Stars line out for fundraiser

The Ger Loughnane Cancer Challenge dominates the Clare GAA scene this weekend as the former All-Ireland-winning boss attempts to raise €40,000 to improve facilities for patients and their families at hospitals in Limerick and Dublin.

During his battle with leukaemia, Loughnane underwent treatment at the Mid-West Cancer Centre in Limerick’s University Hospital and at St James’ Hospital, Dublin. The RTÉ pundit was shocked at what he felt was a lack of facilities for patients and their families. Loughnane’s sentiment is echoed by Clarecastle native Leonard McNamara, who is still undergoing treatment in Limerick.

The pair have spearheaded this weekend’s fundraising drive, which kick-starts with an All-Ireland hurling championship preview at the West County Hotel, Ennis tomorrow evening. Brian Cody, Liam Sheedy, Richie Bennis, Anthony Daly and Davy Fitzgerald will debate the hurling season before an audience of 400 people, with RTÉ’s Marty Morrissey chairing the debate.

On Saturday, Dublin and Clare will play a senior hurling challenge at 7pm in Cusack Park. Tickets for the game are €10 (U16s free). Members of the 1995 Clare All-Ireland-winning team will manage the turnstiles.

Anne Jones, a member of the organising committee, is confident the €40,000 target will be surpassed.

“That figure alone, we should hit in the West County tomorrow night,” she said. “The 40 tables are already sold out at €1,000 per table. We are really hoping people come out for the challenge game then on Saturday as it will be a last opportunity to see these teams before the start of the championship. The Cancer Challenge idea was born when Ger and Leonard first met. The two realised the facilities that they felt were needed as part of cancer treatment weren’t available... simple practical things like chairs, internet, a TV you could look at for any length of time that wasn’t stuck in the ceiling. They want to ensure the money raised this weekend is ploughed into improving facilities, not high-flying technology.”

* To donate contact Anne 0872204645 or Leonard McNamara 0872204819