Societies join the stars for Páidí Ó Sé charity fundraiser

Even since his sad passing, Páidí Ó Sé attracts attention, and a special Kerry GAA Society golf outing in Ceann Sibéal next month is proof positive of same.

His former West Kerry and county colleague, Vincent ‘Shin’ O’Connor, is using the society’s June outing as a special fundraiser for Fondúireacht Páidí Ó Sé, a charitable foundation that aims to provide much-needed services in Kerry and nationally.

The event has sparked interest in the wider inter-county GAA community with scores of players from around the country teaming up to play in the event on the peninsula links. The competition format is a fourball/better ball stableford points, and entry fee is €50pp which includes a three-course meal. Time sheet will run from 7.30am to 4.30pm.

Said ‘Shin’ O’Connor: “Qualifying players from other counties are especially welcome to play on the day. Due to the special nature of the competition, the society would welcome and appreciate golfers from other sports, along with sports personnel from press and television.”

He explained: “Fondúireacht Páidí Ó Sé’s first objective is to provide Kerry General Hospital with a cardiac CT scanner which is a non-invasive method of detecting heart disease. In its first year, the foundation is also committed to providing funds to the Mater Foundation to assist them in their ongoing fight against heart disease. Páidí was a man of the people and our aim is that all funds raised go directly to the betterment of Irish communities he so dearly cherished.”

Special rates are being offered for guests at Dingle Skellig Hotel (066-9151144, €59pp Fri), the Alpine Guest House (066-9151250, €38pp sharing B&B), Benners Hotel (066-9151638, €129 double/twin B&B), and Tommy Griffin’s Muiris Dan’s Pub and accommodation (086-0785575, €20pp per night). Bookings must be made directly with hotels etc, quoting “Kerry GAA Golf Society Outing”.

“I would appeal to all to turn out and play, not only to support a most worthy cause but to show your appreciation for one of Ireland’s greatest sporting legends,” said O’Connor.

* Vincent O’Connor can be contacted regarding tee-times on 087-6418002.