HENRY IS KING OF THE BARDS AGAIN

Henry McGrath from Katesbridge was triumphant in his bid to become the Bard of Armagh 2011 with his epic poem ‘The Priest’.  Henry last won the title in 2003 with ‘My stay in Daisy Hill’.  In an enthralling contest involving 14 well prepared Bards, Henry gave a polished performance which underpinned his natural charm and assured style.  Henry was totally comfortable in front of the audience of 1000, just as he would be sitting by the fireside in the company of two or three.  

John McDonagh from Co Sligo, a first time entrant, came second and really impressed with his poem, ‘Dan Winters Boutique’  Winning the Rosemary Twohig Award for the best female Bard, was Carrickmacross lady, Joan Garvey whose poem

‘Willie Wright’ was a compelling tongue twister was overall joint third.  Her poem is one that will surely be in big demand over the coming months.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Gerry Watters Hall of Fame trophy to Pat McGeeney.  And Pat certainly generated tidal waves of laugher when he revisited his old classic, ‘The Present’

A number of the highlights will feature on a new CD ‘Uplift the Spirit, A Cocktail of Humorous Juices’  due out soon.

Bard Winners 2011

£500 Henry McGrath –                                The Priest.

£400 John McDonagh –                               Dan Winter’s Boutique

£200Joan Rooney –                                       Willie Wright

£200 Finbar Magee -                                   Sarah Sturgeon, the Veterinary Surgeon

£200 Liam McNally –                                    Jelly on the Belly.

And £75 each to:

Nellie McGurk –                                             Wee Jenny’s Trouble

Patrick Montague –                                       Me Mammy

Etty Kilbride -                                               The Love of her Lif

Julie-Ann McCaffrey –                                The Mid-life Crisis

Jimmy Rafferty –                                          The Y Factor

Dermott McEnally –                                      Rambo’s Ramp

Donal McKenna –                                           The Tale of Poor Aul’ Tim McCann

Collette Corrigan -                                        Fairytale in d’ Noose.

Seamus McQuaid –                                        The Life and Times of a Golf Ball