PORTUMNA & DISTRICT Angling Association have been in celebratory spirits to mark its seventieth anniversary.
Celebrations took place on Saturday in a day all about fishing and friendship which brought together members, families and honorary members to marvel at the Association’s heritage.
Kicking off the activities was the annual Perch Bonanza Fishing Competition for both children and adults. This was sponsored by Hayes & Hayes Vital Pharmacy and Palmerston Stores, Liam Burke and John Hogan.
In the children’s competition, Donnacha Harris claimed first place, followed by Emily Keane in second, while Justin Cimposino took third place and also won the Big Fish prize. In the adult competition, Tom Keane secured first place, Florin Cimposino finished second and won the Big Fish award, with Pat Warde taking third place.
Members then enjoyed a community barbecue, expertly prepared by long-standing club members Sean D. and Joan Gordon, before the presentation of the Adrian Harris Memorial May Fly Cup. This year’s winner was Philipe Harte, with the trophy presented by Adrian’s daughter, Tara Harte. David Harris finished in second place, with Joe Harding taking third.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, special edition 70th anniversary club hats were presented to Honorary President Garry Kenny, honorary member Eileen Smith, and caretaker Billy Patterson in recognition of their longstanding commitment to the club.
Garry reflected on the origins of the association and its 1956 founding members: Des Gordon, Jack Cox, Jimmy Laing, Louis Gordon, Frank Claffey, D.J. Kearns, while David Harris shared a brief history of the club and its achievements over the past seven decades. The evening concluded with a lively singalong, with music provided by The Gordon Sisters, Michelle and Fidelma.
Maedhbh Gordon of the Portumna & District Angling Association said it was “such a special occasion ensuring the rich tradition of angling, boating and community spirit in Portumna continues for generations to come”.
