Athlunkard Boat Blessing Ceremony

A boat naming ceremony will take place on Friday 4th September at 7pm in the club grounds. The occasion is to honour Michael Phayer for his contribution to the club spanning a period of over sixty years. Michael joined the club in 1948 and was part of many successful Athlunkard crews in the 1950's. His crew mates included such local residents as Michael Reid & Donogh Flannery. His rowing career was followed by participation on various committees down through the years. He is a member of the current club committee. Michael was elected president of the club in 1999 and presided over the opening of the new boathouse facilities. He is well known for his singing voice and recently released a CD with his daughter, Mary. Michael's name will be placed on a new boat which was purchased recently from Italy. He will join a select group of people who have been honoured in this way. This group includes people who have given great service to the club over many years.  Such names include Jack Meehan, Des Henn, Willie Henn, Christy Madigan, Ned Flanagan, Louie Murnane, Paddy O'Brien, Archie Brown and John O'Connor. All great Athlunkard men. The blessing of the boat ceremony will be performed by Fr. Donogh O'Malley and all are welcome to attend.