Civic Reception for Hillview Masters

Last Friday 27th March at the Council Chambers, the Mayor of Clonmel Mr Martin O'Brien offered a civic reception to the achivements of David Hallinan, Margaret Slattery, Rory & Laura O'Hanrahan for their historic achievements in 2008. A huge turnout from both the Hillview Club and Tipperary Co Board ensured that our players got the support required for this unique occassion.

David Hallinan lived up to all the expectation when he captured the All Ireland Junior Strokeplay at Tullamore last July. The ever popular David showed how good he really was when he brought home the title to give Hillview their first Adult Individual National Title since 1961.

Next in line for honours were the dynamic duo of brother and sister Rory & Laura O'Hanrahan. At Castletown in Meath in late September of 2008, Rory & Laura showed maturity beyond their years to capture the All Ireland Mixed Foursomes for the second time in Hillview's history. Bringing home a total of 18up for 36 holes ensured that the Hillview duo would hold of the challenge of the 2007 winners Tracey & Joe McGrath of Erry. This is a tremendous honour for these two young prospects and they have very bright futures ahead of them.

Finally, Margaret Slattery who had the unenviable task of playing on home soil when she set out in trying to win the All Ireland O'55 Ladies Intermediate Strokeplay Title. Could Margaret live up to the pressures of her home course and what was expected of her? Of course she could but not without some drama. Margaret had to endure a 9 hole play off against Veronica Clarke of Killbeggan to snatch victory. Margaret now has the distinction of becoming the first Adult Lady to bring a National Individual title to Hillview.

All four players can be very proud of their achievements and can all look forward to 2009 with great enthusiasm.