Open sports were held on Sunday, August 14^th 1926, in Templemore, in ideal weather conditions. The No.1 Army Band travelled by excursion train from Dublin and played a beautiful selection of music, which was much appreciated. Hats off to the committee in charge for it was surely a great day in the annals of athletics, with clock-word attention to the smallest detail.

“Isn’t the Park lovely”, was the saying of the 5,000 attendance, and no wonder, situated as it is in the centre of the town, surrounded by an immense selection of beautiful trees, and these in turn surround a splendid lake.

Looking across the lake, as the sun went down you could see the swans, and their little ones careering to and from the islands. The once famous abbey and the “Devils Bit” in the background all make the town park a little gem, set in the Emerald Isle.

The attendance included the Minister for Local Government, Mr Seamus Burke, T. D. and the programme embraced all the usual events with J.J. Ryan of Dromline Tipperary topping the programme by winning the four miles open handicap off scratch and receiving a great ovation from the spectators.

An exhibition throw with the discus was given by the Irish champion, P. J. Bermingham (Dublin Metropolitan Police) and was loudly applauded, his best effort reaching 134ft.

100 yards open-----1, F. Fitzgerald (Noremount); 2, J.M. Bannon (Templemore)

1 mile cycle-----1, T. Coleton (Killeigh); 2, T. Phelan (Carrick-on-Suir); 3, J.J. Carroll

880 yards----1, D. M. Coard (Dublin); 2, M. Mac Aodhagain (Goresbridge);3, G. Griffin

440 yards confined----1, Sgt. T. P. Mc Mahon (Templemore); 2, J. Ryan(Loughmore).

High Jump--- 1, Sgt. M. Houlihan (Curragh) 6’2”; 2, P. Cahill (Tipperary)6’ 1”; 3, G.

5 mile cycle championship of Munster----1,T. Phelan (Carrick); 2, M. Phelan (do) 3, J.J.

Long Jump----1, F.B. Moynihan.(D.M.P) 23’ 6”; 2, T. Shanahan (Ballinure)22’ 8”

220 yards ladies confined----1, Miss L. Casey (Templemore); 2, Miss Corcoran (do)

1 mile flat----1, K. Coard (Dublin); 2. J.J. Harty (Thurles); 3, C. Hickey (Tipperary).

28 lbs shot----1, M. Kennedy, Kilcommon, 34'11 ½” ; 2, G. O’ Brien, Moneygall, 32’ 7”;

Hop, step and jump----1, W.J. Daly (Emly),49’ 3 ½” ;2, J.Manning (Army Depot), 47’

4 mile flat----1, J.J. Ryan (Tipperary);2, K. Coard (Dublin); 3, M. Collison (Moneygall).

Pole vault----1, P. Anglim (Clonmel),10’ 1”; 2, T. Shanahan (Ballinure), 10’; 3, P.

120 yards hurdles----1, D. Conway (U.C.D.); 2, T. Shanahan (Ballinure); 3, J. Manning

WON 100 YDS. RACE BY AN INCH
John Lawlor, Carrick-on-Suir, the Irish 100 yards champion, won the 100 yards with about an inch to spare from Sean Naughton, Nenagh A.C., in 10.3 seconds, at Dromkeen (Co. Limerick) Open Sports on Sunday last. J. Lawlor also won the 220 yards flat. Kevin Prendergast, Clonmel won the 16 lbs shot event. T. Ryan, Clonmel, won the two miles race, and was second, in the three miles. D. Murphy, Nenagh, was second in the 880 yards flat. W. O'Dwyer, Holycross, was third in the 8,000 metres championship of Ireland. J. Bradshaw, Tipperary, was third in the 561bs. shot.
Tipperary Star,5 September 1959.

Paddy Naughton Takes His Second Decathlon.
Paddy Naughton, Tyone, surely deserves to be numbered among the leading Irish sports stats of the current week. From the All-Ireland N.A.C.A. championships held in Dublin over last weekend, he emerged top athlete, with a total score of 5,042 points, thus capturing his second Decathlon in two
years (his first was in 1957) and adding his second gold medal to the now priceless treasure trove of trophies which he has been steadily stocking since he made his athletic debut at a sports meeting in Moneygall in 1950. In last weekend's championships he took first place in the 100 metres, 400
metres and shot putt; second place in long jump, discus and 110 metres hurdles; third place in the 1,500 metres and javelin, and fourth place in the high jump and pole vault.Sean Naughton (Paddy's brother) and his Olympic A.C. colleague Liam Gleeson took fourth and fifth place respectively, in the championships. Sean (who scored 3,808 points) was 2nd in the 100 metres, and 3rd in both the high and long jump, and Liam (whose score was 3,642 points) was first in the pole vault, second in the javelin and third in the discuss. Paddy, who is the eldest of the three Naughton brothers and as humble a star as you'll ever meet, works at Messrs Dwyer's of Cork, and is a member if St.
Finbarr's A.C.
Tipperary Star, 20 September 1959.

CO. TIPPERARY ATHLETICS - FINANCE THE PROBLEM
In the course of his annual report, to be submitted to the County Tipperary N.A.C.A. Convention, at the Castle Hotel, Thurles, next Sunday, Mr M. Navin, Hon. Secretary, states that club strength increased by three during the year, and they had, a week before the convention, nineteen clubs on the books Giving details of the various competitions run during the year, he states that the County Novice race at the Jockey realised, a £20 gate- the best of all the gates of the year. The local arrangements by the Moycarkey-Borris club were well attended to, and their thanks were due to the Hon. Secretary, Tom Fogarty, and his fellow workers.

FINANCIAL LOSSES.
For the junior cross-country at Knockgraffon, there was a small attendance, with a £6 gate, and a financial loss. They were indebted to Tom Dwyer, Hon. Secretary of the local club, for carrying out the arrangements. For the youths and senior races at Nenagh, there was again a small attendance, with a £9 gate, and again a financial loss. To Sean Mounsey, Denis O'Brien and John Quill and company, they were indebted for the laying-out of a good course and attention to all arrangements.
The Track Field championship at Littleton, despite the fine summer, met an unfavourable day on 7th June. Because of this, spectators were very few, and the gate of £19 odd was insufficient to meet the expenses. Because of the Board's financial position, no medals were available for presentation on that day; but it was hoped to have them in the near future.

ALL-IRELAND CHAMPION.
Billy Dwyer, Holycross, was the champion in the senior All-Ireland cross-country, in a close finish from Pat Considine from Clare. He had been beaten by Considine for first place in the junior race three weeks earlier.

EMULATING MINOR HURLERS.
In the National Youths race at Dunleer, the Tipperary team again took first place. If they kept on like this, the secretary said-, they would soon be worthy emulators of the county minor hurlers.
In the Track and Field championships, the secretary stated, Tipperary athletes showed up well in both the Munster and National competitions.

DEFECTIONS.
Referring to inter-countv athletics, the secretary says he was sorry to say the Tipperary team, because of defections, was but a skeleton one, and entire unrepresentative of the county's best. Had all the chosen athletes turned out he was sure victory would have been theirs against Clare. Various
excuses were given by the absentees. He wished to compliment the Holycross Committee for the fine way in which they saw to all the arrangements.

DISCIPLINE NEEDED AT STARTS.
The secretary said there was much to be desired in the way of discipline at their own county cross-country races. Some teams showed a. lack of steadiness at the line-up, the result being a recall, or a series of recalls, before a legal start was accomplished. Disciplined teams should not be so panicky. He suggested that in future a dependable member of each competing club be detailed before the day of the race to, stand by his team at the starting line and to see to it that the team awaited the starter's
signal. The starting official could not know always who were the chief offenders in these illegal and undignified attempts to "beat the pistol."

REGISTRATION APATHY.
The athletes registration card rule should be strictly complied with. In. other counties this was done. Any athlete worthy of the name should be proud of his registration card yet some of their clubs had not as much as one registered member!

THE IMPORTANT POINT.
The point that really mattered, however, for the Association in the county was their critical financial position. Owing to all the competitions in which they were now taking part, their expenses in sending out teams was high, and until quite recently they were not able to pay their debts fully. Were they to continue to engage in these competitions under the existing financial circumstances? That would be a matter for the convention to decide. They were indebted to their good friends of the G.A.A. and a few other individual well-wishers for their financial support during the year,
without which they would still be debtors.
Tipperary Star, 31 October 1959.

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COOLCROO A.C. NOVICE LEAGUE

The following teams have been selected for Coolcroo A.C. [cross-country league which will commence in Two-Mile-Borris on Sunday, Nov. 8th at 2 p.m.
"A"-P. Coman, M. Maher, P. Woodlock, L. Hennessy, W. McKenna (Team Manager -
T. Ryan).
"B"-M, Meaney, S. Brolan, S. Bowe, J. Connolly, T. Kelly (Team Manager-P.
(Cussen).
"C"-J. Fogarty, Jas. Coman, D. Meaney, J. Grogan,, T. Woodlock. (Team
Manager-John Coman).
"D"- E. Fanning, C. Bowe, Joe Coman, J. Shea, P. Bourke. (Team Manager - H.
Morrissey).
Tipperary Star, 31 October 1959.

