In these times of austerity, when things seem to be getting tighter by the week, it’s hard to find people to sponsor anything, let alone a pigeon club. But, the Maiden City RPS has been able to find a number of people to do just that and would like to take this opportunity in thanking all of them. And, this being the clubs 35th Anniversary year, the contributions towards the new trophies were even more appreciated. Again, a big thank to everyone from the club. The club I'm sure also appreciates the hard work that goes into getting the sponsorship in the first place.
All the new trophies were proudly displayed at the club’s annual dinner and presentation, which was held recently at Pitchers Restaurant. This year again saw a good overall spread in the top prizes, with the majority of members taking at least one top prize. This again emphasizes just how strong and competitive the Maiden City club is.
The club’s special guest on the night was Mr. Hugh Mc Gowan. Hugh was the first man to win an Open race into Derry, back in 1976. This coincidentally, was the year that the Maiden City was founded. And, with both anniversaries coinciding, who better to ask along as your special guest, and, to present this years awards.
The club also presented Hugh with a piece of cut glass to commemorate his great achievement in winning the Open. And on such a great night for the club, one of its founder members John Killen also received a gift to commemorate the clubs anniversary. John is the only original member of the club still flying with it today and, was also presented with the Clubman of The Year award. In such a year in the club’s history, you really couldn’t have anyone else as your Clubman. He deserves it just for supporting the club and sticking with it for so many years.
This has also been a good year for prize money in the club with the members sharing some £1,275 and, with the draw for the £1,000 lotto money as well. Plus, all members received a free ticket to the dinner. All in all, not a bad nights’ work for all the hard work that went in during the year. It just goes to show, that when everyone pulls together, you can achieve an awful lot for the club.
We will give a quick mention to the top prize winners this year. Kieran Quigley ( of, Dunne&Quigley). I have to say this or will be in bother again with the junior partner. Kieran takes top old bird and combined honours. Robert Lyle takes top young flyer having had a great season with four in a row. Also, all our National winners and Section winners’ (which, the club can boast five of this year). And finally to all the clubs winners and to those who didn’t quite make it, here’s to next season, and let’s hope for continued success for everyone.
Ruairi Quigley helps dad Kieran to collect some of his prizes.
John receives a special 35th Anniversary present from Hugh and Pat.
The only lady member Heather Borland collects the Talbenny Trophy.
John and his long suffering wife receive gifts from Hugh and Pat.
Clubman of the Year with Hugh and club Chairman Pat McLaughlin.
The club present award to special guest Hugh McGowan.
Hugh with Secretary Michael Coyle the Yearling Hen Nat winner.
Sean McGrotty won the YB National.
John McGettigan won the Rosscarbery OB National.
Hugn McGowan presents award to the top YB Flyer Robert Lyle.
Keiran Quigley and son Ruairire collect awards from special guest Hugh McGowan.