Reunion of Mayo 'Legends and Scholars' after 60 years

Sixty years later many of the First Year students of St. Colman's College, Claremorris, came together to renew friendships and recall memories from their years in the school.

It was in 1966 that this small in number group of self titled Legends and Scholars first entered the doors of St Colman's College, Claremorris, the school itself being a mere twenty one years in existence.

The current school principal, Roy Hession warmly welcomed the now senior citizens and spoke of his delight that so many past pupils travelled to their old school and he outlined the progress that the school has made in the last sixty years.

He also led a tour of the school buildings and grounds and impressed all of the group by outlining the facilities and amenities of the school and every one of the past pupils thanks Roy for his time and also for his encouragement in the organisation of the event.

The class of 1966 were also very appreciative of the presence in the group of former school mate of St. Colman's College, Pat Rabbitte who travelled at short notice from Dublin to meet the group and to relive old times in the school.

Pat Rabbitte achieved many successes in his career including being a TD for Dublin South West, a Minister of State, Leader of the Labour Party and Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

In all that time however Pat Rabbitte never forgot St. Colman's College and he spoke eloquently of his school years and also of his life experiences.

As part of the days events the past pupils also toured McMahon Park, Claremorris which is named after one of the group, Ger McMahon whose family in the early 1990s gifted the original lands that became the park.

The social part of the day and evening brought the get together to a close and a late night was enjoyed by all of the 1966 Legends and Scholars.

* Pictured at the St. Colman's College, Claremorris, 60 year reunion were, at front, college principal, Roy Hession, Michael Brennan, Michael Tick Higgins, Councillor Richard Finn, special guest and former government TD and Minister Pat Rabbitte, Paddy Costello, John Costello and Padraic Campbell.

At back are: Frank Dawson, Tom Monaghan, Jarlath Varley, Ger McMahon, Michael Commons, Frank Hyland, Malachy Stephens, Hubert McHugh, Ger Murphy and Noel Guerin.