PEOPLE NOT NOW THRONGING TO ATHLETIC COMPETITIONS - TIPPERARY CO. CHAIRMAN

REFERRING to the present-day scientific approach to athletics (new techniques, training methods and schedules, rules for dieting, and the provision of special tracks, etc.) at the Co. Tipperary N.A.C.A. Convention in the Castle Hotel, Thurles, on Sunday, the Chairman (Mr Jim Ryan, N.T.,
Moneygall, re-elected unanimously) asked where the N.A.C.A. stood in this scene? We have a tradition, said Mr Ryan, going back deep to the springs of our history. The Red Branch Knights and The Fianna took great pride in athletic prowess. Jumping, javelin-throwing and long-distance running appear to have been their strong points. There has always been a great love for these
events in our country. But modern advances have not touched us as keenly as they might; the greatest difficulty is lack of support from the public and a consequent shortage of finance. There was a bigger number of delegates than usual present. Sixteen motions were on the agenda, and there was a full discussion on each, excepting seven Clonmel motions, which were struck out, as the Clonmel delegates had by that time left the Convention.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS
The outgoing President, Chairman, Sec., and Joint Treasurers were re-elected
unanimously, and (including other officers elected]) were:- President - Rev.
W. Noonan, C.C., Thurles; Vice-Presidents- Mr D. O'Brien (North:), Rev. Fr.
D. O'Meara, C.C., Moycarkey (Mid), Mr Mick Blake (South), Rev. J.
Lambe, C.C., Cashel, (West); Chairman-Mr Jim Ryan, N.T., Moneygall;
Vice-Chairman - Mr Phil Blake (Mid), Mr Michael Nash, Ballynonty club
(South), Mr Denis Ivers West), Mr Tom Dillon, Nenagh McDonagh (North); Sec.
Mr Mick Navin, Clonmel; Joint Hon. Treasurers -M. Navin and M. J. Kennedy.
Delegates to Congress - Jim Walsh, Jimmy O'Brien, Paddy O'Dwyer, Donal
Kealy. Delegates to Munster Convention- P. Dwan, Michael Kennedy, Fr.
Leonard Rockwell, (Holycross' John Lyons to go if Fr. Leonard is unable to
attend), Paddy Hassett and Paddy Dwyer.

REV. PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS
If discipline fails then half the value of athletics is gone. Enthusiasm there should be - it would be a sad day if that were lacking either among competitors or officials but it must be kept within bounds. If an excess of enthusiasm shows itself in a disregard for rules then it must be questioned, said Rev. W. Noonan, C.C., Thurles, in his Presidential address. Fr. Noonan first wished the delegates welcome and said he wished to express the hope their meeting would be a success and their discussions harmonious.

RECORDS NOT YARDSTICK OF ACHIEVEMENT
They had come together again from all over the county to look back on the work of the past year and to look forward and prepare for the coming year, said Fr. Noonan. They would recount their achievements and their disappointments. If they measured achievement by the yardstick of records or national titles they would find that they were few. He would have them think of it another way.
He would have them think of their purpose as an effort to interest the greatest number in taking an active part in athletics, in getting the greatest number of young lads out in singlet and shorts and taking good healthy exercise out of doors in a disciplined way, whether it be in practice or in competition.

THE REWARD
Think of the numbers that took part in the cross-country events at Nenagh, Horse and Jockey and Knockgraffon, said Fr. Noonan, There is achievement, there is something that you can be proud of, there is something that is a reward for the work that you are doing. In connection with cross-country running there was disappointment too, said Fr. Noonan. He noticed the Hon. Sec. again had to refer in his report to lack of discipline at the start of these races. Year after year the officials were finding more difficulty in preserving order. It was easy to understand that with so many taking part there would be some difficulty, but with co-operation from each team and its officials these difficulties should be overcome. Remember this, said Fr. Noonan, if discipline fails then half the value of athletics is gone. Enthusiasm there should; be - it would be a sad day if that was lacking either among competitors or officials - but it must be kept within bounds. If an excess of enthusiasm shows itself in a disregard for rules then it must be questioned.

NO GLAMOUR IN ORGANISING ATHLETICS
He would like to pay a tribute, said Fr. Noonan, to all of you who have come to Thurles to take part in the convention. He would like especially to pay tribute to their officials who were working away year after year to keep the flag flying. He believed a tribute was due "because at present there is no glamour in organising athletics in Tipperary, there is no popularity, no publicity, no kudos to be gained from it. It is entirely unselfish work." Men who give their ability and their time to it deserve praise, said the Rev. President. Tipperary had produced athletes of national and
international calibre in the past, and they would again in the future .
The Chairman thanked the delegates for re-electing him, and said, he had not been able to give his undivided attention, to the affairs of the Board during the year, but the Sec. had kept him informed of every stir. Of all the various forms of organised sport none received such widespread
international recognition and support as field and track athletics, said Mr Ryan.

THE URGE TO EXCEL
There is an, innate urge in human nature, to excel in feats of skill and strength, of speed and endurance. The modern organisation of events in, the athletic arena has been accepted air over the globe. Whether it be the Finns from near the Arctic Circle or Brazilians from the tropics; Pakistanis of eastern lands or Jamaicans from the West Indies - all enjoy the exhilaration of athletic competition and exert themselves in efforts to excel in one event or another. This century has witnessed extraordinary advances in athletic development, said Mr Ryan. The scientific age and what is known as power politics have had a great influence on these improvements. The scientific approach to athletics has brought new techniques, training methods and schedules, rules
for dieting, and special tracks, which are designed to bring athletes to a high peak of physical fitness, so that they will achieve a better standard of performance. Governments have contributed lavishly to provide coaches, tracks, and gymnasia, so that their athletes may score over their rivals and
establish an athletic supremacy. The result has been faster times, longer distances run, and record-breaking as the chief aim. Where do we (the N.A.C.A.) stand in this, asked the Chairman. We have the tradition, going deep back to the: springs of our history. The Red Branch Knights and the Fianna took great pride in athletic prowess. Jumping, javelin-throwing, and long-distance running appear to have been their strong points. There has always been a great love for these events in our country. But modern advances have not touched us as keenly as they might. The greatest difficulty is the lack of support from the public and a consequent shortage of finance.

PEOPLE NOT THRONGING IN
People are, not now thronging to the local field to see parochial or county champions contending, said Mr Ryan. There is a powerful incentive in the applause of the crowd. Better attendances would swell their coffers, and enable them to provide coaching, tracks, more competitions and other
improvements they would like. Isolated efforts were made by clubs, and individuals to coach and train and improve along modern lines, but for the most part they were working in face of apathy and lack of support.

CLUBS AND ATHLETES CONGRATULATED.
They congratulated all the clubs and individual athletes who were striving to overcome these difficulties, and who were training, competing, or organising sports meetings, said Mr Ryan. The secretary's report was a record of their principal achievements during the year. Among there were J.
Lalor, K. Prendergast and J. Keaty (National Championships), and S. Naughton, W. Dwyer and L. Gleeson (Munster titles). Nenagh man P. Naughton deserved special praise for again winning the decathlon championship. In cross-country they competed in seven inter-county events, resulting in
two wins, two seconds, and two thirds - which showed they were still in the front rank in these events, said the chairman. Holycross again had a wonderful year in winning four titles, and Nenagh
Olympic showed supremacy in track and field events by retaining the Tobin Cup. To these, all their clubs, and every athlete who competed during the year, he offered the congratulations of the Board, which held out encouragement to continue their efforts.

SUMMER SCHOOL OF ATHLETICS.
He would again recommend, said the chairman, that clubs endeavour to send one member to the Summer School of Athletics, which was doing wonderful work. The bulletin of the N.A.C.A. "Nuacht na Miosa," continued to carry interesting articles on modern techniques, and every club should have at least one copy monthly.

THANKS.
He had stressed the financial side very much; it might be considered he had dwelt too much on this aspect, but their activities were almost hamstrung by lack of sufficient funds. But for the support of staunch friends they could not continue with the annual programme. Once again they owed a debt of gratitude to the Dublin Tipperary men's Association, who had handsomely supported them; their interest was constant and/ loyal, and on behalf of the Board he expressed their sincere appreciation. The G.A.A. Boards were; also helpful and sympathetic. He thanked them for their sub., and also those who responded to the appeal. This help had enabled them to clear their debts, although they still owed medals to the track and field champions of 1959.

