Boru cook-off for Ballina GAA

THOUSANDS of euro will be raised for charity in Killaloe this weekend at a giant cook-off taking place at the birthplace of Ireland’s famous High King, Brian Boru.

“Boru BQ 2011” takes place on Saturday outside Flanagan’s on the Lake in Ballina. Situated on the banks of the River Shannon overlooking Lough Derg, the restaurant is the perfect setting for the fun day out which follows on the huge success of last year’s inaugural event.

Some 20 teams have signed up to take part and all money raised on the day will go towards Ballina GAA’s fundraising drive for the purchase of a new training field, and Smith O’Brien GAA’s fundraising for a club house and community centre in Killaloe.

Teams will have to cook recipes from a variety of different meat and fish categories. Judging will be overseen by Ken Switzer of the Irish Barbecue Association.

The panel of judges will also feature a number of well-known local celebrities and foodies.

The event kicks off at 12pm with the final judging and prizegiving ceremony taking place at 5pm.

Spectators will be able to sample quality produce from a number of market stalls, icecream stands and hotdog stands, and enjoy live music by Ten Items or Less.

“This year’s Boru BQ competition follows on the massive success of last year’s inaugural event, where thousands of euro was raised for Raheen Community Hospital and the local Search and Recovery Unit,” asid Cathal Quinn of Flanagan’s on the Lake.

“We received huge support from the local community for last year’s competition and everyone is really looking forward to Saturday,” he added.

Having first opened in 2007 Flanagan’s on the Lake has become one of the most popular eateries in the mid west since it re-opened under the new management of its head chef Brian Hayes, and Tipperary businessman Cathal Quinn two years ago.