'Friends of Darragh' fundraising event to make long-awaited return

The Friends of Darragh seven-a-side tournament will make its long-awaited return this Easter weekend.

The event will kick off at 12pm on Saturday, March 30, at the Neale GAA pitch in Lisloughrey, Cong.

The event commemorates the life of Darragh Walsh, who, in 2013, tragically passed away at the age of 22 following a road traffic accident in Qatar.

After a hiatus due to a combination of Covid restrictions and scheduling challenges, Neale GAA is thrilled to see the tournament return this year.

Miriam Walsh, Darragh’s mother and organiser of the tournament, expressed her excitement for the tournament’s return, saying the tournament is ‘not only a celebration of Darragh’s memory but also a chance for clubs to come together and support a worthy cause’. 

“We've missed the energy and sense of unity that this event brings, and we can’t wait to see familiar faces and new teams join us on the pitch. There are friends, there’s family and then there are friends that become family,” she said.

The Friends of Darragh seven-a-side tournament has become a beloved tradition for the Neale GAA, bringing together 20 teams – both men and women sides - from across Mayo and Galway. 

More than just a sporting event, the tournament serves as a fundraiser for the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, with all proceeds raised on the day going towards this important cause.

The event promises to be a day filled with fast-paced action, as teams compete for glory while honouring the memory of a beloved friend. 

Spectators are encouraged to come out and show their support for this meaningful event.

For more information, see the Friends of Darragh seven-a-side Facebook page.