Blitzing in Castleisland: This is a community heartbeat, not a sideshow

The dream that became a reality in the Astor Ballroom is now a phenomenon. Fifty one years later, the basketball festival is still the centre of their universe.

EYES ON THE PRIZE: In action, during the Division 2 ladies final were Amy Harrington of Kenmare Kestrels (RED) and Rachel Griffin of TK Bobcats. Pic: Domnick Walsh 

DONAL O’Connor often tells a story about the parish priest who visited Castleisland’s National School in the late 1970s. ‘What is Christmas about?’ he asked the wide-eyed children. There was only one answer. A hand shot up and an explanation came with conviction: “Canon, Christmas is about the Blitz.” 

O’Connor - 'Duke' to his compatriots - is founder and organiser-in-chief of St Mary’s Christmas Basketball Blitz. Its golden jubilee has come and gone and the small town sensation glistens brighter than ever. For the 51st time, Castleisland hosted five days of storming sport in the powerful atmosphere of the Community Centre. 175 games featuring 130 teams took place between that venue and the nearby St John’s Hall, affectionately known as ‘The Shoebox.’