Ann Dunning Memorial Tournament 2015

31/3/2015

Holloway's Veterans Team - current and past members of the Holloway Gaels including former team-mates of Ann Dunning.

On the 21st of March, Holloway Gaels hosted the annual 9-a-side Ann Dunning Memorial Tournament in Tír Chonnaill Gaels GAA Grounds, Greenford in London. Eight teams took part in the event; Holloway Gaels, Holloway Veterans, Kingdom Kerry Gaels, Dulwich Harps, Fr Murphy’s, Thomas McCurtains, St. Mary’s of Twickenham and Tir Chonaill Gaels.

Teams were divided into two groups of four, with the top two teams in each group progressing to the semi finals. Holloway Gaels progressed to face Tir Chonaill Gaels in the first semi-final, with Fr Murphy’s playing St. Mary’s in the second semi-final.

The tournament ended with a very sporting game played by Holloway Gaels and St. Mary’s of Twickenham. St. Mary’s performed to a consistently high level throughout the group phases and despite a valiant effort from the Holloway girls, they were too strong for the North London team.

After the final, the teams retreated to the Tír Chonnaill Gaels clubhouse where St. Mary’s captain Laura Gillepsie was presented with the Ann Dunning Cup. Laura spoke of the delight of being invited to take part in the tournament and how St. Mary’s were honoured to carry on the legacy of Ann Dunning. Player of the Tournament, as voted by the referees, was deservedly presented to Cathy Carey who had a flawless performance throughout the day.

Former Holloway player and clubmate of Ann’s, Bridget Browne, paid tribute to the organising committee of the tournament and club, and most significantly to Ann herself. Without the hard work and dedication of Ann and all the previous generations of Holloway Gaels players, the club would not be in the position it is today. By the end of the day, the club had raised an impressive sum to be donated to Cancer Research UK in memory of Ann. Thank you to all who contributed to the collection on the day.