Rally America Heads to Wellsboro, PA.

Defending STPR champion Matt Iorio returns to Wellsboro. Iorio is currently 5th in the Rally America Championship [Photo/Neil McDaid]

All Roads This Weekend Will Lead to the 2007 Running of STPR
Oldest Motorsports Event in Pennsylvania Serves as X-Games Qualifying Race

WELLSBORO, Pa., May 30, 2007 - The nation’s top rally drivers will compete in one of the sport’s most venerable events when the Rally America National Championship Series returns to the fast and twisty roads of the Pennsylvania State Forest for the Susquehannock Trail Performance Rally (STPR) on June 2.

The demanding STPR course, which begins at The Green in Wellsboro, Pa., covers a total of 310 miles, including 125 competitive miles in 10 stages. Rally teams race along dangerous woodland roads and through treacherous water crossings at speeds up to 100 mph.

Now in its 31st year, the Susquehannock Trail Performance Rally has been the proving ground for countless national and international rally stars. Rally racing legends such as Rod Millen and American John Buffum have earned multiple victories at the venerable race, the longest consecutively held motorsports event in the state of Pennsylvania.

Entering STPR, the top three drivers in the 2007 Rally America standings are separated by just five points. After four of nine events, Ken Block and co-driver Alessandro Gelsomino lead the standings, followed by Tanner Foust and co-driver Christine Beavis. Oregon Trail Rally winner Andrew Pinker and co-driver Robbie Durant are third, while 2006 Rally America national champions Travis Pastrana and co-driver Christian Edstrom are fourth.

In addition to the 2007 Rally America National Championship title, drivers are competing for entry into X Games 13. For the second consecutive year, rally racing will be featured in the Summer X Games, with the first five races of the 2007 Rally America season serving as qualifying events for the popular action-sport competition.

More info

www.rally-america.com

www.stpr.org

SUSQUEHANNOCK TRAIL PERFORMANCE RALLY – SCHEDULE

Saturday, June 2, 2007
9 a.m. Parc Exposé (race cars on display), The Green, Wellsboro, Pa.
10:31 a.m. Start of STPR®, The Green, Wellsboro, Pa.
2:45 p.m. Parc Exposé, The Green, Wellsboro, Pa.
4:31 p.m. Start of evening portion of STPR®, The Green, Wellsboro, Pa.
10:45 p.m. First car finishes STPR®

Festival Of Motorsport, Ireland

1979 World Rally Champion Bjorn Waldegard gives the media a sample of what to expect at the Festival of Motorsport on Saturday 2 June. picture:Jonathan MacDonald/MEDIAJAM

Armagh Lions Club Festival of Motorsport

Early morning sunshine graced the beautiful surroundings at Stormont today as Armagh Lions Club and North Armagh Motorcycle and Car Club Ltd (NAMCC Ltd) launched their inaugural Festival of Motorsport.

Due to take place in Loughgall Country Park, County Armagh, on Saturday 2 June, Stormont reverberated to the sound of rally and autotest cars as MLAs sampled high-octane action outside Parliament Buildings.

This weekend's Festival is the first of its kind on these shores. Organised to raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care, the event will consist of a Historic Rally Car Challenge over a 2.75 mile all-tarmac special stage, Apple Blossom Autotest, as well as static cars displays.

It has attracted world renowned talent from home ground and further afield, including 1979 World Rally Champion, Swede Björn Waldegård. He is joined by a number of former British and Irish rally champions and the Festival will also feature some of Northern Ireland's leading autotest talent. Combined with static car displays, family entertainment (including the Red Bull display team), as well as professional catering facilities, Loughgall Country Park will be a hive of activity this weekend! Speaking at today's launch, Festival Director Kieran McAnallen said: "I am delighted with the progress that has been made by the Armagh Lions Club and North Armagh Motorcycle & Car Club to bring this spectacular event together. From something which started quite small, I can't believe it has grown into such a major sporting event. It promises to be day which the public will enjoy immensely, and with sponsors on board in the form of the Donnelly Group, even bigger and better events are promised for the future!"

It was Armagh Lions Club member, Ivor Ferguson, who conceived the idea just one year ago following the running of the Apple Blossom Autotest (again a joint venture between Armagh Lions Club and NAMCC Ltd). He thought it would be a fantastic idea to bring a historic rally to Loughgall Country Park and turn it into a bigger event.

"It's great to be here today after the Festival of Motorsport was conceived from an initial idea just 12 months ago," Ivor Ferguson said. "The jointly organised original venture included an autotest and static displays in Loughgall Country Park last year. It has grown to include the Historic Rally Car Challenge and much more this year. I'm very pleased to see how it has progressed and we hope to continue this successful event for many years to come."

1979 World Rally Champion, Bjorn Waldegard (left) took Councillor William Irwin, Mayor of Armagh City & District Council, for a spin in Alan Jardine's Ford Escort Mark 1 rally car at Parliament Buildings, Stormont. picture:Jonathan MacDonald/MEDIAJAM

North Armagh Motorcycle & Car Club Ltd is no stranger to organising high profile events, with its Turkington Lurgan Park Rally attracting thousands of spectators to Lurgan in August. Thousands of spectators are also expected in Loughgall this weekend, as competitors of past and present roar into action.

"On behalf of North Armagh Motorcycle and Car Club Ltd, it's fantastic to have the use of this magnificent venue," said NAMCC Ltd Clerk of the Course, William Fullerton. "We have a new tarmac special stage this year with a great layout. To run a historic rally is a wonderful new venture for us as a motor club and it's a unique event in Northern Ireland motorsport. It's great to see so much interest in the events which is reflected in the high quality entries."

