Last Saturday night, Castlebar Celtic marked their 100th anniversary at TF Royal. The event, attended by nearly 400 people, transformed the TF’s main theatre into a vibrant celebration of the club’s rich history, with the iconic green and white colours adorning the venue.
The event was hosted by Western People sports reporter Stuart Tynam.
The evening was expertly hosted by Stuart Tynam, a sports reporter for the Western People. Adding to the excitement, the special guest of honour was none other than Packie Bonner, the legendary former goalkeeper for Glasgow Celtic and the Republic of Ireland. Bonner was in great form, sharing nostalgic stories from his illustrious career and offering advice to the current Castlebar Celtic players.
“Enjoy it while you can,” Bonner urged the players. “When I played junior football, we only started when I was about 16 years old. Enjoy it, it runs very quickly. I retired when I was 35 – and I missed out on the big money by the way!” he joked.
The night also featured an important announcement from David Courell, Interim Chief Executive of the FAI and a proud Castlebar native. Courell revealed ongoing negotiations between the FAI and Mayo County Council to acquire the old swimming pool building next to Celtic Park, which would allow the club to expand its facilities. He also highlighted the FAI’s support for a Council application for a sports capital grant to develop a sports hub at Knockphunta, Westport Road, which would benefit a wide range of sporting activities.
“These projects represent a genuine opportunity for Mayo County Council and the Department of Sport not only to celebrate the last 100 years of Castlebar Celtic but to ensure the next 100 years are equally as promising.”
The night included a heartfelt tribute to the late Pat Quigley, a former FAI President, and his wife Eleanor. Courell praised Pat’s significant contributions to football in Castlebar and Mayo, acknowledging him as a foundational figure in the sport’s local history.
The TF Royal was proud to host such a significant event, celebrating both Castlebar and Castlebar Celtic’s remarkable legacy and looking forward to an even more promising future.
I just wanted to say thank you thank thank you. Your support, knowledge and professionalism over the last few days made last night the success that it was, and it didn't go unnoticed! There wasn't one complaint all night ....even on the seating arrangement! The place looked amazing from the minute we walked in door of the green room to our seats and that was down to you.
