Q&A: ‘You definitely won’t regret joining Macra’

Michael Buckley, Glanmire Macra PRO, chats with the club’s chairwoman, Sarah O’Connell.

How did you get involved in Macra?

To be honest I hadn’t heard of Macra until I joined college and met a girl from Dunmanway Macra, and then the only reason I joined was because she raved so much about it. It also helped that there was public speaking and debating in Macra which was required for my college course. So I went along to a meeting in Sarsfield GAA on the Wednesday and by the Friday I was taking part in impromptu public speaking and I have loved every minute since.

When did you join?

I got involved around 2011, so almost six years ago now. Growing up, I was never one to stick with the one hobby or activity and usually lost interest after a few months so I surprised everyone by sticking with this so long. It has helped that there is a massive variety of activities and events to get involved in.

From never being able to stick to one activity to becoming chairwoman of Glanmire Macra, that’s quite a change.

Well, that’s true! When joining Glanmire Macra, I never thought I would become as involved as I have in the club and now the region. I was secretary of Glanmire before becoming chairperson and it really gave me an insight into how Macra na Feirme operates and what you do for your club and its members. When the AGM came around I thought: ‘Sure why not we’ll go for it and see what happens and if I get elected I’ll do my best.” I must have done something right as earlier this summer I was re-elected.

As chair, what would you like to see Glanmire Macra achieve in the next year?

Last year was such a success, it is hard to find somewhere we can improve on. We had 25 new members, competition entry was high in all areas and all of our events were greatly attended.by the local community and other Macra clubs.

I would love to do a fundraiser for a local charity that is new and original. I would love to see more, younger people joining the club this year. It’s a great way to meet new people and will help their confidence.

You are also secretary of the Seandún region. Tell us about being on the officer board.

Last year I was competitions secretary in the Seandún region. This entailed helping out at the various competitions with sign-ins, time-keeping, etc. This meant you got to know a lot more people from outside your club.

It also meant using the Miami system to enter people into the competitions. This year I was elected as Seandín secretary which I am really looking forward to.

I’m told there is less work involved than a club secretary but with the Seandún 60th anniversary coming up next April I have my doubts. So no doubt it will be a busy year for Glanmire and Seandún.

What kind of things have you done since joining Macra?

I tried to get involved in most aspects. I was never a sporty person in school and was the one “forgetting” my tracksuit so I wouldn’t have to take part. But since I joined Macra, I have tried all the sports competitions, along with the welding competition (I beat some of the lads I’m told), farm skills (I didn’t have a notion but had great fun), public speaking, and, this year, Capers.

I always said I’d never get on stage but Capers was probably the most enjoyable competition I have taken part in. It’s the lead up to the event and the time spent practicing with your club that was the best part. You really get to know your members during this time.

What is your best memory of your time in Macra?

That is so hard to say! I would say taking part in the Blue Jeans Competition four years ago in Co Meath. I met so many people from all over the country and had support from the club and region it was a fantastic weekend. Also our skydive for YSPI. We raised vital funds for the organisation and had a great time doing it. Macra has made me push past my boundaries and fears like getting on stage through Capers and public speaking. Not to mention pushing myself to the limit by doing the skydive.

What would you say to anyone looking at joining Macra?

Do it! You definitely won’t regret joining Macra once you bite the bullet. I joined for the public speaking and have since taken part in things I would never have dreamed or had the opportunity to do before joining Macra. If you’re looking to meet new people and make new friends it’s the perfect opportunity as you meet people of all ages and backgrounds from all over the country and world.

See Glanmire Macra’s Facebook page for more

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