Mullingar Lions Club presents recognition award to Bobbie Begley (2nd Sept)

Mullingar Lions Club presents recognition award to Bobbie Begley

On Wednesday evening 2nd September ahead of the adult training session, we were visited by Frank Dillon and Noel Murphy of Mullingar Lions Club. The purpose of their visit was to make a presentation to Bobbie Begley. This was to mark Bobbie’s contribution to athletics and in particular the founding and development of Mullingar Harriers over 50 years ago in 1975. Frank Dillon made the presentation and in his address spoke of the contribution by Bobbie to the people of Mullingar through his work and that of his colleagues in the development of the club and its continuing place in the lives of so many in Mullingar and beyond. Frank set out that this award was first presented in 2024 and is named after the late Paddy Dunican, recognising individuals who contribute significantly to the Mullingar area in terms of people and community enhancement. It was, Frank set out, fitting to honour Bobbie Begley with the 2026 award, as Mullingar Harriers had just marked 50 years and is recognised for its excellence in the promotion of athletics and the continuing development of all members. Bobbie addressed those present and thanked the Lions Club for their acknowledgement of the club and its achievements. It is an award not for Bobbie Begley but for all who worked so hard and dedicated themselves to enhancing the facilities at Grange which started in the late 1970s in what was a field with a single container to house basic pieces of equipment. Today the club proudly operates from an ever-improving clubhouse and has both a fully operational tartan track, gravel surfaced outside track, along with field event throwing and jumping facilities to cater for members [MO’S].