East Down anniversary dinner

East Down anniversary dinner

3 October 2012

OVER 100 members and guests gathered in La Mon Hotel on Saturday night to celebrate East Down Athletic Club’s 25th anniversary at a gala dinner.

Tributes were paid to the late Jimmy Murray, who was a founder member and inspirational leader during the first 10 years of the club’s existence. Chairperson Roisin Gaffney welcomed everyone to he occasion and thanked the organising committee for their efforts in making the night possible and all the long term sponsors of Jimmy’s Ten Road Race.

Athletics Northern Ireland chairman, David Seaton MBE, spoke of the legacy which Jimmy had left and of the rising strength of the club and the esteem in which it is held. He wished it continuing success in the next 25 years.

Among the guests were Tommy and Phyllis Welsh, David and Dorothy McKibben, Eddie and Rita Wilson and the evergreen John McKeag. A special welcome was extended to loyal and ever present sponsors Darren and Catherine Brown of Dupes Video Duplication and Tracey O’Neill from Flowers By Tracey.

Olympic Torch bearer Pat Power added a special feature to the evening by putting the golden torch on display and most of those present took the opportunity to have photographs taken with the historic emblem.

A great night was had by all, though I’m awaiting the outcome of the special two for the price of one offer to anyone booking their places now for the 50th anniversary event in 2037.