ULSTER FLEADH SUCCESS FOR ARDS CCE
IT was an astonishing weekend of success for Ards CCE at the Ulster Fleadh with a host of group wins plus individual triumph for a record-breaking Seamus McClean.
Their run of wins at the Dromore competition in Co Tyrone means Ards CCE will be sending their largest ever contingent to the All-Ireland Fleadh in Mullingar.
In fact over 60 of their musicians will be competing in the Irish traditional music event this August.
They secured their places through their exceptional performances against tough competition from 52 Grúpa Cheoils at the Ulster Fleadh, which took place last Saturday and Sunday.
Just eight of these 52 groups were chosen to progress to the All-Ireland competitions and three of these qualifying positions were awarded to Ards CCÉ.
In addition to Group successes, Ards CCE also achieved a wide range of solo successes, none more so than Seamus McClean who broke all branch records.
Seamus lifted an incredible four Ulster Solo Championship titles as well as an Ulster Group Championship title.
Ards CCÉ chairman, Niall McClean, commented, “We are so unbelievably proud of all our wonderful musicians and tutors who have worked tirelessly over the last few months learning tunes, perfecting arrangements and attending practices.
“We have no doubt that they will represent Ulster and Bangor to the very best of their ability in Mullingar this August.”
RESULTS
Ards CCE Under 12 Grúpa Cheoil: 1st Place ULSTER CHAMPIONS
Ards CCE 15-18 Grúpa Cheoil: 2nd Place
Ards CCE Senior Grúpa Cheoil: 2nd Place
Under 12 Uillean Pipes: Seamus McClean 1st Place ULSTER CHAMPION
Under 12 Uillean Pipes Slow Airs: Seamus McClean 1st Place ULSTER CHAMPION
12-15 Uillean Pipes Slow Airs: Cabhan Keag 2nd Place
Under 12 Tin Whistle: Seamus McClean 1st Place ULSTER CHAMPION
Under 12 Tin Whistle Slow Airs: Seamus McClean 1st Place ULSTER CHAMPION
Under 12 Tin Whistle Slow Airs: Conal Corsar 2nd Place
12-15 Tin Whistle Slow Airs: Cabhan Keag 3rd Place
Under 12 Flute: Conal Corsar 3rd Place
Under 12 Fiddle Slow Airs: Seren Harris 1st Place ULSTER CHAMPION
Under 12 Fiddle Slow Airs: Seamus McClean 3rd Place
12-15 Miscellaneous: Cabhan Keag 2nd Place
12-15 Comhrá Gaeilge: Derbhla Higgins ALL IRELAND QUALIFIER
15-18 Comhrá Gaeilge: Eamonn Higgins ALL IRELAND QUALIFIER
15-18 Comhrá Gaeilge: Maebh Higgins ALL IRELAND QUALIFIER