Indeed, massive interest has been received for the Historic Rally Car Challenge and the event has been boosted by a number of overseas entries. Sweden's Björn Waldegård, the 1979 World Rally Champion, will reacquaint himself with the same Ford Escort RS1800 which he used to win the 1977 Safari Rally.

"It was 30 years ago when I last drove this car," Waldegård said. "I have very fond memories and it's great to have the opportunity to drive it again. I'm really looking forward to the rally this weekend and to be back again competing in Ireland!"

Waldegård will be joined by former British Rally Champion, Russell Brookes. He is twice winner of the British series, and is a former works driver for many teams. He will be reunited with a Talbot Sunbeam, while Irishman Billy Coleman will join the fray in an RS1800 Escort. He is also a former winner of the British Championship, as well as the Irish Tarmac Championship.

A number of other distinguished names can also be found on the entry list, including Cathal Curley, Adrian Boyd, Tony Fall, Ivor Clark and Dessie McCartney. Meanwhile, entries for the Apple Blossom Autotest are equally spectacular, with a number of Northern Ireland's leading lights. Drivers such as Eric Patterson, Noel Cochrane, Ken Irwin, Raymond Donaldson and Sam Bowden are just the tip of the iceberg.

Gates in Loughgall Country Park open at 9am on Saturday with festivities getting underway at 10am. Entry to the venue costs £10 per person (accompanied children under 16 are free), with Marie Curie Cancer Care benefiting from the proceeds. A full colour programme will be available and free parking will be provided.

Historic Rally Car Challenge - top 15 entries

1 Bjorn Waldegard/Kevin Toner Ford Escort RS1800

2 Billy Coleman/Colm Quinn Ford Escort RS1800

3 Russell Brookes/Desmond Mallon Talbot Sunbeam Lotus

4 Cahal Curley/Elkin Robinson Porsche 911

5 Tony Fall/TBA Mini Cooper S

6 Adrian Boyd/Brian Boyd Renault Alpine A110

7 Ivor Clark/Martin McGrath Hillman Avenger

8 Dessie McCartney/TBA Porsche 911

9 Robin Eyre-Maunsell/Norman Henderson Sunbeam Tiger

10 Roy Cathcart/TBA Ford Escort RS1800

11 John Keatley/Maurice Beckett Ford Escort RS1800

12 John McClean/Patrick McBride Ford Escort RS1800

14 Andrew McLoone/James Sharkey Ford Escort RS1800

15 Mervyn Johnston/Stuart Hyland Austin Mini Cooper S

Apple Blossom Autotest (top two in each class) Noel Cochrane (last year's winner) - MG MidgetClass

1 Robert Dickson - Mini SpecialClass

1 Samuel Baird - Wolseley HornetClass

2 David Jenkins - MG MidgetClass 2

Mike Adair - MG MidgetClass

3 Eric Patterson - Vauxhall NovaClass

3 Wallace McKee - Vauxhall Chevette

Boston GAA Sunday May 27, 2007

Tom's Dermot Fox had to get the boot in as he charged forward through the Cork backline[Photo Neil McDaid]

Game 1, SHC: Fr. Tom Burkes 3:16 to Cork 0:08
Another disastrous outing for the rebels in this their second meeting with the Fr. Toms in 2007. Cork made little or no improvement over their last performance in the Sheehan Cup semi’s. Tom's had pulled well ahead in the first half, showing a score of 1-10 to 0-05 at the break. Cork clearly lacked the legs and only managed a meager three points in the second half, while Tom's would add 2:06.

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Wolf Tones would try to muscle their way past Donegal [Photo Neil McDaid]

Game 2, SFC: Donegal 0:11 to Wolf Tones 0:07.
Donegal would see a hard hitting effort from the Wolf Tones in their first game of the 2007 championship. A full Donegal / Tones game report can be found at www.donegal.us

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Kieran Cox, for the Gaels, coming in for a hard landing [Photo Neil McDaid]

Game 3, SFC: Connemara Gaels 2:19 to Armagh 1-05
The departure of some key players from Armagh is beginning to show in their early season performance in 2007. They would take to the field on this Sunday to face a Gaels team that showed the same vigor and energy that brought them oh so very close to taking it all in 2006. Early work up front from Coxey [Kieran Cox] with the assistance of a fitter looking Bosco O’Halloran would start to put the hurt on Armagh, and it was all downhill from there. A scuffle in the second half would add salt to an already bleeding Armagh side when their big man in center field, Gerry O’Reilly, would be sent to the line on a red card. Armagh will need to right themselves in the next two weeks as they are scheduled to meet McAnespies on June 10th.

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John Wall was just outstanding for Tipp [Photo Neil McDaid]

Game 4, SCH: Tipperary 3:18 to Wexford 1-04
As with the football game that proceeded, the second hurling game on the day would prove to be a one-sided affair. Not the typical performance we would expect from Wexford. I would have to say that a few of their key players might have been overworked as Peter Nolan, Pat Nolan, Peter Ryan, Donal Redmond, and Jonathon Ryan all featured for Galway in a hard fought 85 degree football game the night before. But in saying that, the same was not true for the clear star of this game the multi-talented John Wall for Tipp, Wall had also played the night before for the Blues against Galway and showed little affect. Wall was unstoppable as he notched up point after point . Paul McElligot would take credit for the three goals that were registered for Tipp. With the pressure on, tempers flared resulting in the ejection of Wexford’s Jonathon Ryan and Tipp’s Cronan Dempsey. The only bright spot for Wexford was a back handed goal from Pat Slone, who also contributed a few points.