MORE DISCIPLINE.
The Secretary in his report, said the chairman, made a plea for more disciplinary "conduct at the start of their cross-country events. In this he heartily, supported the secretary. They all knew the kind of man the secretary was, and what he had been doing for the Board. The secretary
deserved to be held in high respect by the Board members and the athletes. His word should be law on these occasions. He (chairman) looked to them (the Board members) to see this recommendation was put into effect in the coming year. It was only as a disciplined body they could function properly, said Mr Ryan, and justify their existence. The Board looked for co-operation and
united effort by all in this. Let the appeal not be in vain. Rath Dia ar an obair.

TEMPLEMORE WELCOMED
Templemore, the "new club" of the fifteen or so clubs attending, were welcomed by the Chairman, who said they were an historic club, and were once very strong. He welcomed Ballynonty also, on their return. Arising out of the Sec's report, Mr W. Hyland (Clonmel) said they, among other clubs, had got no copy of the report; all they got was the agenda. The Chairman explained the cost of having copies of the report typed was prohibitive, in view of their financial position' (it cost £4-6-0 last year). They were "fairly pressed" for money. Mr Hyland (Clonmel) said there was one matter which had been left out of the report and should not have been - a fight at Knockgraffon. The matter arose over a runner who was supposed to have overbalanced, but he thought he had tripped. They should not be trying to hide such things, but should mention them at the Convention. As for funds, said Mr Hyland, the Board had every sympathy, but it was not the Co. Board that was paying for the teams to travel but the clubs.

ASKED TO WITHDRAW.
When asked to withdraw the remark, Mr Hyland said he read in the paper where in the Sec's report it stated the Board had paid the travelling expenses. The Chairman again asked Mr Hyland to withdraw his remarks on the Sec's report. The Sec. (Mr Mick Navin) said he would read the portion of the report in question. They were in dire financial straits because of the number of clubs they sent to meetings. The more travelling the more expense. Mr Hyland said the inference was the Board sent the teams, but his point was the clubs sent them; he would not withdraw. The Chairman said the Board paid for the food and the clubs' travelling expenses. Mr Hyland said he would prefer to pay for the food. The Chairman said they should adopt the report and then discuss it. Mr Hyland disagreed.

QUESTIONING PROCEDURE
Chairman - You attack the Sec's report and now you are questioning my ruling. That the report be adopted and then discussed, that is procedure. Mr Phil Blake (Moyne) said the matter would come up in the Treasurer's report anyway. When Mr Hyland still refused to withdraw, the Chairman said
he would have to ask him to leave that Convention. After some further comments Mr Hyland left.

TRY "SIXGUN" AS STARTER
Mr Martin Hackett (West) said the Sec. had made a very useful suggestion with regard to belated starts. There had been lack of discipline but it was not all the fault of the competing teams. The arrangements left a lot to be desired also. The "ammo" in the starting pistol could be improved.
Mr John Lyons (Holycross) said perhaps, a "six-gun" would be better (laughter) The Sec. said he had done his best to get the runners started, but they were gone 10 or 12 yards each time in a false start. He then decided to leave this (the junior) race till after the senior.

TOLD IN ROCKWELL
Rev. Fr. Leonard said they in Rockwell were told one of the, reasons the College did not compete in some Gaelic games was the lack of punctuality and organisation. If a rugby match was timed for 2.30 it would start at 2.30. A club that made a false start three times running should be disqualified.
That was the rule in ordinary track meetings.

SPECTATORS AT FAULT
Mr Denis O'Brien (North) said this was all right at a track meeting but at a cross-country, with perhaps 100 runners it was not possible. He felt it was the spectators fault and also those who urged the runners to "keep up to the front." Mr John Lyons (Holycross) said fixtures should start on time and whatever clubs were there on time should be "let go." It was not right having them wait in the cold for the latecomers. The Chairman said Mr O'Brien had hit the proper point when he said the
urging of athletes up to the front was at fault in these false starts. It was not worth tuppence to a team to be away first in a four miles race, and certainly not in a six mile. If they could only make the youngsters realise this... They should obey the starter, a man with 40 years experience.

WILL START TO TIME
He was "giving notice" now that club fixtures should start to time in the coming season.
Mr Pat Dwan (Cashel) said since the Sec. had, as he said, been "handed the gun" he should be official starter. Mr Pat Hassett said an electric fence would not have held back the youths at
Nenagh, It was agreed that Mr Mick Navin (Sec.) be official starter.

MOTIONS
A Holycross motion that all fixtures be made by the Co. Executive Committee (comprised of all the officers given above) was carried after discussion. Mr Dwan (Cashel) pointed out if clubs had the fixing of venues, they made the fixtures as suited themselves, with no regard for the finances of the
Board. Mr. Hackett (West) said he agreed with the motion as there was often a clash with a G.A.A. fixture and the Board knew which body would suffer at present.

NUMBER ON TEAMS TO REMAIN
A Holycross motion that no more than nine runners represent the Co. in Munster and National championships was defeated by a large majority (the Chairman considering it not necessary to count opposition to the motion). Mr Jn. Lyons (Holycross) said 12 men (with three subs) were too much to handle. Usually it depended on the nine and the others "only went around for the spin."
Mr Dwan felt it would be a greater incentive to the runners if the number was decreased. Up to now 15th place would entitle an athlete to be on the Co. team. Such a move would mean a saving in money also. Mr D. O'Brien said they had lost championships because the men down the field did not bother and did not train as they did not think they had a chance, not realising each man made a very great difference to the overall result. Fr. Leonard said 15 was really a big number. They could have three subs in case any of the nine dropped out. Moycarkey and Clonmel opposed the motion.
The Clonmel delegate said a lot of men would give anything to get on the team. Mr Lyons (Holycross) said the motion was for reasons of finance only; they too would love to see 13 men go. He felt there should be some arrangement to pick the strongest men when they went to' the All-Ireland senior and not have the young fellows up against the "old stagers,"

£5 FROM EACH CLUB - IF THEY CAN
A motion put forward by the County Executive, that each club contribute £5,to help the Board's finances and that "it be optional with each club how to raise the money such, as by church gate collection, dances, concerts etc.," was carried, after being amended to read "contribute as far as they are able."

NO FIXED RULE FOR FIXTURES
A Moycarkey motion "that the rule of one Co. fixture to each Division be abolished" was carried unanimously. Moycarkey said the reason, for the motion was that there was greater interest in cross-country running in some parts of the county than in others. Mr Hackett thought the weak parts of the county, should be considered also.

TEAM MANAGER FOR ALL CO. TEAMS
Cashel withdrew their motion that a team manager accompany all county teams to Munster and All-Ireland engagements, when the Chairman pointed out this was already provided for by rule.
Mr Dwan (Cashel) said there was no Team Manager for the youths at Dunleer. It was not the function of the Manager to 'rub' teams, said thee Chairman; although he might help out. His function was to supervise the team on behalf of the Co. Board as regards jerseys, numbers, etc. He was in charge of the team and responsible to the Board afterwards. Mr D. O'Brien said they had lost two Junior All-Irelands over not having a team manager.

THE FIASCO AT HOLYCR0SS
A Cashel motion, that competitors who qualify to represent the Co. at inter-county fixtures, be suspended for a period of twelve months if they fail, without legitimate reason, to attend, was passed unanimously after the wording was amended to read "selected," instead of "qualify."
It was agreed that the motion be sent to Munster Council. Mr Dwan said the motion referred chiefly to the fiasco at Holycross. It was a shame to put the Clare team to the expense of travelling on that occasion. It was a very important fixture and the cream of inter-county athletes were to attend. If any club got an athlete on the Co. team they considered it an honour but when they were given the honour, some of the athletes, picked the flimsiest of excuses for not attending. They should- be suspended if-it happened again. Mr P. O'Dwyer (Holycross) explained that Tipp had originally been asked by Clare to compete in Ennis, and it was only at random, he suggested Holycross. Because they were such good sports Clare said they would come. He canvassed every one of the players, invited, and some of the most prominent let them down.

COULD HAVE BEEN IN FINAL
Mr D. O'Brien said if Moroney, Prendergast and Paddy Naughton had competed Tipp. could have been in the final. Mr Jack Fogarty (Cashel) suggested a copy of the motion be sent to the athletes who had not a legitimate reason for not attending. The Chairman said they should leave it as it was; it would be in the Press. The Sec. said no athlete could be suspended until he was heard in his own
defence. It was stated that the Nenagh athletes competed that Sunday in, Westport. The Chairman said it was very difficult to suspend an athlete domiciled outside the county. Another thing was that the athletes came at their own expense: All were agreed the Holycross fixture was a calamity, as far as the county was concerned. He himself had communicated with the Nenagh club, and had told them in no uncertain terms, of his feelings in the matter. Mr Dwan asked "that the motion he sent to the central body. Nenagh Olympic did not turn up and they should be made an example of,

IN ANOTHER CLUB'S NAME
A Cashel motion that competitors affiliated to a club should not, under any circumstances, compete under another club's name was withdrawn, when the Chairman pointed out it was covered by the rules. Mr Dwan said there had been several cases where men had run under another club's name. Mr Hyland had mentioned the matter. Several times runners competed as Cashel Club members and got prizes when in fact they were not members of Cashel Club. Sec. - How did they get the Cashel colours. Mr. Dwan said anyone could get a red singlet. The Chairman said it vas a most unusual situation; that of runners forcing their attentions on clubs.

