'Days of Gold' - New film about Mayo basketballers' success to be aired
A new short film about Ballina’s historic National Cup victory in 1991 produced by Andy Smyth and a play will be read on stage as part of the Ballina Fringe Festival on Sunday, October 11.
Step back into the 1990s, the golden era of Irish basketball, to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Connacht Gold Ballina’s historic National Cup victory over Cork’s Burgerland Neptune.
The night kicks off with Andy Smyth’s short film, Days of Gold, capturing the real-life magic and memories of that unforgettable time.
Following the film is a live staged reading of The Boys of ’91, a new play by actor and playwright Niamh McGrath. Directed by Veronica Coburn and read by a fantastic ensemble of six actors, it tells the incredible true story of a team that didn’t even have a regulation court, yet brought American professionals over to Mayo to play alongside a fiercely dedicated squad of homegrown heroes.
More than just a sports story, this is a warm, funny, and deeply local celebration of a community. It is about the blending of cultures, the hope these athletes brought to the town, and the dedicated supporters who packed the rafters in Killala every Saturday night, becoming the vital “sixth player” on the court.
Whether you were there cheering from the stands or are hearing the legend for the first time, this is a night of community, local pride, and great storytelling for everyone.
The film and the play come at a historic time, as the Ballina basketballers are returning to the National stage, competing in a newly formed third tier league for the upcoming season.
Buy tickets for the event here.