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McAnespies had a lot of trouble containing Cork in the first half [Photo Neil McDaid]

Game 5, SCF Cork 1-9 to McAnespies 1-12

To the surprise of the McAnespies and many others on the side lines, Cork would put in an effort like we have not seen from them in awhile. It would make for one of the most exciting action packed games of the day. McAnespies, who stormed through to take the 2007 O’Brien Cup, were unable to answer the game that Cork brought to the field in the first half. Cork’s captain, Gavin Wren, would run riot around McAnespies' back line, scoring three of Cork's first half points. Wren would also drive home a great goal against McAnespies' keeper Derek Davis and Declan Traynor, who was also on the goal line. At the break Cork were ahead by 1:07 to 0:05.
Eugene McKenna would find his mark for the McAnespies early in the second. That, along with Peadar Nugent being brought in from the bench, would finally see things starting to turn in McAnespies' favor. Under pressure to stay ahead Cork would fowl Paddy McCusker in the space, resulting in a penalty being awarded to the Mc’s. Christy Lynch slotted the ball into the left corner just past the finger tips of Cork's keeper Keith McNamara. Colm McCory, who had worked so hard for McAnespies in the first half, would tie with score with a great point he ran in from midfield.
Kieran Connelly, who was definitely in control of midfield for Cork throughout the game, would take a hard tackle from Declan Traynor, putting him on the ground for some time. Traynor was ejected from the game on his second yellow. Points from McGettigan, McCrory and McKenna would make the difference for McAnespies, as they just about got past Cork.

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Boston GAA Saturday May 26th. SFC: Shannon Blues v Galway

Galway would turn the tide on the Blues in the second half [Photo/Neil McDaid]

Galway claws back to claim their first senior victory in years

By Neil McDaid

Saturday May 26, 2007 - Canton, Ma. Galway started their 2007 campaign in the same manner as they closed their 2006 season, with a victory. Although this victory came with much less fanfare than when Galway took the 2006 Boston North East Intermediate title, today’s win marks a long awaited return to senior championship football for this storied Boston GAA club.
Although Galway opened quickly in the first half, scoring a point from play in only the second minute, they would struggle to come to grips with a new look Shannon Blues team.
The Blues seemed to have the upper hand in midfield. New addition Richey Hennessy worked the ball well into a very fast moving Shannon Blues forward line, who were in superb form in the first half. Conor Daly would split the Galway uprights on a fine pass from Gary Henry to get things moving for Shannon Blues.

Once things got going for the Blues there was virtually no stopping them as they delivered point after point to close the first half with a 8-3 advantage. Galway’s manager, Manus McFadden, didn’t panic however as he encouraged his men at the break.
Words of encouragement went a long way as again Galway would open the scoring in the second half with a point from Peter Nolan. Shortly thereafter Donal Redmond found an opening and made a deposit into the Shannon Blues net.
An exchange of points from both sides would keep things interesting, but it was veteran player Mickey Joe Hynes who almost stole the show. After an excellent through ball from Tom Walsh, Mickey Joe would work his way within range of the Blues goal, but a miss-judged aim would rob him of his glory.
His disappointment was short lived as Mick Curran, who was brought in as a sub, would get a fist to the ball again raising the green flag for Galway.

The tide had turned on the Blues; they had let Galway claw their way back from their shortfall at the half. Possibly the 85 degree heat or playing into the sun in the second half had taken affect on Shannon Blues. They seemed to slow as the game ticked away but, but as we all knew, the Blues were not going to go down without one last charge.

In the closing minutes of the game we would see a furious attack from the Blues. Down by four points a ballistic rip from forward John Wall could have made the difference for the Blues, but it clipped the cross bar and went over for a point. Another drive from Conor Daly would rebound to Wall who delivered a towering point to close the game.
An elated Galway side had achieved their goal. Knowing that this is only the start of a long season they were very satisfied to be off to a good start. Finals score 2-9 to 0-13.

Boston GAA Schedule for May 26th-27th

Saturday May 26th, 07

5:00 SFC Galway v Shannon Blues

Sunday May 27th, 07 [Main field]

12:00 SCH Cork v Fr. Toms

1:15 SFC Donegal v Wolf Tones

2:30 SFC Gaels v Armagh

3:45 SHC Tipp v Wexford

5:00 SFC McAnespies v Cork

Field B:

2:30 Jr A, Donegal v Shannon Blues

4:00 Jr A Galway v Wolftones

Directions to the Irish Cultrual center in Canton Ma. click here

Duddy & Irish Ropes June 2nd NYC fund-raiser postponed

John Duddy and Eddie McLoughlin still commited to the fund-raiser

[Photo©NeilMcDaid]

NEW YORK CITY (May 22, 2007) - Due to a training conflict the June 2nd dinner-dance fund-raiser for Performing Arts Technical High students in Brooklyn, sponsored by IBA World middleweight champion "Ireland's" John Duddy and Irish Ropes Promotions, has been postponed until September.
Duddy (20-0, 15 KOs), rated No. 8 by the WBO and No. 9 by the IBF, is scheduled to leave tomorrow for Ireland, where his July 14 fight in Dublin will be formally announced. After a weeklong press tour of Ireland, Duddy will return to New York and go immediately into training.
The goal remains to raise $100,000 to send two deserving students to college as well as allow a teacher to continue his/her education.
"We apologize for any inconvenience the postponement may cause," Irish Ropes president Eddie McLoughlin explained. "The students have been notified and they understand that we are still committed to the fund-raiser and them. It's just that John is going into training earlier than we had originally planned and he won't be available for the fund-raiser."
For more information about Irish Ropes or John Duddy call 212.835.1582 or go to www.irishropes.com.
-IRP-

Ramada Lagamann finds his pace!