ALL-IRELAND JUNIOR AT KILLENAULE
A Coolquill motion that the All-Ireland junior championship be requested for a Tipp. venue, and held at Killenaule, was proposed by Mr W. Crowe, seconded by Mr Phil Blake and passed unanimously; It was agreed to try to implement the spirit of another Coolquill motion, that the starting place cross-country races be fenced off the same as the finishing as to keep off trespassers.
Mr W. Crowe said spectators and even members of the Co. Board were holding back runners at cross country races. When the pistol went they were still being held. Mr Lyons said the whole matter was the fault of the spectators; they should be made keep back. Mr. Phil Blake (Moyne) said that they should go back to the old method of the flagged start; with the pistol the runners were too
keyed up.
Tipperary Star, 7 November 1959.

HOLYCROSS A.C.
THE ANNUAL RACE
FOR ABBEY CUP
Will be run at HOLYCROSS
on Sunday, December 6th at 2.30 p.m.

Admission.............1/-

Tipperary Star, 28 November 1959.

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Coolcroo A,C. Team
The Coolcroo A.. team. for the "Abbey Cup" race at Holycross on Sunday will
be selected from the following :--
C. Bowe, S. Bowe, P. Bourke, P. Coman, J. Coman, E. Fanning, L. Hennessy, M.
Meaney, M. Maher, P. Woodlock, L. Ryan. T. Lloyd, T. Woodlock, J. Connolly,
Joe Coman, D. Meaney, J. Fogarty.
To facilitate those who wish to travel to Holycross, a bus will leave
Two-Mile-Borris a 12.30 (sharp) via Littleton.

The Coolcroo A.C. will hold their annual collection in Two-Mile-Borris on
Sunday.
Tipperary Star, 5 December 1959.
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"Abbey Cup" at Holycross
In a most exciting cross-country race at Holycross on Sunday for the Pat McKay "Abbey Cup" the local sextet retained the trophy from a strong running Coolcroo team. There was quite a large attendance despite the wet and wintry conditions. Coolcroo, as anticipated, made a bold bid for honours but Holycross produced a surprise winner in young Seamus Ryan. Seamus ran on the
youths team last year, and Sunday's impressive victory showed him to be a runner of promise.
Second man home was P. Coman, Coolcroo, who by his gallant effort, displayed the great heart one always associates with runners from the Coolcroo club. Holycross filled third place in the person of the well known Sarsfields hurler, Patsy Dorney. Patsy was on last year's winning team also.
Team placings were: 1st Holycross; 2nd Coolcroo; 3rd Cashel. The: winning team: S. Ryan, P. Dorney, P. Ryan,. K. Dwan, J. Bourke, T. Cooke.
The individual winner (lettered) was Billy Dwyer, Holycross, who received a special prize.
Tipperary Star, 12 December 1959.

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Novice Cross-Country at Two-Mile-Borris

A four mile novice cross-country race, promoted by Coolcroo A.C., will be held in Two-Mile-Borris on Sunday next, 3rd January, at 2:30p.m. With teams from Holycross, Ballincurry, Cashel, Coolquill, Ballynonty, Moycarkey, Ballytarsna, Templemore, Cahir, Clonmel and Coolcroo competing the event will be something in the nature of a of a “miniature county championship”.

In view of the forthcoming Co. novice fixture at Holycross on January 17th, next Sunday’s race will give clubs a chance of assessing their chances. Winners and runners-up will receive valuable prizes. The Coolcroo club is to be commended on the fact that there will be additional prizes for first and second man home. Granted a fine day the fixture should be largely attended.

Tipperary Star, 2 January 1960,

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*Cross-country*

Successful Racing At Two-Mile-Borris*

The open novice cross-country race promoted by Coolcroo Athletic Club at Two-Mile-Borris on Sunday, was highly successful. The large attendance cheered loudly as 17-year-old local youth, Con Bowe, breasted the tape ahead of another gallant runner, Michael Hickey, Cashel A.C. Bowe won a youths All-Ireland medal at Dunleer, Co. Louth, last year, and this nephew of former well-known Coolcroo runners Denis and Tom Kennedy, seems destined for a bright future in cross-country fields. Tipperary senior runner Pat Coman finished a good third, with another Coolcroo man Ed. Fanning in fourth position. When it was learned that Holycross and Moycarkey were without some of their best runners, it was left to the promising red-jerseyed boys of Cashel to provide Coolcroo with a stiff challenge in the team race. The newly-formed Ballynonty club gave an excellent account of themselves and had two runners in the first twelve. The winner completed the course a gruelling four miles in 26 min 30 sees.

Details:— 1, C. Bowe (Coolcroo); 2, M. Hickey (Cashel); 3, P. Coman Coolcroo);

4, E, Fanning (do.); 5, J. Bourke (Holycross); 6, J. Butler Moycarkey 7, D. Burke (Ballinonty); 8, P. Woodlock (Coolcroo); 9, P. Gooney (Ballytarsna);

1,         Coolcroo               16 points.        (1, 3, 4, 8)
2.         Cashel                   45 points.        (2, 12, 14, 17)
3.         Holycross              66 points.        (5, 18, 20, 23)
4.         Ballynonty            67 points.
5.         Moycarkey            78 points.
6.         Ballytarsna,           98 points.

Scoring four:—
Coolcroo:        C. Bowe, P. Coman, E. Fanning, P. Woodlock.
Cashel:            M. Hickey, T. Keeffe, D. Ivers, T. Barron.
Seventy started and fifty finished.

YOUTHS RACE

In a youths two miles invitation race: 1st P. Burke (Ballynonty); 2nd S.
Bowe (Coolcroo); 3rd T. Woodlock (do.).

Team result:— Ballinonty beat Coolcroo 33 points to 40.

The Coolcroo Club wish to thank Messrs John Duggan, "The Castle," and Mr John Mullaney, Skehana, who so kindly placed their lands at the disposal of the club; also all the teams who supported the fixture, the judges, starter and the stewards whose co-operation helped in the smooth running of the event, which was highly successful.

Tipperary Star, 9 January 1960.

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Pat Kealy - A Great Tipperary Athlete

With the death of Pat Kealy, Castle Avenue, Thurles, there passes from the scene one of the most outstanding all-round athletes Tipperary ever produced and a most interesting personality.

A native of Boulea, Ballingarry, Pat was at one time Sergeant in charge of the Umtali (South Rhodesia) Town Police. From the time that he left his native parish at the age of fourteen years up to his return on retirement Pat Kealy had, competed on four continents, winning over two hundred cups and countless medals. He was a personal friend of Arthur Newtown, considered by many to be the greatest marathon runner of all time. A great lover of sport Pat was an outstanding runner, walker, boxer and all-round athlete. He was also the possessor of the Royal Humane Life Saving Certificate. Another outstanding runner, John J. Barry, was born just a stone's throw away from the Kealy homestead.

AT SIXTEEN YEARS

Before emigrating Pat made his mark in Irish athletics when, at the age of sixteen years he finished third to Forrester and Strater of England in the Irish Walking Championship at Jones' Road (now Croke Park). He won a senior class gold medal in a six-mile cross-country in Dublin in 1899. Shortly afterwards he joined the South. African Constabulary and was stationed in Patchefstiom, Transvaal. Transferred to Bloemfontein he joined the
Bloemfontein Harriers and ran second to Charlie Heffern in the four-mile championship. The placings were the same in the ten mile flat championship in 1904. Heffern was one the: greatest all-round runners of that period.

SERVED IN EAST AFRICAN CAMPAIGN

1910 saw Pat run a race against a cyclist at Hobson Villa, Auckland, New Zealand (handicap) which he won. Two years later, he arrived in, Bulawayo where he helped* *to form the first Harriers club of which he became captain. During World War 1, he served as a Company :Sergeant Major in the Rhodesian native Regiment throughout the East African campaign.

PIONEER OF AMATEUR BOXING IN RHODESIA

Pat Kealy was generally recognised as the man who brought amateur boxing in Rhodesia to such a high standard. He was at one time or another boxing trainer to all the principal schools in Rhodesia. It would take many pages to describe Pat Kealy's athletic feats but the following are a few of the chief ones;

1—Lightweight champion boxer of Rhodesia from 1911 to 1921
2—Holder of ten miles flat championship of Rhodesia;
3—Represented O.R.C. in three miles walking championship at Johannesburg, in 1903.

Circumstances prevented him from participating in the 26 miles marathon race in the Olympic Games in London.

In retirement Pat Kealy's interest in sport never waned and for years in his capacity as Judge, his familiar figure could be seen at, mc local athletic events. While loath to discuss his own achievements in the fields of sport, he was ever willing to give of his help and experienced advice to budding athletic aspirants. May he rest in peace.

