Banagher community gears up to support pool fundraising
Numerous fundraising initiatives, the proceeds from which will go towards the upgrade of Banagher swimming pool, will take place in the coming months
The proposed new design aims to offer a six-metre wide walkway, poolside seating, canoe/kayak/paddleboard launch pad, steps and a ramp for safe pool access. Two new gangways will be installed leading up to the pool and a new tiered seating with stairs and handrails are to be installed in the front of the pool area.
Expected to cost in the region of €790,000 to complete, grant aid of €616,000 from the Fáilte Ireland Just Transition Fund was allocated to the upgrade project with the hosting of fundraisers designed to raise the outstanding amount.
Starting today (Friday, March 21), pupils from St Rynagh's National School will bring in items to sell within the school environs. Two fundraising events will take place next month, both on the same day, Saturday, April 26. The morning will see a charity ride hosted hosted by the East Galway Hunt, while later that evening an auction featuring a catalogue of over 100 items will take place.
The Carrauntoohil Challenge will take place on Saturday, May 10. Certain to attract avid exercise enthusiasts, there are only 100 places available for the mountain climb with intending participants encouraged to register their interest as soon as possible. To register your interest in the Carrauntoohil Challenge contact banaghertocarrauntoohil2025@gmail.com.
The fourth fundraising initiative will take place on Saturday, June 28, when JJ Hough's Singing Pub will host a white collar boxing night.
With the theme of the evening being 'grudge matches', those who wish to be involved can avail of the opportunity to seek revenge in the ring. The occasion will also see the return of the 'punching priest', Fr Jalapeño Pepper, who will be battling for the souls of mankind versus a man of a different cloth.
Those who are unable to attend the aforementioned fundraising initiatives can contribute online via iDonate at www.idonate.ie/cause/Banagherpool or use the tap and go donation device located in the town park to the front of the Martello Coffee Dock.
For patrons who would like a more permanent show of their donation towards the pool upgrade, nameplates can be purchased and depending on the bracket, will be placed along different locations of the pool. The nameplates will be of aluminum design on a corten steel backdrop with each donation bracket grouped together and labelled.
The revamped pool on the banks of the Shannon was one of the developments outlined in a masterplan for Banagher Marina and its environs which was launched last year, the plan being to open the revamped amenity for the local community and visitors to the town this summer.