Photo/Rally America

Olympia, Wash., May 20, 2007-Round four of the Rally America Championship. Ramana Lagemann earned his first win of the season this weekend after a fierce battle with Australian driver Andrew Pinker that saw the pair exchange the lead into the final seconds of the race."It's unbelievable," said Lagemann, as he and co-driver Mark Williams pulled up to the finish after tearing through the slick 26-mile final stage. "That last stage was absolutely diabolical."

The win is something of a redemption for Lagemann, who has battled mechanical trouble in his Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution this season and failed to finish either of the two previous races he started. For their part, Pinker and co-driver Robbie Durant were content to have brought their Syms Subaru home in second-place after an intense contest that pushed them to perform at their best."I'm happy it was such a good fight," Pinker said after the final sprint to the finish.

"That was the fastest I have ever driven -- no holds barred." In the end, just 4.6 seconds separated the first and second place finishers -- after nearly two and a-half hours of intense competition spanning two days and more than 125 miles through the forest roads of the Pacific Northwest.Third place overall went to Pinker's Syms teammate Tanner Foust and co-driver Christine Beavis. The crew was in the hunt for the lead from the start, but weren't able to overhaul the frontrunners."U.S. rally racing is really strong right now, it's really cool," Foust said.Notably absent from the top three were the two Subaru Rally Team USA cars, both of whom began to struggle from the very start of the contest.

Ken Block and co-driver Alessandro Gelsomino finished fourth, more than four minutes off the lead, while Travis Pastrana and co-driver Christian Edstrom -- already out of the game on Day 1 after they apparently ran out of fuel midway through the seventh stage -- crashed hard and had to retire from the contest.

They were unhurt, but their car is believed to have suffered significant damage.Also struggling were Matt Iorio and co-driver Ole Holter, but they managed to finish fifth overall at the end of the day. Likewise, seven-time U.S. champion Paul Choiniere battled engine trouble throughout the contest to finish seventh, while Andrew Comrie-Picard wound up eighth after suffering problems with his turbocharger.

Otis Dimiters, takes Group N victory [Photo/Rally.Subaru]

Otis Dimiters and co-driver Alan Ockwell took the Group N win, finishing sixth overall in their Subaru. The PGT win went to Matthew Johnson and co-driver Jeremy Wimpey in their Hankook Tires Subaru.In two-wheel-drive, Cary Kendall and co-driver Scott Friberg took the G5 win in a Dodge SRT-4, and Group 2 went to Michel Hoche-Mong and co-driver Sameer Parekh in their Volkswagen GTI.In addition to the 2007 Rally America National Championship title, drivers are competing for entry into X Games 13.

www.rally-america.com

http://www.rlagemann.com/

Boston GAA Sunday, May, 20th 2007

All Boston GAA games for today have been canceled due to weather.

John Duddy heads home to Derry

John Duddy bids farewell to the US Boxing scene if only for a while [Photo/ Neil McDaid]

By Neil McDaid

New York, NY - May 18, 2007 - Ireland’s John Duddy closes what could be called the first chapter in his young pro career, a career that is thought by some to be headed for a bid at the middleweight world championship title. In his last scheduled US fight Duddy would make it victory # 20 by going the distance with Dupre Strickland at the Beacon Theater in NYC. Duddy plans to return home this week to disclose his plans for his first fight as a professional in his native Ireland.

Chapter one

September 19,2003 - Far from his beloved native Derry City, Ireland John Duddy, virtually an unknowing fighter outside of Ireland, would make his pro debut at Jimmy's Bronx Café in NY. He scored a first round knock out over Tarek Rached.
Duddy, a somewhat frustrated amateur fighter struggling to turn pro in Ireland, was approached by the McLaughlin Brothers of Irish Ropes Boxing and was convinced to join their team in the United States. With explosive first round knockouts recorded in his first three fights, Duddy would quickly assemble a very vocal Irish fan base in his corner at every fight.

March 18, 2005 - Foxwoods Resort, CT - With eight fights and eight victories under his belt John Duddy would find his way onto the under card of fellow Irish heavyweight Kevin McBride. Going in as the underdog, Duddy would face off against the much hyped “Haitian Sensation” Lenard Pierre. With ESPN broadcasting live to thousands, John Duddy would explode onto the US boxing scene. One minute and 23 seconds was all it would take for the “Derry Destroyer” to stop Pierre. Duddy’s performance on the night would outshine the main event.

In June of 05, Duddy and Irish Ropes would step onto the canvas of one of the most famous boxing venues in the world, Madison Square Garden (MSG). Scheduled on the under card of the WBO Light Welterweight Title fight between Miguel Cotto and Mohamad Abdulaey. Duddy would go the distance in a eight round match up with Patrick Thomson, where he eventfully take victory by UD.

July 05 - Chicago, IL - ESPN Friday Night Fights would feature Duddy as the main event. John would face off with a crafty veteran of 43 fights, Patrick ‘The Cat” Colman. Colman found his way to open a cut on Duddy’s right eye and, for the most part, Colman did a good job to hang in with the younger Irish man through 7 1/2 rounds, before John sent him to the canvas for the full count in the eighth and final. Duddy would have three more fights in 2005, none of which were against any meaningful opponents, for a total of 7.

