'High Nelly' event in Offaly border village a huge success

Clonaslee High Nelly Club and Clonaslee-St Manmans GAA joined forces to host an enjoyable day out in the village in support of OsKaRs participant 'Waking Ned' on Sunday last, January 15.

As locals gathered in the Square and cyclists readied for their trek, a poignant minute's silence was observed in memory of Martin Dunne, a relative and dear friend of members of both clubs.

Despite a wet and windy start, the skies cleared as High Nelly cyclists made their journey down the Tullamore Road. It was wonderful to see people of all ages pedal the vintage bikes, a collection of Raleighs, Rudges, Humbers and Hercules – some almost a century old. Afterwards, a large procession of tractors new and old gathered for a run.

 Throughout the day, guests were well looked after by the dedicated team at Hickey's Pub and a number of volunteers who supplied warming beverages and food as the spectators gathered. In the evening, Hickey's hosted a raffle with a number of hampers and prizes created from a range of donated items. The day was capped off with live music and entertainment.

Clonaslee-St Manman's held their inaugural OsKaRs in 2019, when an 800-strong crowd gathered, to support the club. Following a break due to the pandemic, Club members have been busily hosting multiple fundraisers in the village ahead of the second OsKaRs night, which takes place on January 27th at Tullamore Court Hotel. Proceeds will go towards funding the continued development of Fr. Kehoe Park and other club facilities.

Clonaslee High Nelly Club said: "We were delighted to play our part on another brilliant day in the village. It was an outstanding effort by high nelly club members, Clonaslee-St Manmans, Hickey's Pub, stewards, volunteers, An Garda Síochána, those who donated for the raffle, our entertainers, all who braved the rain to cycle and brought their tractors and everyone who came out to lend support. It was lovely to see so many families enjoying the day. A great start to 2023. We wish 'Waking Ned' and all the OsKaRs films the very best of luck on the 27th and congratulate them on their purposeful fundraising endeavours to date."