Tipperary secondary school celebrates 50th anniversary of Class of 1975

The CBS Thurles Class of 1975 held a 50 year reunion on October 18.

Of the 63 students that sat the Leaving Certificate exam that year 37 came from near and far – some from overseas as well as many from around the country to meet and reconnect with old friends from an earlier time.

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The day began with a meet and greet at the CBS.

On arrival, those in attendance say it was wonderful to see such an array of All-Ireland winning cups on display including, the Liam McCarthy, the JJ Kenneally Perpetual Memorial Cup, the Harty Cup, and the Croke Cup.

Ger Sammon, on behalf of the organising committee, formally welcomed all to the very
special occasion.

There was a minutes silence to remember six colleagues from the class of ‘75 that had passed.

He provided a short overview to remind the gathering of happenings during their days in the CBS and in Thurles.

Current Principal Tiernan O’Donnell was introduced to address the gathering.

He was delighted to welcome the Class of ‘75 back to the CBS.

He was most kind and generous with his words and provided an overview on all aspects of school life today as well speaking of the growth of the student population, staff numbers etc.

Jimmy Duggan, local historian, was on hand and spoke about growing up in Thurles in the 60s and 70s.

He took those present back in time and painted a wonderful picture of home life, the street scape, street leagues, sports, swimming in Lady’s Well, and school days at Scoil Ailbhe.

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The success of Tipperary hurling in those years and the welcome home reception on the steps of the Cathedral was also recalled.

Mr Joe Barry, retired teacher and tutor to many in attendance, also spoke of his early years teaching in Wexford before arriving in Thurles.

Those in attendance say it was most interesting to hear him speak as he contrasted the challenge the change had on him moving from the smaller school in Wexford to the larger one in Thurles.

He complimented the entire class on celebrating the occasion and was thrilled to be invited back to the CBS.

After these formalities, there was time for photographs, networking and a walk through the corridors of the school to view old school photographs and reminisce on former school days and view more recent school accomplishments.

Celebrations then moved from the CBS to the Anner Hotel for dinner.

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The Hotel was superb, providing a wonderful warm setting and delivering a 5-star service that won the praise of all.

The drinks and sing-song that followed into the late hours was indeed a fitting end to a great occasion.

The reunion was inspired by Jimmy Butler and the organisation committee for the event
included Noel Russell, Ger Sammon, Tim Regan, Michael Long, John Geehan and Jimmy Butler.

Subsequent to the event, a donation was made to Tiernan O Donnell on behalf of the reunion class toward the Harty Cup training fund.