Milltown and Shandonagh step into ring for mega showdown

Battle of Westmeath, Mullingar Equestrian Centre, Saturday November 15, 7pm

This isn’t just a fight night – it’s bragging rights for the year, representatives of Milltown and Shandonagh GAA Clubs agreed as they told the Westmeath Examiner about the Battle of Westmeath.

The event is a fundraiser for both clubs, and it’s a community night you won’t want to miss, they said.

What Niall McGauran (Milltown) and Sean Reilly (Shandonagh) are talking about is a huge night on Saturday next, November 15, when the gloves go on and the rivalries ignite in the ring for a white-collar boxing showdown like no other.

Fifteen fighters from each club will go head-to-head to trade punches and pride in front of a packed arena at Mullingar Equestrian Centre.

This week, the fighters wrap up their six-week training camp and discover who their opponents are, and while the action in the ring will be fierce, it’s all in the name of fun, community spirit, and raising vital funds for the futures of both GAA clubs.

Milltown GAA are raising funds for the development of a second pitch with astro turf, an essential addition that will allow them to host activities year-round. Shandonagh GAA aim to fund a gym that builds on recent developments, further enhancing their facilities for current and future members.

Niall and Sean and others from their clubs reckon it will be the social night of year, an opportunity for GAA members across the county to let their hair down after the club championships.

Apart from the boxing, there is a knockout night of music in store, starting with a trad seisiún once doors open, and finishing with a mega after-party when Ruaile Buaile take to the gig rig at the arena. There will be a bar, food stall and giveaways on the night.

Niall said: “This event is like nothing that’s been done before in the county. The boxing is only one element of the night – we have Music as soon as the doors open, we have interval entertainment, a huge prize draw and Ruaile Buaile have been added to the card for the after-party.

“The match-ups and bouts will be revealed on social media after an intense six-week training camp and we’re asking everyone to get behind them by donating online in the final few days before the event. These are ordinary club people with extraordinary courage and they have put in incredible training and commitment since September.

Speaking for Shandonagh, Sean added: “We’d like to thank all the sponsors who have come on board – so many local businesses answered our call and we were blown away by the generosity of them all. Their financial support will play a massive role in developing both clubs and the communities of Shandonagh and Milltown.”

The clubs serve as vital cornerstones in their communities, providing young individuals with invaluable lessons in teamwork, discipline and the joy of Gaelic games. As populations continue to grow, club development projects become increasingly crucial to ensure safe, modern spaces that promote healthy, active lifestyles for all ages.

Doors open at 7pm at Mullingar Equestrian Centre on Saturday November 15. Tickets (€40) are available through Milltown and Shandonagh GAA Clubs or call Brian on 0873809487 or Eamonn on 0879954810. To donate to any of the fighters, iDonate links are on the Battle of Westmeath Fight Night Fundraiser on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.