*Tipperary Star*, 16 January 1960, p. 2

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Entrants For Novice Cross-country at Holycross

The following have entered for the Co. Tipperary Championship Novice race at
Holycross on next Sunday (2.30).

Station 1—Cashel; 2—Ballynonty; 3—Coolcroo; - 4- Moycarkey; 5— Cahir;
6—Nenagh Olympic; 7— Coolquill; 8—Moyne; 9—Marlfield; 10—Ballincurry;
11-Ballincurry B; 12—Holycross; 13-Ballytarsna; 14—Clonmel; 15—Shannon
Rovers A; I6—Shannon- Rovers B; 17— Nenagh MacDonagh.

Also entered are the following “lettered” runners:— Michael Jour, Rockwell
College Club; Liam Hennessy, Coolcroo Club; John Coman do.; Patrick Burke,
do.; Tom Woodlock, do.; Frank Hughes, Ballincurry Club; Tom Ryan, do.; Pat
Gleeson, do; Wm. Purcell, do.; Dan Hogan, Moneygall.

The event has aroused widespread interest and with such a fine entry everything points to a thrilling race. Competitors are asked to note that any pushing or elbowing will earn prompt disqualification.

*Tipperary Star*, 16 January 1960, p. 2

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135 Runners in Co. Novice race at Holycross

The novice cross-country race at Holycross on Sunday surprised and delighted everyone by reason of the large entry, the record attendance, the favourable weather and the splendid course in such pleasing surroundings.
It was probably the largest field— 135—ever in this competition, which reflected much credit on runners, the Co. Board; and the home club, Holycross.

Gate receipts were a record for the competition, and great thanks is due the landowners over whose land the race was run. : .

Memories of former glorious days were recalled when Coolcroo club romped over the four mile course in convincing style.

Packing their scoring four into the leading group, the Coolcroo men beat last year's champions, Holycross, by a 34-point margin, to register their first victory since their reinstatement to N.A.C.A. ranks last year.

INDIVIDUAL WINNER.

The individual winner was 18-year-old Michael Hickey from Cashel, with Seamus Ryan, Holycross, second, and Pat Coman, Coolcroo third.

Ten “lettered” runners, not eligible for these county honours, but competing for their places on the county twelve for next Sunday's Munster novice championship at Millstreet, Co. Cork, dominated the race and captured six of the twelve team vacancies.

Details:

INDIVIDUAL RESULT

1— Larry Phelan, Holycross (lettered).
2— Kevin Dwan, Holycross (lettered).
3— Frank Hughes, Ballincurry (lettered).
4— Michael Hickey, Cashel.
5— Seamus Ryan, Holycross;
6— Patsy Dorney, Holycross (lettered).
7— Pat Coman, Coolcroo,
8— Con. Bowe, Coolcroo
9— Patsy Fitzgerald, Ballincurry.
10 - Dinny Ivers, Cashel.
11 — Phil Maher, Holycross (lettered).
12 — Willie Purcell, Ballincurry (lettered).
13—John Butler, Moycarkey.
14—Sean Ryan, Cahir.
15—Eddie Fanning, Coolcroo.

Winner's time, 26 mins. 3 secs. 135 competed; 103 finished.

TEAM RESULTS.

1—Coolcroo (27 pts.)
2—Holycross (61)
3—Ballincurry A. (73)
4—Ballynonty (91)
5—Cahir, (94)
6—Clonmel (101)
7—Cashel (107)
8—Coolquill-(122)
9—Moycarkey (166)
10—Nenagh McDonagh (180)
11—Ballytarsna (204)
12- Shannon Rovers A. (227)
13—Nenagh Olympic (311)

Seventeen teams competed.

Incomplete — Moyne; Marlfield; Ballincurry B., and Shannon Rovers B.

*Tipperary Star*, 23 January 1960, p. 2

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Tipperary Win Munster Novice Team Honours

Tipperary had an easy victory in the Munster Novice Cross-country at Millstreet, Co. Cork, on Sunday, with six men out of the first ten. Pat Whelan, Lismore was the first man home. In all there was a field of 72. At the end of the first lap Charlie Shea, of Kerry had a short lead from three Tipperary men – Patrick Dorney, Lee Phelan, and F. Hughes, with Ted Sullivan, of Kerry, lying fifth, J. O’Mahony of Cork, sixth.
Next time round Shea was still out in front, Dorney was second but O’Mahony had moved to third place, having Pat Whelan of Waterford, who was no better than tenth in the first lap, in fourth place. F. Hughes and K. Dwan of Tipperary were fifth and sixth. Whelan was ten yards in front of Shea as the bell rang for the last lap. Hughes was third, twenty yards back, and Dwan fourth at fifty yards. T. Murphy of Waterford, here lay fifth, followed by Dorney, Noel Joyce of Limerick and O’Mahony of Cork.

FINISHING ORDER.

The first twelve home were:
1—P. Whelan (Waterford).
2—C. Shea (Kerry)
3—F. Hughes (Tipperary)
4*— *K. Dwan (Tipperary)
5—L. Phelan (Tipperary)
6—-D. Ivers (Tipperary)
7—T. Murphy (Waterford)
8—P. Murphy (Cork)
9—C. Bowe (Tipperary)
10—P. Dorney (Tipperary)
11—B. O'Gorman (Cork)
12—P. O'Regan (Limerick)

This result gave Tipperary a facile victory in the team competition, with a score of 37. Cork scored 88 points to finish second; Limerick were third with 121 points, and the other counties' scores were: Clare, 167 points; Waterford, 180 points and Kerry, 234 points. Sixty runners finished the course.

*Tipperary Star*, 30 January 1960, p. 2

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Thurles Runner One of World’s Best

Denis O'Gorman, 31 year-old Thurles-born athlete, led the field home in the "*Herts Advertiser*" sports personality of the year competition.
Denis won the Windsor to Chiswick Polytechnic marathon in June and rounded off a great season in marathon running when he finished second to the Russian European champion, Sergie Popov, in the Kosice event in October. He is the holder of the British Empire 15-mile track record and has represented Ireland and Great Britain. O'Gorman is considered one of the top marathon runners in the world says the "*Herts and St. Albans Times*."

He will be presented with the Sports Personality of the Year trophy by Brian Hewson, britain's top athlete. Both himself and O'Gorman are likely Olympic candidates.

*Tipperary Star*, 30 January 1960, p. 7.

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Coolcroo Win Co. Junior Cross-country Title.

Twelve clubs were represented and 140 runners took part in the Co Tipperary Junior Cross-country Championship at Cashel on Sunday. Frank Hughes, Ballincurry, who led from the start was the individual winner and the team award went to Coolcroo (48 pts.). Ballincurry were second (93) and Holycross third (154).
The Munster Junior takes place at Thurles (Holycross road) next Sunday.

The weather was cold and dry and there was a very large attendance. The course only a quarter of a mile from the town was ideal. It was a colourful spectacle as the 140 competitors started on their six mile journey. From the start, Frank Hughes (Ballincurry) took the lead and held it to the finish, being closely followed by Pat Coman and Con:Bowe of the Coolcroo Club. D. Ivers of Cashel was fourth, S. Ryan, Holycross 5th; P. Woodlock, Coolcroo, 6th; M. Hickey, Cashel, 7th;: E. Fanning, Coolcroo, 8th; P. Kehoe, Ballincurry, 9th; M. O’Shea do., 10th; P. Maher, Holycross 11th; P. Fitzgerald, 12th
The competing clubs were: Cahir, Coolcroo, Shannon Rovers, Clonmel, Coolquill, Rockwell College, Moycarkey, Ballincurry , Cashel, Holycross, Ballinonty, and a group composed of three Moyne entries, three additional Ballincurry entries and six Holycross entries.

Team placings were:-—

Coolcroo 48 points; Ballincurry 93 points; and Holycross 154 points

CO. BOARD MEETING

Mr James Ryan, Moneygall, presided at a meeting of the N.A.C.A. Co. Board held after the race. He congratulated the competitors on their very fine display, especially Frank Hughes of Ballincurry, the individual winner. The first twelve home, he said, would represent the: County in the Munster Junior Cross-country Championship at Thurles next Sunday and in the All-Ireland Senior at Killenaule the following Sunday (21st).

The Chairman also congratulated the Co. Tipperary Novice team upon their great success in winning the Munster championship. He congratulated Frank Hughes (Ballincurry) upon his fine performance that day, and also Coolcroo on their success in winning the team prize. He welcomed the new as well as the old clubs who had done so much for cross-country running and expressed satisfaction at the enthusiasm that was evidenced by all the teams.

The Chairman complimented the Cashel club upon the excellence of the arrangements, and thanked the land-owners: for their valuable assistance. He looked forward confidently to their selection giving a good account of themselves in both the Munster and All-Ireland Junior Tests.

