Tractor team get ready for Dublin to Mayo drive

Michael Commins

The 20 tractors and drivers are all in place for the big drive from Dublin to Mayo on Good Friday and Holy Saturday, March 30 and 31. A launch night was held in McLoughlin’s Bar in Charlestown on Saturday night at which details of the event were announced and where public representatives joined the large gathering to lend support to the initiative.
Among those present were Michael Fitzmaurice TD who will preside at the send-off ceremony in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, on Good Friday, and Mayo councillors Richard Finn, John Caulfield, Gerry Murray, and Patsy O’Brien.
The proceeds from the marathon undertaking are in support of two special causes, Crumlin’s Children Hospital in Dublin and Castlebar Special Care Unit.
John Corley from Kilkelly, a member of the organising committee, says they are hugely encouraged by the goodwill for this venture. “So many people are now rowing in behind us and we seem well on target to surpass our original target figure. We would like to thank all who bought tickets for the raffle for the 35 tractor prior to the Mayo v Dublin games in Castlebar on Saturday evening.
“Members of our support group will be visiting Maam Cross Mart on Saturday and later that night we will have members in McDonnell’s Bar in Belmullet raising funds for the cause.
“We would like to thank Murt Dunleavy from St Louis Community School in Kiltimagh and staff and pupils for presenting us with a sponsorship cheque last week and also Stephen Jordan from Bohola for all his help as well.
“The Kilgallon brothers from Shraheens, Balla, will provide music for all the gang who are staying overnight in Feerick’s Hotel of Rathowen on Good Friday night. We have Marty Mone and a host of entertainers lined up for the big welcome home party in Breaffy House on Easter Saturday night at which the draw for the tractor will also take place.”
Sponsorship cards are in various outlets around the region and all support will be greatly appreciated by the organisers.