Clonkill clubs launch draw to raise funds for club facilities

Last night (Thursday) saw both Clonkill Hurling and Camogie Clubs join forces to launch a fundraising draw for some much needed funding to improve the facilities at the club.

This development involves the upgrade of the pitch lighting to a suitable standard to accommodate evening training and matches, the development of a new astro training area next the community centre and to create an additional training area to the northwest of the site, alongside the current playing pitch, along with improved parking facilities and other ancillary works.

The club has been established at this current location in Loughegar since 1988 when the current pitch was developed. This was a state of the art facility in its time and continues to be one of the top playing fields in the county. In the intervening years, a community centre has also been built, and is enjoyed by many different groups, organisations and sporting entities that benefit the entire local community and beyond.

The continued success of both Clonkill Hurling and Camogie Clubs over recent years has seen a growth in membership to a point that it has become necessary to develop the facilities further to facilitate and accommodate every member equally.

Planning permission has been approved by Westmeath County Council for the project and the club has secured grant funding of €150,000 from the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme. This is a very welcomed injection of funds to support such a project, however the club must also supplement this figure with a similar amount to be raised through fundraising initiatives throughout 2022 and 2023.

On Thursday night, the fundraising draw was launched with a total prize fund of €20,000 to be held on October 28. This includes a first prize of €15,000, second prize of €3,000, third prize of €1,000 and fourth and fifth prize of €500 each. Tickets go on sale for €20 each, three for €50 or seven for €100.

This development will benefit both Clonkill Hurling and Camogie Clubs, providing the best possible facilities for the youth of the community to enjoy. Not only does it improve the sporting prowess of all players but is also invaluable to the health, mental health and wellbeing of all members.

As a club, Clonkill are extremely proud of their history, tradition and heritage. Especially the more recent history since establishing themselves at the current location and the success that this has brought to both clubs at all levels, both within the county and at national level.

This has been achieved by no mean feat, but by the continued dedication and hard work from the many committees, mentors, players, supporters and dedicated families over the years and the objective is for this to continue well into the future.

Finally, both Clonkill Hurling and Camogie Clubs wish to acknowledge and thank all of their committees, members, supporters, sponsors, the local community and the GAA community at large for their continued support throughout this fundraising endeavour, and wish everyone who participates in this draw the very best of luck.