Past members recalled at Mayo rugby club's exhibition opening
A large crowd gathered in the Linenhall Arts Centre for the opening of an exhibition marking the 140th anniversary of Castlebar Rugby Club.
Addressing the guests, club chairperson Declan Hughes said: ‘It is great to see so many past and present players, coaches, members, parents and volunteers here.
"Like those who have filled those roles before you over the past 140 years, you are the backbone of our club.
"As we look back on our history this evening and share memories, it is fitting that we also remember those associated with our club who have passed.
"Many of our players who have passed were also members of other sports clubs in Castlebar, and our loss is shared by our neighbours.
"It is also true that our successes are shared by our neighbouring clubs, and theirs are shared by us.
"Through close relationships among clubs, Castlebar has remained a major sporting centre in Connacht and Castlebar Rugby Club is proud to play our part in keeping it so.
"Castlebar Rugby Club was established in 1885 when local sportsmen and members of the British military garrisoned in Castlebar came together and assembled a new club.
"The club welcomed all political persuasions, and Irish nationalists togged out alongside British soldiers. Inclusivity remains a core principle at Castlebar Rugby Club.
"The history of our club since its beginning is recorded in this exhibition.
"It is a history we can feel immensely proud of, not least our relationship with Connacht Rugby.
"We were one of six clubs present at the formation of Connacht Rugby in 1885 and over the years we have supplied Connacht squads with many fine male and female players and Connacht committees with experienced members.
"Our proudest association with the province was the election of one of our own, Jimmy Staunton, as president of Connacht Rugby for the 2024-25 season.
"Through decades of hard work, scores of dedicated volunteers, hundreds of players and thousands of fundraised pounds and euro, our membership today exceeds 500, with strong growth in our minis and youth rugby. The future is bright.
"This year, we added a fine spectator stand to our grounds in Cloondeash and plans are in place to extend our facilities."
Officially opening the exhibition, Robert Lahiff, president of Connacht Rugby, shared his fond memories of playing in Castlebar when he lined out for Gort RFC and Buccaneers.
Mr. Lahiff congratulated Castlebar RFC on its proud history and held the club up as a positive example in the province.
Also representing Connacht Rugby was Willie Ruane, CEO.
The exhibition will be on display in the Linenhall Arts Centre until October 24. E