BUCCANEERS RAISE FUNDS FOR HOSPICE
During these uncharted pandemic times when lockdown has imposed on so much, including the cancellation of rugby activities for a prolonged period, during this time Buccaneers Rugby Football Club in Athlone undertook to raise some greatly needed funds for both the club and South Westmeath Hospice.
Lady members Judy Dowling and Geraldine Kenny spear-headed this laudable effort as they asked members and their families and friends to walk, run or cycle 2,986 kilometres, equal to the distance travelled by Buccaneers Senior team in a season to away fixtures to the other clubs in their All-Ireland League division. With many income streams and events for the hospice ceased due to the pandemic, this most worthwhile project merited support. Many members got active, whilst socially distancing, and some took on trickier challenges such as Sean O’Connell who climbed Croagh Patrick for the cause.
So well done to everyone who participated and to Judy and Geraldine for leading this fund-raiser with the income raised divided evenly between the two organisations. South Westmeath Hospice provides best palliative care and support for patients and their families, and is clearly a voluntary group highly worthy of support. The monies generated were presented on behalf of Buccaneers by Judy Dowling to Clare Lennon, chairperson of South Westmeath Hospice, and Ted Carty, board member of the hospice.