A group of ladies golfers from Ballina have been celebrating on a national stage lately, after winning bronze at the AIG Minor Foursomes Inter-Club competition at Shannon Golf Club.
The Ballina Golf Club team enjoyed a resounding quarter-final victory at the Co Clare course, beating the North Ulster champions from Co Tyrone, Fintona Golf Club. The All-Ireland semi-final took place on Friday, September 20 in brilliant sunshine where Ballina were narrowly beaten in fiercely fought matches by Howth Golf Club, the North Leinster champions.
The journey for the Ballina team had begun all the way back in July with a win over Castlebar in a very tight match which ended in a very exciting playoff hole finish. Following this the team competed in Rosses Point where they defeated the home club, a very strong County Sligo team.
From there it was on to Loughrea Golf Club where Ballina were crowned Connacht champions with a fantastic win over Athenry, and the celebrations that followed in no way detracted from their focus of performing to the best of their ability on the All-Ireland stage.
“I wish to thank all those who helped in any way with our journey to the All-Ireland Series,” said Helena Syron, the Ballina team captain. “I especially want to thank all the members of Ballina GC for their support and a special word of thanks to our sponsor local businessman, Alan Rowe.” She also complimented the team for their dedication and commitment over the entire summer. The team comprised of Elaine O’Hora, Ann Carrabine, Ann Cawley, Stephanie Stapleton, Marie Forde, Mary Reynolds, Bertha Cooke, Margaret Healy, Michelle Mulligan, Bridie McCormack, Josephine O’Hora, Catherine Smith, Patricia Gaughan, Alice Melody along with team captain Helena Syron and vice-captain Phil Cronin.