Posted 21st October 2003 (better late than never!)

O'Sullivan Beare Weekend (August 2003)

The concept of a way marked way, following the route of the epic march of O'Suilleabhain Beara in 1603 from the Beara peninsula in West Cork to Breifne on the Leitrim Cavan border, was first conceived by Liam O'Connor and researched by Diarmuid O'Leary, both Kilfinane based volunteers who with Ballyhoura Fáilte, and the support of local historians prepared a submission to Cospoir for the route concept and detailing the proposed route through Ballyhoura Country. The Ballyhoura Way was the first Way Marked Way established that follows the O'Suilleabhain Beara Route. A commemoration walk took place in August 2003.

In the village of Churchtown on 9th August 2003 the community hosted a medieval banquet with music and a recital of poetry to honour the national event as it passed through the village. Here is a selection of photographs from that lovely weekend in our village and many thanks to all who organised and supported the various events.

Local artist, Eileen Ahern-O'Connor, with Carmel Fox, Chief Executive, Ballyhoura Development. Carmel opened Eileen's art Exhibition in Boss Murphy's an event organised as part of the overall O'Sullivan Beare celebration weekend in Churchtown. A presentation was made to Mallow Hospital from the proceeds of an entry charge to the Art exhibition.

A group of the people who supported the Banquet.

Johnny O'Sullivan (London) and Noel Relihan (Philadelphia) who returned to Churhtown for the weekend celebrations. Taken in Eileen Ahern O'Connor's house at Windmill.

Noel and Johnny again!

Mick Culloty provide very appropriate high quality entertainment for the guests .

All dressed up (and somewhere to go!). Eileen with Margaret O'Brien appropriately dressed for the Banquet.

Local singer Willie Relihan at the Banquet with his sister Margaret.

Click here to read about Willie's great CD entitled "My Hometown".

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