Duddy would start 2006, with a Boston appearance against Julio Jean. This would be his first 10-round bout and a good test of stamina. The fight would go the distance, with the judges awarding the victory to Duddy, 100-90100-9099-91.

March 16, 2006, would see Irish Ropes pack the Theater at Madison Square Garden for their first professional show as a promoter. With the vacant WBC Continental Americas Middleweight title on the line, Duddy would devastate Shelby Pudwill in the first round to the thunderous roar of his now growing Irish following.

By early June Duddy would again be climbing between the ropes at MSG , John would defend his WBC title against Alfredo “Freddy” Cuevas. Scheduled for 12, John would unloaded a brutal attack that would soon have his opponent bleeding profusely from the bridge of his nose. Alfredo’s corner would throw in the towel saving their fighter from further injury. Duddy chalked up victory # 17.

Sep. 29th 2006, Duddy meets Yory Boy

Wherever John Duddy goes from here, he will most likely never forget the fight that turned him from an interesting prospect to a contender. Almost three years to the day from when John made his pro debut he would step back into the now familiar ring at Madison Square Garden to face Mexican national Yory Boy Campas.
This was new ground for Duddy, a step up; a step he needed to make. Yory coming in with some 96 fights on his pro record, 88 victories, 72 by K0, would test the will and the stamina of the younger Duddy as never before. Yory Boy had traded leather with the likes of the great Oscar de la Hoya, Felix Trinidad and notable others.
John Duddy knew very well who Yory Boy was and what he had achieved. But Yory had never heard of the young fighter from the North of Ireland who was trying to make his mark.

With his adoring fans chanting him on, Duddy would open with an explosive first round performance. It was short lived as the veteran soon found one of Duddy’s notable weaknesses. It has become obvious to many that Duddy has a defensive weakness. When in pursuit of a quick knock out he often leaves himself open. Leaving himself open to an experienced fighter like Yory would cost Duddy.
By the end of the second round it was looking like Duddy was in some trouble. He had been rocked by Campas and was sporting a nasty cut over his left blinker. Campas would continue the attack through the fifth, balancing Duddy with equally as nasty a gash over his right blinker. Duddy looked drained as he sat on his stool between rounds while his cut man, George Mitchell, worked quickly to plug to flow of blood flowing from John’s injuries.
John somehow managed to pull from his own experiences and began to turn the tide on Campas. Into the eighth and ninth rounds, Duddy would throw caution to the wind in an effort to try and sway the judges in his favor. But the experienced Yory would pull from his reserves in the last minutes of this brutal 12 round bout and would again rock Duddy leaving his fans speechless. John struggled and again had to dig deep to stay on his feet.
With the fans in awe of the fight, the war, they had just witnessed there was an airy uncertainty. Had their man Duddy done enough to take the victory over Yory, and also claim title to the IBA Middleweight belt that was also on the line?
Relief, follow by thunders roars, was the reaction when the ring announcer proclaimed Duddy the winner. There is no question that Duddy had dodged the bullet on this night. There was no question that he had the heart of a true fighter; he had the will to survive.
John paid the price early in the fight by not sticking with the pre-fight plan, to use his jab and work the body. Not using the jab let Campas in to inflict damage early on Duddy.

2007

Duddy would take his time to recover and reflect on his experience with the veteran. We would not see him back in the ring until March of 07.
Anthony “The Bullet” Bonsante, who found his fame as a featured fighter on the somewhat popular TV show “The Contender”, would face John in the Second Annual Irish Ropes St. Patrick’s Day show at Madison Square Garden. Duddy’s layoff would show on this night; John looked rusted. Regardless, he would claim the victory [fight report available here].

May 18, 2007 - For this, his final scheduled US bout for 07, things did not go exactly the way John and Irish Ropes had hoped. They had wanted to go out in style using the same explosive style and early knockout excitement that drew such a following to this charismatic fighter.
Duddy controls early in the first, sending his somewhat awkward opponent Dupre Strickland to the mat. However, Strickland would find his legs and continue.
On to the second, Strickland would find the opening that Duddy shows often. Duddy would get tagged; blood showing from his right eye. George Mitchell would have to tend to the cut several times throughout the bout. Duddy would spend most of the fight hunting down Strickland.
This was just a mess. Duddy deserves better opponents than this and so do his fans. John took a major step forward with Yory Boy, Bonsante was respectable, but Stickland was definitely a step back. Although Duddy has come a long way and is well attended by his Irish fans in the greater New York area, he will also need to start fighting outside his comfort zone, Madison Square Garden, to further gain the attention of the general boxing audience.

Duddy heads home to Ireland

It will be interesting to see how things develop in Ireland. There has been much talk and speculation on who Duddy will face in July. Will Irish Ropes, keep their ship in safe waters and away from “The Rock”?
That being said, of course all of Ireland and all us lost souls abhus-anseo[over here] will be looking to see a match up with Jim Rock and Duddy. If not, at least Matt Macklin should be a consideration. Interesting times ahead. After his press conference next week in Ireland John will return to New York to attend a charity function for his foundation
Stay tuned for the next chapter on “Ireland’s” John Duddy.

NY,NY, May 18th. Duddy takes the victory over Strickland

John Duddy's cutman George Mitchell [photo/NeilMcDaid]

“Can you see me now?” John Duddy has big George Mitchell to thank for keeping an early cut over his right eye in check so that Duddy could take victory number 20..More to come.

