Recollections of the Ardmore Pattern.

Back in the swinging sixties I remember vividly the Ardmore Pattern and the ‘rounds’ at St.Declans Well.As a little boy in Curragh would there ever be a bigger and more and exciting event than the Ardmore Pattern. There would be an all week build up to with the crowds from Grange passing through Curragh walking and cycling to St.Declan’s Well.

Pattern Sunday would remind you of Liberty Square in Thurles on a Munster Final Sunday with the crowds from far and near milling around. After the Mass the ‘hawkers’ could be seen setting up their stalls along by the wall of the Boathouse and you eyes gazed along at all the glittering prizes that.Agnes Penders was the only place then before Perks that hot refreshments could be purchased.

After dinner back across the strand with the money burning a hole in my pocket to try my hand at winning by throwing the six rings. Alas it looked very easy but I never succeeded and as far as I can remember I don’t ever remember anyone else succeeding either.

Thinking back on the Ardmore Pattern the following come fleeting back The Murphy Cup Tournament,’Hawkers’, The ‘Rounds’ at St Declan’s Well, The Pattern Festival, Perks, The Unofficial Local Bank Holiday that was St.Declan’s Day.