Golf classic to raise money as costs spiral for Limerick senior soccer club
A GOLF classic to raise money for the development of pitches for a northside senior soccer club takes place next month.
Ballynanty Rovers, who have reached the final of the FAI Junior Cup in recent seasons, secured government funding for improvements to its facilities just before the pandemic.
But following Covid-19, the war in Ukraine and the cost-of-living crisis, club officials have found that costs have spiralled, leaving them with a six-figure shortfall to make up.
It's hoped the golfing event, which takes place on Thursday. June 22 and Friday, June 23 at Limerick Golf Club will go some way towards cutting that deficit.
Club treasurer Anne-Marie Stacke explained how just before lockdown in March 2020, they secured a quote from building contractor Roadbridge for €138,000.
On this basis, they secured a Sports Capital Grant.
"Then Covid struck and Roadbridge went into liquidation and our nightmare began. The development had to be paused as we sought another company to undertake the work. With the cost of living crisis, our development is now costing €300,000 just for the first phase which is the development of the pitch. We have a shortfall of €162,000 which is a nightmare," she said.
Tee-times for the golf classic will be 2pm to 4.30pm each day, and entering a team of three will cost €300, a sum which includes a meal and goodie bag.
There will be special prizes on the day, including a €10,000 voucher for one of the event sponsors D&J Glazing for anyone who scores a hole in one as part of a competition.
While local companies and individuals are also being sought to sponsor a tee-box for €100.
Ballynanty Rovers are also looking for businesses to sponsor prizes on the day.
"Everyone knows how important this fundraising is to us as we strive to develop our new sports ground," said Ms Stacke, "It would be fantastic if every soccer club could support us by entering a team. We would greatly appreciate it."
Although the event does not take place until next month, Ballynanty Rovers is hoping to have all the teams in place as soon as possible.
For more information, please contact Christian Meehan on 0879849611, Ray O'Halloran on 087-2537949, or Christy Earls at 085-7377383.
Alternatively, you can contact either Ger Doherty at 0879357942 or Aidan O'Halloran, 086-3176002.f