Kathleen Conway (Castlebar) shared the bronze medal, showcasing strong performances throughout the tournament. The Novice Singles final saw Megan Coleman (Mitchelstown) secure her second title of the day with a victory over Grace Hearn (Templeluidigan). Eva Horgan and Mary Hogan, both from Mitchelstown, earned bronze medals for their efforts in this highly competitive division. The Novice Plate was won by Olivia Hearn (Templeluidigan), who defeated Edna O Mahoney (Fermoy) in the final, demonstrating impressive skill and determination. In the D/Novice Doubles category, Sophie O Flynn and Mary Hogan (Mitchelstown/Mitchelstown) claimed the title over Fiona Kyne and Anna Murphy (Castlebar/Castlebar). The Under 14 Singles final featured a battle of emerging talents, with Eva Horgan (Mitchelstown) overcoming Emily Delaney (Galmoy) to secure the title. Sophie O Flynn and Sadhbh Donegan, both of Mitchelstown, earned bronze medals. The Under 14 Plate was claimed by Lucy Murphy (Castlebar), who defeated Grace Delaney (Galmoy) in the final. A special mention goes to Anna Murphy (Castlebar), who was named Sports Person of the Tournament for her outstanding sportsmanship and dedication throughout the event. The 8th Women’s Irish Open was a celebration of skill, camaraderie, and passion for racquetball. Congratulations to all the participants, organizers, and supporters who made the event a resounding success. We look forward to seeing even more talent on display in future tournaments. Full Results Here |
Archives
February 2025
Categories
All
|