The annual presentation took place at the Derry City F.C Social Club with veteran fancier Noel McGrotty as the club's guest of honour. A minutes applause was given by members in memory of Sean McGrotty, a Maiden City member and top young fancier who tragically lost his life together with his young sons, Mark and Evan, his mother in law Ruth, and sister in law Jodie in the Buncrana pier tragedy.
Top flyer in 2016 was Tony Rodgers, Elaghmore Lofts, who won a total of six races, to become the top Young Bird flyer as well as overall Highest prize-winner. Some achievement when you consider that Tony only competed with 7 old bird racers and rears no more than 25 to 30 youngsters.
The top honours for Old Bird flyers goes to Roy & Gary Martin who had a phenomenal year winning 5 races in the old bird season - again these fanciers don’t house a lot of birds proving quality rather than quantity is key.
Other prize-winners included Pat McLaughlin, Paddy & Martin Healy, Billy Ogilvie, John & Eddie McGettigan,Tony, Andy & David Morrison, Steve O'Dea, Robert Lyle, and Jim McGrotty.
A new trophy was presented by Noel McGrotty in memory of his son Sean for Highest Points all NIPA National races. Many thanks for the excellent turn out of members and to the staff and management of the Derry City Social Club for hosting the event.
Noel McGrotty (l) presents cup to Tony Rodgers best YB loft and Highest prize-winner.
Roy Martin of R & G Martin were r/u for Top Prize-winner.
Billy Oligvie first club Maiden City - only bird in club St Malo. Breeding - Eamonn Quigley's Kenyon line and Rab Smyth Larne, Kenyon line.