Sunday April 21st was another historic day for An Charraig Mhór Naomh Colmcille when they officially opened the new playing surface at their headquarters at the 'foot of the rock', Carrickmore. The old field, the ' big meadow' had served the club well since 1971 but a decision to update the drainage and playing surface proved to be the right one when one casts their eye over the finished project.

Chairman Turlough Mc Garrity welcomed everyone and commenced proceeding with his address which paid tribute to a long list of loyal clubmen and women who had worked tirelessly to make the day possible. He thanked his predecessor Dermot Loughran who in two years as Chairman had overseen the bulk of the work of the new development which included not only extensive drainage and ground works but restoration and improvement work to the stands, perimeter fencing, catch nets and grass banks. The Chairman also paid tribute to past Treasurer, Sean Kerr, who had also played a significant part in the works associated with the redevelopment of the playing surface and who worked closely with Fox Contracts for the duration of much of the project. This years Vice Chairman, Padraig Mc Callan, was also highlighted for his overall commitment to the project as was Mick Daly for his long service to this project and the club in general. Turlough then invited the County Chairman, Ciaran Mc Laughlin, to speak and in his address he praised the Carrickmore club for the magnificent job they had done in the laying of the new pitch. He commended the club on their initiative and drive and added that over the years they had always been to the forefront in providing excellent playing facilities for both themselves and visiting clubs. He wished the club every success in the future and stated that he looked forward to watching many entertaining games on the new field.

Fr Mallon was on hand to bless the new playing surface and everyone who would play on it. After that the crowd warmly welcomed the 2013 club President Pat Kelly to the field to receive his Presidential medal from last years President Packie McPhilips. Turlough Mc Garrity pointed out that it was fitting that on such a day that a person who was so heavily involved in the development of facilities at Pairc Colmcille should be honoured at the official opening of the new field.

The senior game between An Charraig Mhór and Eglish followed with the home clubs under 8 and under 10 boys making a special appearance at half time to give supporters a glimpse of the stars of the future. It is certain that many these boys will someday emerge from the tunnel at Pairc Colmcille in the not too distant future as senior players.

The club would like to take this opportunity to thank Secretary Pat Nugent who kept the order of business running as planned.

List of acknowledgements: 2010, 2011 and 2012 Committee's; Fox Contracts; Oliver, Rory and Eoin Hughes steel cleaning and paintwork on stands; Milly Woods and U16 boy's seat painting Nally Stand: Cormac Mc Gurk, Vinny Mullan, Lawrence Kelly painting and other improvement work; Frank, Paddy, Paddy Jnr, Stephen, Terry, Oisin Mc Elroy tree cutting and clearing. Kieran Hurson and Barry Mc Nally catch nets; Aidan Loughran and Gerry Haughey power washing; Jimmy Mc Elhatton. Everyone else who helped out in any way to make the grounds ready for the official opening and whose name may have been left out. Tweet

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