Olympus Rally, Wash. USA

Andrew Pinker will be looking for a repeat of his performance in Oregon [Photo/ Neil McDaid]

OLYMPIA, Wash., May 15, 2007 - The top rally drivers in the country will battle each other and the rugged terrain of the Pacific Northwest when the Rally America National Championship Series moves to Washington State for the Olympus Rally on May 19 and 20.
A demanding and technical course that winds through dense forest and over 125 miles of dirt and gravel roads in and around Olympia, Wash., the Olympus Rally is also known for the unpredictable -- and often inclement -- weather characteristic of the region. The constantly changing surface conditions produce hours of exciting racing action for competitors and spectators alike.
"The opportunity to race in the Pacific Northwest is a wonderful experience for our drivers and our fans," said J.B Niday, managing director of Rally America. "The Olympus Rally is an exciting and historic event for our national and regional racers to compete in. With a deep field of competitors, racers will compete on a variety of road conditions as they challenge one another for valuable points."
Although a new addition to the Rally America schedule for 2007, the Olympus Rally was part of the first SCCA PRO Rally Championship in 1973 and was a World Rally Championship race from 1986-1988. Rally racing legends such as Rod Millen, Juha Kankkunen and American John Buffum have claimed victories at the famed event.
Rally America drivers compete in street-legal vehicles that are modified for safety. Six vehicle classes, ranging from stock to highly modified, compete under the Rally America banner. Eleven different automobile manufacturers are represented in Rally America events, led by Subaru, Mitsubishi, Dodge, Ford and Volkswagen.

Entering the Olympus Rally, the top four drivers in the 2007 Rally America standings are separated by just 10 points. After three of nine events, Ken Block and co-driver Alessandro Gelsomino lead the standings, followed by Tanner Foust and co-driver Christine Beavis. The 2006 Rally America national champions, Travis Pastrana and co-driver Christian Edstrom, are third, while Oregon Trail Rally winner Andrew Pinker is fourth.

In addition to the 2007 Rally America National Championship title, drivers are competing for entry into X Games 13. For the second consecutive year, rally racing will be featured in the Summer X Games, with the first five races of the 2007 Rally America season serving as qualifying events for the popular action-sport competition.
-credit: olympusrally.com

Boston GAA, Sunday May 13, 2007

2007 Pat O'Brien Memorial Cup final, Donegal vs. McAnespies [Tyrone]

A great start to the 2007 season for McAnespies [Photo/report by Neil McDaid]

Lined out in the Tyrone away colors, Aiden McAnespies would get the upper hand on the Tir Chonaill men to claim the 2007 Pat O’Brien Memorial Cup.
McAnespies Peadar Nugent would inflict pain early with a point from play. Shortly there after Nugent would also work his way into the space driving one past Donegal’s keeper Jonathon Byrne.
Showing some great form Donnacha Gallagher would score from a free to get things rolling for Donegal. Michael McGinty would also bend one in under pressure from the McAnespie back line.

Donegal tried their best to keep Paddy McCusker wrapped up.[Photo/Neil McDaid]

By the half McAnespies were up by a goal and looked to be in control of the game. Donegal would net in the second, but McAnespies answered quickly with a brash of points to stay ahead. Although it is early in the season, McAnespies are looking like a team hungry to repeat their performance of '06, Donegal brought their B game and walked away empty handed . Final score 1-11 to 1-08

Like one from middle earth, McGettigan was flying low for the McAnespies [photo/Neil McDaid]

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Orla Benson Cup semi final, Tir Na Nog vs. The Boston Shamrocks

Shamrocks' Maura Walsh lines up one of her two points.[photo/Neil McDaid]

Tir na Nog faltered on their second chance to make it into the final of the Orla Benson Cup final next Sunday. Despite getting the first score on the board they were clearly out classed by The Shamrocks. An early goal from Paula Callaghan would see Shamrocks ahead at the half 1-03 to 0-03.
Shamrocks' Sinead Walsh would point from a free to open the scoring after the break. Despite their three points in the first half, Tir Na Nog had nothing for the Shamrocks in the second. Maura Walsh would add a couple of fine points from play to cap off a good effort. Final score 1-08 to 1-03.
From here it’s on to the cup final for the Shamrocks where they will meet Roscommon next Sunday.

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Sheehan Cup semi final, Cork vs. Fr. Toms

Tom's Kevin Kilkenny heading for the cork uprights [Photo/ Neil McDaid]

The rebels fall, and fall hard to Fr. Toms. There was little question where this game was going from the start. Toms' Mark Walden cranked up the tempo early, and terrorized the Cork uprights by driving home a few great points from play. A scramble in front of the Toms' net would result in a soft goal for Cork. This, along with a single point, would be as close as this game would get.

Finding himself open Toms' Kieran Moore would slip through the Cork back line and blast one into the back of the waiting net raising the green flag to push Toms ahead at the half.
Despite a point from a free in the opening minutes of the second half Cork were at sea without an oar. They were clearly outclassed and out hurled by the Toms. Final score 1:08 to 1:02.

Toms will go on to meet Tipp in the Sheehan cup final next Sunday. I expect that Tipp will have the upper hand over the Toms.

Rally Tennessee

The old dog for the hard road

Still looking for a trouble free run, Seamus Burke would have

to dig deep to keep Donnelly at bay.

By Neil McDaid

Linden, TN. May 5, 2007. Coming back as Rally Tennessee’s defending champion, Seamus Burke was looking to just finish the 2007 event. Burke, who has been plagued by mechanical issues in his last two outings, came into Rally Tennessee trailing his fellow Irish driver Charlie Donnelly in the 2007 United States Rally Championship.

