Busy summer at Finvoy YFC

A very successful Big Breakfast was held on Saturday 21st May at Finvoy Presbyterian Church Hall. All proceeds went to the provision of an automated external defibrillator for the church hall which is used by the young farmers and other members of the community. The club is very thankful for all the support they received.

A few days later on Friday 27th May, after some practicing, saw members taking part in the Battle of the Choirs Competition hosted by The Community and Rescue Service. The tension mounted as members and Vice Presidents of the club prepared to battle it out against Ballymoney Rugby club, Community Rescue Service and Sainsbury’s. The club were placed third overall after a very enjoyable contest. All proceeds raised went to the Community Rescue Service boat fund. This was in memory of Francis McKeague.

Preparations then began for the annual barbeque which was held on Saturday 11th June, at the premises of Jonny Gambles (Kindly granted). A very enjoyable night was held by all attending and again we would like to thank all those who came from near and far to support us.

The summer shows were next for the club, playing an active part in many of them. Ballymoney and Limavady Show saw our very own Tug O War team gain 3rd place overall. Members then received prizes in Ballymena Show for 1st in the Novelty Challenge and 2nd in the Tractor Handling Competition. At Antrim Show, William Beattie gained 1st place in the tractor Handling, Richard Beattie 1st in United Dairy Farmer and a group of members gaining 2nd in the chairpersons challenge. The club were then delighted to be placed 1st overall on show.

On the 7th July, Finals were held at AFBI Hillsborough for the Finals of stock Judging. Finvoy YFC yet again came up triumphs with members placed 1st overall in the silage assessment were as follows:

Gavin Finney 14-16 age group, Philip Beattie 16-18 age group, Ben Scott 21-25 age group and David Dunlop 25-30 age group.

In the Dairy finals Philip Beattie gained second in the 16-18 age group, William Beattie took second in the 21-25 age group and finally David Dunlop being placed fifth in the 25-30 age group. A very successful event for the Beattie Families.

Competitions didn’t stop there for the members of Finvoy YFC. The junior team taking part in the County Antrim’s Tag Rugby Heats on 21st July went through to the final. These were held on 9th August in Omagh Rugby Club with the junior team gained 3rd place overall and being awarded the fair play award.

It has been a very hectic, busy and enjoyable summer months. As they move into a new programme the clubs key words to remember are ‘remember, remember the 5th November’. This date see’s Finvoy YFC 75th Anniversary Dinner take place in the Royal Court, Portrush. Members would like thank you for all the support over the years and hope everyone will join them in celebrating 75 years of youth, fun, farming, community, successes and friendships - and the odd marriage! Tickets are now available from committee members so book tickets early.