23/08/2026
Lixnaw Community Games:
This past weekend Lixnaw parish had 10 athletes competing at the National Community Games in Carlow.
First up was our U.13 Mixed Relay team comprising of: Kayla Matthews, Nessa McElligott, Liam Heffernan, Peter Hayes and Robbie Larkin. The team ran very well in their heat to qualify for the semi-finals. Against tougher competition in this race, they again crossed the line in fourth position, qualifying for the final. With three races, nine seamless baton changes and great heart, the team finished fifth in the final, out of 23 teams in the competition. These young athletes admirably represented their parish on the National stage.
Cillian Quilter was next to compete for Lixnaw in the U.14 Javelin. With powerful throwing, Cillian qualified for the final 8 in this event of 31 competitors. Strong competition kept Cillian outside the medals. However a fantastic achievement to reach this level, representing Kerry.
Our second relay to compete on the day was the U.16 Boys. Richie Reidy, Ruairi O'Brien, Ethan Stack and Donnacha Quilter lined up for a straight final. Each of these lads have previously represented Kerry in relay teams. This experience showed in their drive and excellent baton changes. But despite great effort by the team to win a medal, they finished 6th out of the 8 counties. Nevertheless, a fine performance. Well done boys.
In his last year in Community Games, Donnacha Quilter competed in the U.16 200m. This race exhibits an athlete's speed, stamina and pure grit. This well describes Donnacha's heat, semi-final and final effort. In this last race, Donnacha made great ground on the bend, to get into 4th position, which he held to claim the Pewter medal. A superb accomplishment by Donnacha and a great way to finish his years with Community Games.
Thanks to all the parents and supporters who travelled to Carlow and made the day enjoyable. As Community Games in the area comes to an end for 2026, the committee would like to thank all the children who participated throughout the year in various events. Leac Snámha Abú, Ciarraí Abú, sin sin.
