Finn Valley ac celebrated 40 years of athletics in style at a very well attended Black Tie event in Jacsksons hotel Friday night. An attendance close to 350 many current and indeed a number from abroad shared memories, acknowledged the many volunteers that had assisted since the initial meeting in 1971.
The club also took the opportunity to honour local business man John Mc Elhinney and his family like Valley marking 40 years for his contribution to the community. Former national senior champion Sean Carlin in an address remarked on the drive and leadership provided by John and by Patsy Mc Gonagle. Both received presentations as did Neil Martin, Patsy Mc Ginley and Peader Mc Granaghan. M C for the occassion was international athlete Kieran Carlin. Organising committee was in addition to Kieran, Ann Marie Mc Geehin, Rosaleen Mc Gonagle, Bridgeen Doherty and Dermot Mc Granaghan. Sponsorship provided by Mc Elhinneys, Rite financial Services, Kelly Scaffolding, Cavanaghs Supervalu.
In a closing address Patsy in dwelling on the past glories looked ahead to the development of further facilities at Finn Valley most notably a swim pool for the region . Celebrations went on into the early hours and links were provided with Usain Bolt who apologised for being unable to attend due to work committment in Miami and from Vivian Cheruiyot world 5000/10000m champion coached by Finn Valleys Ricky Simms who like Usain is in Miami and was unable to be present .