Rally Tennessee is one of very few all tarmac tests in the USA. It is known as a fast technical rally;definitely not for the faint of heart. The rally got underway at 8.20am from the Perry County High School in Linden, TN.

Charlie Donnelly, with co-driver Noel Gallagher in the ex-Lawless Mitsubishi Evo8, would set off first on SS1. Donnelly stopped the clocks on the 5.85-mile stage with a time of 4mins 50secs. Running second on the road, the defending USRC Champion, Seamus Burke, with co-driver Eddie Fries, was determined to set the pace early on SS1, “Tree Farm Stage”.

By the end of the first test, Burke had placed his Shamrock Building Systems sponsored Mitsubishi in first with a time of 4mins 44secs.

Third fastest on the opening stage was the defending Eastern States Rally Champion, Danny O’Brien. Dominick Jozwiak would be charged with calling the notes for O’Brien in his newly built Subaru STI. O’Brien would set a time of 4mins 54secs. Eoin McGeogh and Stephen Duffy would set a time of 4mins 58secs to put them fourth overall in their Evo IV.

They were followed by Charles Sherrill, in a similar Mitsubishi, with a time of 5mins 5secs to put him fifth quickest.

Enda McCormack and co-driver Bernard Farrell would fall victim to a high speed spin in the first loop of stages. McCormack’s Evo would get light over a fast crest. Despite the best efforts of Enda the car would go off into a ditch with some large embedded rocks causing enough damage that the team could not continue.

Stage 2, Owl Hollow, would see Burke extend his margin by 5 seconds over Donnelly to lead by 11 seconds. Never one to hold back, Donnelly would charge back and take a full 6 seconds off Burke on SS 3, Tree Farm.

Eoin McGeogh would be the second of the seven Irish teams entered to retire with a broken half shaft in his Mitsubishi on SS3.

Burke responded on SS4, Owl Hollow. He was quickest by just 2 seconds to end the first loop of stages with a 7 second lead over second placed Donnelly. Danny O’Brien would hold on to third but was beginning to suffer from overheating problems. He decided to save the motor and pulled out of the rally.

On the second loop of stages Burke’s Mitsubishi would develop a fuel problem causing the car to run on three cylinders. Donnelly would take full advantage of Burke’s mechanical issues to claw back some time, narrowing the gap to just 5 seconds after eight stages.

While Burke and Donnelly battled it out for 1st and 2nd, Charles Sherrill was having a battle of his own keeping the Wimpey brothers, Josh and Jeremy, at bay for third.

Josh once again drove the door handles off his M2 VW Golf, staying within mere seconds of the faster Evo4 on several stages.

Thanks to his hard working service crew Burke’s Shamrock Building Systems car would leave the service area to tackle what was to be the final loop of stages, running on all four cylinders.

A cautious run by Burke on SS 9, Short Cree, in a time of 1min 28secs, would open the door for Donnelly to narrow the gap when he posted a time of 1min 26secs. Burke still held the overall lead but the gap to Donnelly was just 3seconds.

There was high drama for Burke on SS10, Hohenwold. About 9 miles in to the 11.5 mile stage, Burke’s brake paddle would go to the floor. Miraculously, he somehow managed to continue to the end of the stage posting a time of 9mins 9secs over the tricky 11.5 mile stage.

Despite his lack of stopping power, Burke was faster by 9 seconds over Donnelly, who would post a time of 9mins 18secs.

Burke had again widened the gap to maintain an overall lead of 12 seconds with two stages remaining. Knowing that Donnelly would charge all the way to the finish line, Burke would push his pace a little too hard on SS11, Short Creek, resulting in a hairy high speed off road excursion through some trees. Luckily for Burke and Fries they managed to get back onto the road unharmed, but lost about 5 second on their time. Heading into the final stage of the day SS12,Hohenwold, there was a mere 7 seconds separating first and second, Burke and Donnelly.

To add to the tension on the final stage, the skies would open and rain would begin to dampen the roads. With most drivers running on dry slick tires, nerves were on edge. Burke would put to good use his many years of experience on Ireland’s wet tarmac stages. He drove his Mitsubishi to victory on the final stage, setting a time of 9mins 31secs; a blistering 13seconds faster than Donnelly.

Seamus Burke and co-driver Eddie Fries won the 2007 Rally Tennessee. Burke covered the 70.96 stage miles in a time of 57mins 44secs, beatingDonnelly’s time of 58mins 04secs.

Unfortunately for Donnelly he would be handed a 5 minute penalty for a chicane infraction, relegating him to third overall. Charles Sherrill would take second place. The Wimpy brothers put in a fantastic drive to grab 4th overall, also taking 1st in the G2 Class.

Rally Tennessee counts as round two of the [ESRC] Eastern States Rally Championship and round four of the [USRC] United States Rally Championship.

Donnelly still holds a commanding advantage in points in the overall race to the 2007 United States Rally Championship.

Rounding it out for the Irish in seventh overall, brothers Michael and John O’Leary were very satisfied with their achievement. Making the long trek down from Boston, Larry Duane and Eamon Sweeney brought their Sea-Biscuit Racing Corolla home in eighth overall and third in G2 Class.

Roll on STPR!

Boston GAA

The Pat O'Brien Cup, semi finals. Donegal Vs Kerry and McAnespies Vs Galway

Donegal’s Michael McGinty sent his first attempt a bit to the Stranorlar side, early days yet an extra tug on the boots should sort things out.

