‘Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine’ ~ never more so was this sean fhocail evident as on Sunday 21st August at the 3rd annual ‘Lá Spraoi Chléire ~ Cape Clear Charity Funday’. Saturday afternoon in North Harbour, was a hive of activity as the islanders gathered to begin preparations for the Lá Spraoi. Sweeping brushes were a plenty, as were balloon blowers and poster makers. With the expertise of the men folk, and under the watchful eye of the ladies, the stage was set up and the harbour area festooned in balloons and bunting of all the colours of the rainbow. We were ready! Next morning, the island awoke early to glorious sunshine. Aromas of freshly baked bread and cakes wafted from the houses as the bakers iced their produce for the cake sale. Participating athletes stretched and warmed up, eager to get started in the triathlon which kicked off sharply at 12.15pm. It was a new addition to this years’ line up, but is sure to become an annual event. The ‘Cape Style’ triathlon was a tremendous success. Kayaks at the ready, 12 adults took off paddling in the first leg of the course! First in the relay was Denis Daly and his son Christopher of Carraigaline & Verona Ní Drisceoil, followed by Diarmuid and Eoin of Oileán Chléire. ‘The Dubs’ battled it out in the over 18s with Susie McDonnel coming a close 2nd, a mere hairs breadth behind Jamie O’ Neill in 1st place. Treasa Ní Cheadagáin and Ruairí McCann, Oiléan Chléire were victorious in the under 18s triathlon. The atmosphere was electric and the excitement palpable as the spectators cheered the participants on, thus setting the mood for the remainder of the day. Live music played throughout, headlined by the dynamic duo that is ‘Free Beer’ and supported by 8 other local musicians, and even a set or two was danced on the street! Another first was the ‘Cléire Dog Show’ with many special guests arriving from the mainland specially to partake! The crown however, could only be claimed by the one and only Jessica, who was proudly paraded by owners Caitríona and Danny. Many thanks to Mary and Con O’ Regan, who ran the competition and generously supplied the medals and trophies. Not to be out done by their pets, a few of the owners took part in the sumo wrestling on the beach, generating a giggle or two by all who looked on! The beach was a busy spot on the day with a sandcastle building competition and tug ‘o war also taking place there. After such hectic activities, the kiddies lined up to get their faces painted and the adults waited patiently for an Indian Head Massage from Elenore’s soothing hands. Other games were held during the day such as wellie throwing and socks-on-a-line, and as usual the bouncey castle was a great attraction. To stop and look around at the activities of the day, to listen to the sound of chatter and laughter that filled the air, gave all those involved an immense sense of pride, achievement and gratitude. Proud, to be part of such a wonderful community, for which their sense of community spirit is renowned. Achievement for what can be accomplished when people pull together for such worthy causes. Gratitude for all those who came, took part and enjoyed such a wonderful day. But of course, the true purpose of the day was to raise funds for 3 worthy causes ~ Baltimore RNLI, the Irish Cancer Society and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association. €4525 was raised on the day, with money still coming in. This massive achievement would not be possible were it not for the support and sponsorship of many of the local businesses, the visitors who joined with us that day and of course the people of Oiléan Chléire. To each and everyone we express our sincerest and greatest appreciation. A fíor míle buíochas daoibh uile agus táimid ag tnúth leis an bliain seo chugainn cheanna féin! Le dea ghuí, Niamh