Presenting the silver cup, he congratulated Coolcroo on its success. He felt sure the members would find pleasure in taking it home for the first time, as it was the first time it had been put up for competition. They would, he felt, make a strong bid to retain it next year.

The Coolcroo captain suitably thanked the Chairman.

GIFT OF JERSEYS

The Chairman said he was very pleased to inform the meeting that Mr Kevin Dwan, Holycross had presented the Board with a set of jerseys for their team. It gave him much pleasure to propose a vote of thanks to Mr Dwan, who was a fine sportsman and a good supporter of cross-country running. Mr Dwan had sent best wishes for the team. Mr. M. Kennedy, Thurles seconded. The motion was passed with acclamation.

*Tipperary Star*, 13 February 1960, p. 2.

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Ballincurry A.C. to Hold Tournament

There was a big attendance at the annual general meeting of Ballincurry A.C. Mr Rd. Leahy, Chairman, welcomed the members and congratulated the runners and trainer on their fine achievements during the season. He thanked the members and everyone who had helped to make.; it such a successful year.
The Treasurer's (Mr Thos. Ryan) report showed the club to be in a sound financial position.

BEST SEASON EVER

Mr. Donal Kealy, Sec., gave details of the activities, athletic and social, undertaken by the club. He stated that never before in a cross-country season had so many medals been won by Ballincurry (one first and three seconds in the Co. Championships).

MONSTER HURLING TOURNAMENT

The Sec. announced plans for the annual “Gala Time”. It will be held this year from May 15th to 26th. There will be a monster senior hurling tournament for the O’Brien Perpetual Cup and a set of Philishave electric razors. The first game will be played on May 8. Thurles Sarsfields, Mount Sion, Faythe Harriers, John Lockes, St. Aidans and Bennettsbridge will compete.

OFFICERS
Officers for the coming year are— Patrons—Very Rev. M.J. Lee, P.P.; Rev. J. McGrath, C.C.;
President—Dr. Ml. Breen; Vice-Presidents—Messrs Denis J. Croke andMichael Kealy;

Chairman—Mr Rd. Leahy; Vice-Chair men—Messrs Jas. McGrath and William Keogh; Treasurer—Mr Thos. Ryan; Asst. do.—Mr Thos. Simpson;
Secretary —Mr Donal Kealy; Asst. Secretaries —Messrs Jas. Murray and P. Connell;
Delegates to Convention— Messrs Rd. Leahy, Donal Kealy, Patrick Maher,

Trainer— Mr William Keogh; Hall Caretaker—Mr Thos. O'Brien.

A vote of sympathy was passed in silence to all members who suffered bereavements during 1959.

*Tipperary Star*, 13 February 1960, p. 3.

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*Cross-country*

Munster Junior Race to be Run Again

Almost all of the sixty runners taking part in the Munster junior cross-country championships at Thurles on Sunday failed to keep to the six miles course but took short-cuts in four out of the five laps. This was stated at a meeting of the Munster Athletics Council at Glenmorgan
House, Thurles, following the race when it was decided to declare null and void the team placings, in which Tipperary were first home. Teams from Waterford, Limerick, Clare and Cork also took part. Of the individual placings it was decided that only the first, Fintan Walsh of Waterford, be recognised.

It was agreed that he was the only one who could be vouched for as having kept outside the flags though some delegates maintained that the position of one particular flag was altered by a steward, thus shortening the course. Delegates also criticised the layout of the course, which, at one point was flagged in the centre of a field and maintained that the course should be from ditch to ditch. Stewarding, generally, was also criticised.

SHOULD BE NULL AND VOID
Mr. D. Browne, Clare, President of the Munster Council, presiding, suggested that in view of the breach of the rules by most of the runners, the race be declared null and void altogether.
Mr Billy O'Dwyer, Thurles, did not see why it should be when all of the runners did it. He proposed that the race be decided on the day's results. Several members maintained that Fintan Walsh had kept to the flagged course throughout the race and Mr Browne said that they felt very much for the athlete who did complete the course and maybe they would be able to make some award to him. If only four or five runners completed the course, they
could not: declare team winners. Mr P. Dwan, one of the stewards said that the course was definitely not adhered to by most of the runners. Mr Browne—It is hard to ask any of those who did complete it, to rerun the race again. We should consider that as well as the fact that the winner defeated those who endeavoured to gain advantage on him by short-cutting.

VICTIMISING INNOCENT WITH THE GUILTY

Mr Hyland, Clonmel, said that unless the stewards could name those who short-cutted, the result should stand. Why should they victimise the innocent as well as the guilty. Members pointed out that no steward could possibly take the numbers of every, one who did not keep to the course.
It was decided, on a show of hands, to declare the team placings null and void and following further discussion it was similarly decided to declare' all the individual placings, except first place, null and void also.

TO BE RE-RUN MARCH 20th
The race will be re-run at the same venue on March 20th to decide team and other individual placings. First home will get second place in the Munster championship, second will be third, etc. Mr Tom Ryan,, Thurles, assured the meeting that he would see to it that there would be no fault in the stewarding on the next occasion. It could have been avoided on Sunday, also, he said, had he been able to be there but he had to be on the gate instead. Mr Hyland suggested that they have a couple of stewards — from different counties - at each location.

*Tipperary Star*, 20 February 1960, p. 2.

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Louth First, Tipp. Third

Record “Gate” at All-Ireland Junior

A record crowd in most favourable weather at Killenaule on Sunday witnessed an exciting finish in the All-Ireland Junior Cross-country. Louth won both individual and team, honours, while Tipperary came third in the team placings in a close finish with Wexford, who came second. Over a well laid out course on the lands of Mr J. J. Delaney of Roan, Killenaule, the event must rank as one of the best organised cross-country races ever held in the provinces.
Coolquill athletic club had charge of all arrangements, and to this enterprising club, spearheaded by Mick Blake, secretary (former All-Ireland champion), must go full honours for a most successful promotion. The gate (proceeds £115), constituted an, All-Ireland record, the next best being £98-14-0 at Powerstown Park in 1956., .

11 COUNTIES, 120 RUNNERS
Eleven counties, represented by 120 runners, started and from the outset the race developed into a triangular contest between Louth, Wexford and Tipperary, with Pat Boylan of the 'wee' county, Arthur McGavock (Derry) and Tom Ryan of Wexford fighting out the individual honours. Frank Hughes of Ballincurry was prominent in the early stages, but dropped back as the race progressed.

TIPP'S LEADING RUNNER

Tipperary's leading runner was Dominick Ryan of Moneygall who finished sixth. The Munster champion, Fintan Walsh (Waterford) was a non-starter, but his team-mate, Pat Whelan (Munster novice champion) finished in twelfth place.

Individual result:—
(1) Pat Boylan (Louth)
(2)* *Arthur McGavock (Derry)
(3) Tom Ryan (Wexford).
(4) Dan Halloran (Clare).
(5) Noel Hendrick (Wexford).
(6) Dominick Ryan (Tipperary).
(7) Willie Shine (Cork).
(8) Matt Fitzgerald (Limerick).
(9) Mick Dawe (Louth).
(10) Joe Maguire (Wexford).
(11) Kevin Dwan (Tipperary).
(12) Pat Whelan (Waterford).

Winner's time 32 mins., 6 sees. Won by 3 yards; 1 1/2 yards
One hundred and twenty competed; 76 finished.

Team result:—
(1) Louth (1, 9, 14, 16, 19, 21)— 80 points;
(2) Wexford (3, 5, 10, 15, 18, 32)—83 points;
(3) Tipperary (6, 11, 13, 17, 20, 22)—89 points;
(4) Cork (7, 23, 26, 30, 35, 42)—163 points;
(5) Clare (4, 34, 37, 38, 46, 50)—209 points;
(6) Galway—210 points;
(7) Limerick—250 points;
(8) Dublin—282, points.
Incomplete — Derry, Laois and Waterford.

FIXTURES
6/3/'60: Tipp. senior and youths (Moyne);
13/3/'60: Munster senior and youths (Kilmallock);
20/3/'60: Munster junior (Thurles);
27/3/'60: All-Ireland senior and youths (Limerick).

*Tipperary Star*, 20 February 1960, p. 2.