Donegal Vs Kerry Photo/ Neil McDaid

Canton, Ma. May 6, 2007 - Donegal would claim a place in the Pat O’Brien Cup final after taking care of Kerry in the first of the semi-finals played on this day. Donnacha Gallagher would point for Donegal to get things underway. It was to be a lead that the boys from the Northwest would never relinquish.
Kerry showed little organization as Donegal controlled the play and continued to pile on the scores.
Down by 1:06 with only a minute in regular time on the clock, Kerry would make one last desperate drive on the Donegal net. Although Donegal’s keeper Marty Callaghan caught the ball he was unable to keep it from crossing the line. Final score 1-09 to 1-03

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McAnespies Vs Galway

McAnespies Vs Galway Photo/Neil McDaid

No surprises in the second semi-final; McAnespies [Tyrone], the clear favorites going in, would run riot over Galway. McAnespies, the defending 2006 Boston North East Champions, are showing some great early season form. Although Galway did manage the first score, it was not long until a nice ball from McAnespies mid-fielder Nail Donaghy was delivered to the boot of Benny McGettigan. McGettigan wasted no time in burying the ball into the back of the Galway net. This would be the first of two goals for the red headed wonder. Colm ‘Minnie” McCory was seeing yellow from referee Gerry Rowley for rough play just before the half time mark.
McAnespies would keep the pressure on into the second half. An unmarked Paddy McCusker would add to the goal tally taking all hope of a miraculous recovery from Galway. Tempers flared late in the game resulting in the ejection of two players [one from each side]. Final score in favor of the Mc's 3-06 to 0-06. [Galway again lined out in Wexford colors]
The stage is set for a classic Boston Gaa clash as McAnespies will meet Donegal in the O’Brien cup final.
If past performances are anything to go on, it will be well worth the price of admission, for there is no love lost between these two strong northern sides. After today’s performances McAnespies are showing as the stronger team going into the final.

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The Orla Benson Cup semi final [1]

Photo/Neil McDaid
Orla Benson cup:
The 2007 season opener for ladies football would get underway with the first qualifier for the Orla Benson Cup. Although not representative of the final score, Roscommon had the upper hand on Tir Na Nog throughout the game, aided by a goal in the first half via a hand pass from Stephanie Flynn. The final score 1-08 to 1-03. Despite the loss, Tir Na Nog will get another crack next Sunday when they meet the Shamrocks. The winner will go on to meet Roscommon in the final.

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The Sheehan cup semi final [1]

Although this wasn’t championship caliber hurling by any means, Tipp would see off Wexford to mark their spot in the Cup final scheduled for May 20th. Final score 2-06 to 1-05.

In the second of the semi finals, Cork will be hoping that the boat will dock with some much needed help later this week. They are scheduled to meet Fr. Toms next Sunday to decide who will meet Tipp in the final.

Charlie Collins gets the inside scoop from Eugene on his engine fire in the Donegal International Rally 2006

Eugene Donnelly joins forces with Reid Motorsport

It was announced today that a deal has been struck between brothers Liam and Shaun Reid of Reid Motorsport and current Irish Tarmac And National Champions Eugene and Charlie Donnelly to join the Reid Motorsport Team.

The Reid Motorsport team was set up at the beginning of this year with big name sponsors like Kerr’s Tyres, BF Goodrich, P&O Irish Sea and Reid Transport, the back bone of The Reid Group Companies.

There were smiles all round as the announcement was made at the Reid Transport head offices in the Co Antrim village of Cloughmills outside Ballymena. Managing director of Reid Transport and the main instigator of the Reid Motorsport team, Liam Reid announced the exciting news saying. “This is a deal I hope will combine the experience and enthusiasm needed to move forward towards clinching this years Tarmac championship and a successful outing on the much anticipated WRC arrival of Rally Ireland.” Members of the Reid Motorsport Team welcomed the Donnelly Brothers to what has now become a four car rally team.

Eugene Donnelly on the attack in Donegal International Rally 2006

Tarmac champion Eugene Donnelly confirmed the good news adding. “This is a dream come true for Charlie and I as we have worked so hard now for many years to get a deal like this to come our way, it gives us an opportunity to relax from the pressure of the day to day roles of running and managing all the financial affairs and expenses involved in competing at this level.

Things will obviously change in some respects but on the whole we are really excited about what’s happening.” Derek Mc Geehan and his team will continue to work on the Subaru WRC as both Liam and Eugene feel his experience and meticulous attention to detail will be all important in achieving the team’s goals.

On a sadder note the Donnelly brothers will be losing long time sponsors, some of whom they have been working with for many years like Kumho Tyres, Modern Tyre Services, Esker Bus & Coach, KVC Manufacturing Ltd and Shanette Shed Centre, all of whom have provided financial support and assistance over the years resulting in many rally and championship wins which was and is very much appreciated. Also we would like to thank all our tried and trusted fans for there continued support and encouragement over the years and ask them “to continue by putting all that belief and energy behind us as we move forward to a new era and look forward to a long and successful winning relationship with the Reid Motorsport Team.”

Rally Tennessee

New York, NY, May 1 2007. Charlie [Celsus] Donnelly the current points leader in the United States Rally Championship heads south this week to Tennessee, where he hopes to keep his winning streak alive. Charlie [right] pictured here with his co-driver Noel Gallagher will compete in his open class Mitsubishi Evo 8 this coming Saturday at Rally Tennessee.
A welcome departure for the dusty gravel stages, Rally Tennessee will be an all tarmac event, and will count as round four of the USRC.
This will also be the second event on the east coast where we will see Motorcycles compete in the new RallyMoto series. Some 25 cars and 9 motorcycles are expected to start from the town of Linden, TN.

For more info on the event and results go to www.rallytennessee.com