The legacy of one of north Dublin’s most tireless fundraisers was celebrated as he would have wanted it last week, with a charity golf classic which has now raised over €130,000 for St Michael’s House in 12 years.
The Noel Hughes Memorial Golf Classic in aid of St Michael's House commemorates a man who single-handedly raised over €100,000 for the charity through ten enjoyable annual golf classics. Much-loved Donabate member Noel passed away 18 months ago and it was his wish that his family and friends carry on his fundraising efforts for the charity. 120 golfers and friends of the charity teed off in 30 teams to support the second sun-kissed annual memorial event at Donabate Golf Club last week, resulting in over €14,000 being collected for the charity this year.
“The classic was originally organised by Noel from Grange Park, to raise funds for his son Kevin’s residential home at Sallowood, Santry Avenue, and Castle Day Service, which he attends in Coolock,” said his son Darren. “We, and many other families like us, are indebted to St Michael’s House for the work that they do.
“Thanks to the support of his care workers, Kevin and his friends have the confidence and skills to perform many tasks that enrich their lives.
“This classic provides practical help – this year we will be part-funding an interactive projector that promotes both mental and physical stimulation.
“On behalf of my mam Pauline and my two brothers, I’d like to thank Kevin’s care workers, and all of our friends and club colleagues who supported the classic – with special thanks to his friend Pat McNeill who did so much to make the day a success.
“Thanks to his pals, his very dear long-term supporters and Donabate Golf Club, we as a family are committed to keeping the classic going on an annual basis.”
Darren also thanked the many commercial supporters of the classic, including Bewley’s, Ad Vantage Media, Boann Distillery and Ian Carberry Refrigeration.
St Michael’s House provides a range of services to 1600 children and adults with an intellectual disability in over 170 centres in the Greater Dublin Area and Navan in Co Meath.
Aisling Shanley from St Michael’s House Fundraising Department praised Noel’s legacy and fundraising work over the years. “Noel was a real hero. Every year he worked tirelessly, and enthusiastically to raise funds for our services – always with a special welcome for everyone and a smile on his face. We at St Michael’s House will be forever grateful to him for his energy, enthusiasm and genuine interest in helping our staff and the services that they provide.”
The golf classic was won on 101 points by Albert Baker, Tom O’Connor, Pat Harrington, John O’Donovan.
In second place, on 99 points were: Pat Brennan, Paul Cunningham, Paul Dowling, Fintan Hickey.
The ladies team prize went to: Mary Clinton, Mary Cullen, Louise Clinton, Ciara McGuire with 86 points.