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Holycross Six in First Twelve

Holycross with six runners in the first twelve, won the Co. Tipperary senior cross-country title at Moyne on Sunday. Their crack runner Billy Dwyer retained his county title for the third successive year when he won the individual event from J.J. Burke of Ballincurry with Sean Hayden, Moyne, “in the running” again, after an absence of a year, in third place.
Senior Team placings-1 Holycross (W. O'Dwyer, K. Dwan, P. Maher, P. Dorney, L. Phelan, S. Ryan), 38 points; 2, Ballincurry (J.J. Burke, W. Purcell, P. Fitzgerald, T. Ryan, F. Hughes, J. Sparrow), 79; 3, Coolcroo (E. Fanning, L. Ryan, J. Fogarty, S. Brolan, M. Maher, J. Coman), 121; 4, Cahir,198. Nine teams competed; only four finished.
Individual placings: 1. W. O'Dwyer, Holycross; 2. J.J. Burke, Ballincurry; 3. S. Hayden, Moyne; 4. D. Ryan, Moneygall; 5. K. Dwan, Holycross; 6. Phil Maher, Holycross, 7. P. Dorney, Holycross, 8. L. Phelan, do.; 9. W. Purcell, Ballincurry; 10. P. Fitzgerald, do.; 11. S. Ryan, Holycross; 12. E. Fanning, Coolcroo.
This twelve will represent Tipperary in the Munster Senior Championship at Kilmallock on Sunday with the following subs: T.Ryan, Ballincurry; P. Keane, Holycross; Pat Ryan, do.

Youths: Team Placings - 1, Ballincurry, 103 points; 2, Cashel, 137; 3, Coolquill, 146; 4, Coolcroo, 165; 5, Ballynonty 196; 6, Moyne, 305. Sixteen teams competed.

Individual Placings-1, F. Hughes, Ballincurry; 2, M. Hickey, Cashel; 3, C. Bowe, Coolcroo; 4, P. Fitz¬gerald, Ballincurry; 5, H, O'Brien, do.; 6, J. McDonagh, Coolquill; 7, T. Cooke, do.; 8, T. Barron, Cashel; 9, J. Butler, Moycarkey; 10, P. Woodlock, Coolcroo; 11,P. Burke, Ballynonty; 12, M. O'Gorman, Cahir.
With subs. E. O’Brien, Cahir; M. Bannon, Moycarkey and M. Flanagan, Ballytarsna, they will represent Tipperary in the Munster Youths Championship at Kilmallock.

Tipperary Star, 12 March 1960, p.2.

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Tipp. Win Munster Junior Again

Tipperary proved their mastery when they won the 1960 Munster junior
cross-country title for the second time this season at The Commons,
Thurles, on Sunday.

The race had been declared void (except for the first individual place,
awarded to F. Walsh. Waterford), when run four weeks ago, at the same
venue, because, of short-cutting by most of the runners.

Tipperary were first in the team event then and showed their superiority when
the race was re-run again on Sunday. They defeated Cork with Limerick,
the only other competitors, finishing with an incomplete team.
Cork had the first runner to complete the course, but only got second place, as first place goes to Fintan Walsh since the last day.

Results:-
Individual placings - 1, Fintan Walsh, Waterford, (previously decided); 2, W. Shine, Cork; 3, J. Downes, Limerick; 4, P. Dorney, Tipperary; 5, D. O'Connor, Cork; 6, C. Bowe, Tipperary.
Team Placings - 1. Tipperary (P. Dorney, C. Bowe, L. Phelan, K. Dwan, M. Hickey and S. Ryan: 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10 - 37); 2, Cork (W. Shine, D. O'Connor, D. O'Leary, J. Twomey, T. Coughlan, C. McCarthy: 1, 3 ,5, 9, 11, 13 - 42).
The Thurles stewards had ensured that there would be no repetition of the complaints (voiced following the original race) with regard to either stewarding of the layout of the course (kindly given by Mr Thady Dwyer). Everything was in ship shape order and the “re-run” went off without a hitch.

Tipperary Star, 26 March 1960, p. 3.

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Billy Dwyer Wins For Tipperary
By “Winter Green”

Billy Dwyer of Holycross was in magnificent form in the Munster senior
cross-country championship at Kilmallock on Sunday and scored a
runaway victory to give Tipperary the individual title. With John
Burke second it is somewhat surprising that Tipperary failed to take
team honours as well, but so well did Limerick pack behind our leaders
and before a rather weak Tipperary tail, that they snatched the team
award from under our very noses by a small margin. Our youths won both
the individual and team titles but were disqualified.

Nearly did it.
We very nearly brought off a grand-slam of cross country titles at Kilmallock last Sunday. With the youths title already in the bag and with Billy Dwyer of Holycross leading John Burke home to a comfortable one-two in the senior, it looked as if we must take the senior award as well. We lost it to Limerick by a very small margin. They packed too well for us, and our tail was somewhat weak, and thereby hung the tale. I suppose it would sound like greediness to grumble.

Cashel Youth’s Fine Race
Minor surprise of the youths event was that Michael Hickey of Cashel finished first in front of Frank Hughes, but Hickey has been running real well all the year and his title was bound to come.

Tipperary Star, 19 March 1960, p. 2.

STUDENT ATHLETICS AT ROCKWELL COLLEGE

Thurles and Templemore Christian Brothers Schools are sending athletes to compete in the East Munster Colleges Sports at Rockwell College oil Sunday (2.30). In all some eight colleges in counties) Waterford and Tipperary will be competing.

The other colleges who are to take part are St. Augustine’s, Dungarvan, De La Salle, Waterford, High School, Clonmel, Mount Melleray and Mount Sion, Waterford, and- the promoting college, Rockwell.

STANDARD RISING

Ever since the sports were inaugurated some years ago the standard has been rising steadily; some of those who secured an East Munster title have gone on to win national honours. Kevin Prendergast of Clonmel and Rockwell is one of the most outstanding athletes to compete at the sports in recent years; he is holder of, the East Munster discus (146 ft. 8 ins.), 12 lb. shot (52 ft. 7 ins.) and javelin (152 ft. 9f ins.) titles.

On Sunday another athlete of equal ability, Hugh O’Callaghan of Clonmel High School (son of Dr. Pat O’Callaghan, Olympic hammer-thrower) will try to break Prendergast’s records. Hugh’s brothers, Pat, Terry and Brian, have all made their mark, in College athletic championships at Munster and All-Ireland level. Brian recently won the all-round championships at Cork University Sports.

CLONMEL STUDENT ATHLETES SUCCESS

While Rockwell College took most of the honours at the East Munster Colleges Sports on Sunday last, Clonmel High School athletes did extremely well in all events, as well as supplying a number of seconds and thirds.

Hugh O’Callaghan, son, of Dr. Pat O’Callaghan, the Olympic hammer-thrower, brought off a fine treble in the senior grade, winning, the 12 lb, shot; hop, step and jump, and javelin events. He set up a new record in the latter event with a, throw of 158 ft. 6½ ins. This distance is over 20 feet further than the throw that won the same event in the North Munster Sports in Limerick on the same date.

Perhaps the most outstanding young athlete of the day; however, was Robert Widger, son of Mr and Mrs A. Widger, Mitchel St., Clonmel, who won four titles in all, and qualified to meet in the Munster Sports by being second in the 100 yards junior event.

Widger won the intermediate discus and javelin, events; and the junior long jump and 7 lb. shot. His throw in the junior javelin event would have earned him second place in the senior competition.

Glorious weather favoured the annual sports and drill display of Templemore C.B.S. at the Town Park on Sunday. The large attendance thoroughly enjoyed the proceedings.

This annual event is now well established in public esteem. Highlight of the evening, is of course the drill display. On Sunday an innovation was hurley drill which should be seen to be really appreciated and a new standard of efficiency was reached in the gymnastic display.

The parade of all the students from the schools, headed by their own flageolet band, was a very colourful display.

Mick Coates’ orchestra gave of their best during the various drill exercises. Mr A. J. Regan on the “mike” supplied an interesting commentary.

At the conclusion of the competitions, Rev. Bro. Scully, Superior, congratulated the students on their splendid display, the parents, donors of prizes, the judges, officials, Mick Coates and his orchestra and all who assisted in any way.

A total of 54 competitors including seven ladies provided an exciting 22 mile road race (walking) from Templemore to Borrisoleigh, Thurles and back to Templemore on Sunday. The interest in the race exceeded all expectations.

Pre-race opinion was that the course would hardly be completed, but few had reckoned with the grit and determination of the competitors, 32 of whom finished.

A large crowd at the Town Hall saw them off. The 54 competitors, lined up across the road, were started by Rev. P. J. O'Grady, C.C. Within one mile of Templemore Sean Callaghan, Patrick Cleary, Joseph Carey and John Caesar had established a clear lead over the rest of the field. This quartet, who were walking abreast, were setting a cracking pace, and at about the three mile stage Joseph Carey was reported by the stewards for running, and was disqualified.

Callaghan, Cleary and Caesar continued to stride out at a hot pace, with the rest of the field now well strung out behind.

Coming into Borrisoleigh, the order was still the same, the leaders strode in abreast to a great ovation from the large crowd awaiting them there.

The amazing time taken by the leaders from Templemore to Borrisoleigh was 1 hour 3 minutes. The two Clonmel men—Hogan and Hartigan—were next into Borrisoleigh, seven minutes behind the leaders, and they were closely followed by J. Hennessey, J. Newe, R. Conroy, R. Fitzgerald, T. Maher, J. Callanan, M. McCoy, Garda O’Riordan, Jer Ryan, W. Long, Jim Newe, M. Fahy, and Nora O’Grady, with the rest of the field scattered between Borrisoleigh and Summer Hill Cross. The leading group continued to walk abreast into Ragg, where again a tremendous reception awaited them.

