Attending the official opening of the new clubhouse at Westport Tennis Club were Anne Moore, Mayo County Council, Councillor Christy Hyland, club chairperson Mary Ward, and Pat Grady. Photo: Conor McKeown

New clubhouse at Mayo tennis club officially opens

Westport Tennis Club has marked a significant milestone with the official opening of its new clubhouse.

Designed by Pat Grady and Associates and built to a very high standard by Hugh Golden and Logden Homes, the clubhouse is now essential core of a busy and successful club.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, chairperson Mary Ward thanked everyone associated with the project.

The support of Mayo Leader and LCDC was graciously acknowledged.

The consistent support of local elected representatives for the club over many years was noted with appreciation.

The club welcomed local councillors Brendan Mulroy and Christy Hyland while Councillor Neil Cruise, Foxford, was in attendance as chair of LCDC.

Deputy Michael Ring performed the official opening.

In his address he emphasised the value that should be placed on local initiatives that enable people of all ages and backgrounds to participates in healthy activity.

He pointed out that the work done on the ground by groups like the tennis club added tremendous value to communities and quality of life.

Deputy Ring has always been a strong advocate for sport locally and has delivered support where it counts to many sporting and indeed cultural bodies.

Councillor Christy Hyland spoke about the value of sport in the lives of young people.

He cited the positive impact on reducing anti-social behaviour where there are varied and accessible sporting outlets.

The room was unanimously positive about the work done by Leader and the LCDC.

Councillor Neil Cruise stressed that good projects, well planned could always rely on support.

Thanks was extended by everyone to both bodies.

The club was particularly glad to see some of its neighbours from King’s Hill dropping in.

King’s Hill provided excellent members and some talented players over the decades and there is no doubt this will continue.

After the speeches, it was time for the customary tape cutting and a chance to enjoy the hospitality provided by Adrian and Geraldine Noonan from Knockranny Hotel, great supporters of the club.

So, after years of wishing and hoping, followed by a couple of years of planning and building, the new clubhouse stands in recognition of hard work by many people across a generation of tennis seasons.