A magnificent new playing field was officially opened and blessed on Sunday at Carnmore. Voluntary workers carried out the work which cost £9,000, and this was raised by a local committee. County Board official's lavished praise on all concerned for the amenity and Board Chairman; Mr. Gerry Cloherty said it was a wonderful example of what a united people could do. They had shown endeavor and enterprise.
Reverend Father G. Callanan, P.P. who blessed the field said he was not merely blessing the field itself but all those who would play on it He congratulated the people of Carnmore and Claregalway for their drive and initiative. His hope was that hurling would improve now that the parish had such a grand pitch.
Mr. John McDonagh welcomed a good attendance to the opening and paid tribute to men like Willie Morris and Councilor Paddy Ruane for their great work over the years. He thanked too, Chairman Mr. Eddie Hanley, Secretary Jackie Kenny and Treasurer Jimmy Hughes. In a reference to Carnmore / C1arega1way's contribution to hurling Mr. McDonagh recalled great names like Jimmy Conroy and Martin Murphy in recent years, hurlers who could hold their own with the best in the country.
Saint Vincent's College, Coolarne, accordion and whistle band played the National Anthem and led the parade of the Galway and Clare hurling teams around the field. County Board President, Mr. Stephen Carty and Mr. Michael O Malley, chairman of the West Board joined in the tribute to Carnmore/Claregalway.