The AGM of the Blarney Walking Group took place on Thursday October 22nd in Blarney Woollen Mills Hotel. Outgoing Chairman, Oliver Dennehy, began the proceedings with a fitting tribute to the clubs late secretary Liz O’Brien, who’s sudden and untimely death occurred during the summer. Oliver recalled the wonderful contribution Liz had made to the club and he expressed his sympathy, and that of the club, to her family and friends, on their sad loss. A minutes silence, for reflection, was then observed by the meeting. Oliver then gave a brief account of the groups activities during the year and he regaled the meeting with his news of their recent trip to Kilimanjaro. Standing at over five thousand metres, the successful climb of Kilimanjaro was a wonderful achievement by the group. Sights may now be set on the ‘bagging’ of K2 in the future! Eileen Burton, who took over as chairperson, thanked Oliver for his dedication to the club as chairman for the last four years. The other officers Jim O’Leary Secretary, and Rob Boland Treasurer, remained on in their positions for the coming year. Club Membership is now due for renewal. The subscription of €35 (which includes membership of Mountaineering Ireland and insurance) may either be handed in to John McLaughlin, at McElligot’s Pharmacy, Ashdale House, or posted to Rob Boland Treasurer, Coolowen, Blarney. Cheques to be made out to Blarney Walking Group. New members are most welcome to join. Please contact any of the committee or a club member known to you and get out on the hills, highways and byways. All levels of walks, with leaders, are catered for. Most walks take place on Sundays but it is hoped to provide some on Saturdays also. The schedule of walks may be viewed on line at www.blarneywalkinggroup.ie. Exercise and fitness are paramount to good health and well being, Blarney Walking Group provides an ideal opportunity to get fit while enjoying yourself with the camaraderie and craic! The club plan to hold casual, monthly meetings to enable members to meet up and facilitate new members to join. The first such meeting will be held on Wednesday January, 13th at 8pm in Christy’s bar, Blarney Woollen Mills Hotel. Make that the first entry in your 2016 diary! The Christmas Party takes place in Isaacs Restaurant on November 27th. A great night of festive fun is guaranteed! Plans for 2016. Together with the schedule of weekly walks, the club plan to take part in some walking festivals around the country during the coming year. A trip to Ben Nevis, Scotland, is in the pipeline, with Croagh Patrick, the Great Western Greenway and a week end of walking in Killarney, also on the itinerary. Summer evening walks will be scheduled too. Keep an eye on The Muskerry News for regular updates on the clubs activities for 2016. For more information you can contact Eileen on 087 4125617, Jim on 086 8212331 or take a look online at www.blarneywalkinggroup.ie
