Bantry Bay R.F.C. BBQ

Mannings Emporium - Bantry Bay R.F.C. BBQ

Thanks for the Memories

Mick O'Driscoll Munster Rugby 1998-2012

The Gods of the weather smiled on Manning's Emporium on Sunday (July 8th), on the occasion of their annual barbeque. This year the funds were in aid of Bantry Bay R.F.C, who decided to invite Mick O'Driscoll as guest of honour, with his wife Alice and their new three week old baby, to honour Micks outstanding career with Munster.

Fionn & Cathal (Winner's of the Hamper)
with Mick O'Driscoll at the
Bantry Bay R.F.C. BBQ on Sunday

It was a lovely family day out. Bantry players, young and old, and their families turned out to make it "just a perfect day"! The Calvinists provided the music in the marquee, which added greatly to the event! The proprietors of Mannings Emporium, Andrew & Laura, and of course Val, were wonderful hosts.

The barbecue was run by Kate & Eugene O'Brien, who did the cooking. The food tasted as good as the lovely aroma and smells associated with open air cooking. Margaret Clarke, Christine Fitzgerald & Esther O'Hehir served up the food and kept the busy line moving, to everyones satisfaction.

Damian Moloney, Club President, presented a Waterford Crystal Bowl, with an inscribed plinth, to mark Mick O'Driscoll's retirement from playing. Mick clocked up an amazing 207 caps for Munster, 35 for Perpignan and 38 caps for Ireland at full and A Levels. What a career! He joined Ronan O'Gara on 219, Peter Stringer on 223 and John Hayes on 217. Mick has won Heineken Cup Medals, Celtic League and a European Colleges Medal with U.C.C. But he was about more than just medals. His line out play, his fearless leadership and how he always gave everything on the pitch, in what can only be described as a glittering career. 

Mick Galwey was his usual self. Friendly banter was the order of the day between the two Munster stars. Mixing with the families and fans, they added to everyones enjoyment!.

Stephen & Gillian O'Donovan (The Brick Oven / Mariner Bar) prepared and cooked some of the food, provided tables, advice and helped in so many ways to make the day a success.

The Calvinists music suited the day wonderfully. Easy listening for young and old, they had the crowd bopping & weaving to their very distinctive sound.

McCarthy's of Kanturk, Paddy O'Donoghue, Tim Murphy, Henry Hegarty, Neill & Margaret Clarke & many others also contributed.

Manning's Emporium allowed use of the venue, arranged sponsorship, contributed a Hamper, helped with advice and direction, in what was a day to remember.