As they left the Ragg and faced the long straight, to Killinan Hill, the pace began to tell. P. Cleary here established a clear lead of 100 yards over S. Callaghan, who, in turn, was now 50 yards ahead of J. Caesar, with R. Fitzgerald and T, Maher now well up and gradually closing on the leaders. They were followed by Hogan and Hartigan, both walking very easily, with Hennessy, Conroy, J. Newe, J. Callanan, Garda O’Riordan, Nora O’Grady. W. Long, Ml. McCoy, J. Maher all still in the race, with a chance.

Into Thurles, Cleary still held his lead of 100 yards, but T. Maher and R. Fitzgerald had now passed Caesar and Callaghan, and the order into Liberty Square was Cleary, Maher, Fitzgerald, Callaghan and Caesar, with the rest of the field about four minutes behind, headed by Hartigan, Hogan, Hennessy, J. Newe, R. Conroy, Nora O’Grady and W. Long. Outside Thurles, Maher retired, and Cleary now held 120 yards of a lead over Fitzgerald.

The Clonmel men Hogan and Hartigan, now began to quicken their pace, and between the creamery and No. 7 bridge they had overhauled Callaghan and Fitzgerald.

Cleary still held his 100 yards lead, with Hogan and Hartigan now jointly second. Then came Callaghan, Fitzgerald, Caesar, Hennessy, Newe, Conroy, Callanan, Mc-Coy, J. Maher, O’Riordan, Ryan and Nora O’Grady, the only lady still left in the race.

Three and a half miles from home, Cleary, who was complaining of cramp, began to wilt, and Hogan and Hartigan, who were obviously biding their time, now made their effort and overtook Cleary.

The battle royal began, as the two Clonmel men tried to outpace one another, with the tiring Cleary still fighting gamely to stay with them. Excitement was at fever pitch in Templemore, where the crowd awaiting the finishers was unprecedented.

Through Whitefield into Manna the order was still the same, with Hogan and Hartigan fighting a great duel. With fifty yards to go, Hogan edged slightly ahead, and in a terrific finish won by five yards, from Hartigan, with a distressed Cleary, three minutes further behind. The winner’s time for the 22 miles was 4 hours 18 minutes.

A special word of praise is due to Miss Nora O’Grady, the only lady to finish the course.

Despite the thunder, lightening, and heavy rain on Sunday morning, and gloomy skies in the forenoon, the afternoon “turned up trumps” for the Co. Tipperary N.A.C.A. Championship ad Athletic Sports, in Leahy Park, Cashel.

Most of the competitions were closely contested, the margins being very narrow, particularly in the sprints.

J. Lalor, Carrick holder of the 100 title, was led to the tapes by a mere half foot, by S. Naughton, Nenagh, in the good time of 9.8 secs.

Lalor reversed the placings in the 200 yards. This was another thrilling race, and the winning margin a foot.

W. O’Dwyer, Holycross, was in great form, winning easily both the one mile and three miles.

A treble was registered by H. O’Callaghan, Clonmel son of Dr. P. O’Callaghan, former Olympic champion. This promising young athlete had wins in the shot, discus and long jump, and was second in the javelin event.

There were exciting finishes in the four cycling races, P, Barragry, Cahir, giving great displays of fast riding in the half-mile, one mile, and three miles. He had to yield second to M. Peters, Ardfinnan, in the two miles.

All the arrangements were carried through with facile smoothness, and the full programme was finished in record time.

The Cashel Sportsfield Committee and the local Athletic club co-operated wholeheartedly with the N.A.C.A. County Board, the beautiful arena being placed gratuitously at the disposal of the zealous organising committee.

Details: 100 yards—S. Naughton (Nenagh) 1; J. Lalor (Carrick) holder, 2; O. Naughton (Nenagh) 3. 9.8 sees.

220 yards – J. Lalor (Carrick), 1: S. Naughton (Nenagh), 2; O. Naughton (Nenagh), 3. 23.9 secs.

440 yards—D. Murphy (Nenagh), 1; J. C. Quinn (Tipperary), 2; W. Gaffney (Nenagh). 3 49.07 secs.

880 yards—W. Gaffney (Nenagh), 1; A. Minogue (Nenagh), 2; P. O’Keefe (Marlfield), 3. 2 mins. 31 secs.

One Mile—W. O’Dwyer (Holycross); 1; J. Burke (Ballynonty), 2; S. Ryan (Holycross), 3. 4 mins. 23 secs.

Three Miles—W. O’Dwyer (Holycross), 1; J. Burke (Ballynonty), 2; S. Ryan (Holycross) 3. 13 mins. 42 secs.

High Jump—M. O’Beirne (Dundrum), 5 ft. 3 ins., 1; J. Keating (Clogheen) and T. O’Dwyer (Moycarkey) tied at 5ft 2ins. Keating won second place on a draw from a hat.

Long Jump — H. O’Callaghan (Clonmel), 19 ft. 9in 1; A.P. O’Neill (Templemore) 18ft. 11½ ins., 2; L. Gleeson (Nenagh) 18ft. 5ins., 3.

Shot —H. O’Callaghan (Clonmel), 44 ft. 1 in., 1; S. Naughton (Nenagh), 31 ft. 3 ins., 2; O. Naughton (Nenagh), 30ft. 3 ins. 3.

Discus—H. O’Callaghan (Clonmel), 115 ft. 10 ins., 1; L. Gleeson (Nenagh), 107 ft. 10 ins., 2; M. Kennedy (Clonmel), 103 ft. 3 ins., 3.

Javelin — L. Gleeson (Nenagh), 161 ft. 3 ins., 1. H.. O'Callaghan (Clonmel), 156 ft. 1 hi, 2;_; R. Widger (Clonmel), 118 ft. 2 iris., 3.

56 Ibs.— J. Bradshaw (Cullen). 23 ft: 4½ ins., 1; J. Phelan (Ballincurry), 22ft. 4 ins., 2; H. O’Callaghan (Clonmel), 21 ft. 7 ins. 3.

Half-mile—P. Barragry (Cahir) 1;.,M. Peters (Ardfinnan) 2; B. Hackett (Ardfinnan) 3.

Mile—P. Barragry (Cahir) 1; M. Peters (Ardfinnan), 2; B. Hackett (Ardfinnan), 3.

Two Miles—M. Peters (Ardfinnan), 1; P. Barragry (Cahir), 2; J. Nugent (Cahir) 3.

Three Milee—P. Barragry (Cahir) 1; B. Hackett (Ardfinnan) 2; M. Peters (Ardfinnan), 3.

220 yards—W. Nolan 1: P. O’Sullivan (Cashel) 2; M. Ryan (Nenagh), 3. 24.03 secs.

Javelin — R. Widger (Clonmel) 113ft 10ins., 1; M. Ryan (Nenagh) 96ft 2ins, 2; P. Kelly (Nenagh) 91 ft. 1½ ins., 3.

At the Munster Championships Sports at Macroom last Sunday, the young Carrick-on-Suir sprinter, John Lalor, ran a great hundred yards and won in 9.9 sees. He then went on to win the 220 in 23.1 sees.

Cork will represent Munster in the All-Ireland championships, as they readily defeated the other counties competing, having 76 points to spare over Tipperary, their nearest rivals.

Inter-county award—1, Cork 117 pts.; 2, Tipperary 39 pts.; 3, Limerick 29 pts.

Clonoulty sports proved a huge success and fully rewarded the promoters for their efforts.

Many patrons recalled that Clonoulty parish some sixty years ago produced some of Ireland’s best Athletes. Thady Ryan was one who was selected for the U.S.A. Invasion team. One of the famous Tubberadora stars was Philip Byrne and his name is still mentioned in the homes of many Tipperary followers.

The neighbouring parish, Rossrnore, produced the peerless A. Carew, who on many occasions shook the goal nets with shots that baffled goal keepers. From the borders of Clonoulty and Drombane came the great Tim Gleeson, a teacher in our midst for a number of years, who played with the Thurles Blues.

In recent years Clonoulty parish had produced the reliable Tony Brosnan, nephew of Philip Byrne, who played his part in upholding the honours of the county.

Last but not least there is the famous Tipperary athlete Tim Crowe who proved himself a long distance cross-country marathon and International champion. It was at Clonoulty fifty four years ago he won his first race and as a veteran athlete won his last neath the twin peaks of San Francisco.

By the way it was at his suggestion that the first great hurling tour of the U.S.A. materialised in 1926. He travelled as "coach" with the Tipperary team. It is hoped that in the near future Clonoulty and its border parishes will again produce men of such calibre who will distinguish themselves on the athletic and hurling fields of Ireland.