Belgian Blue-cross heifer just the ticket in raffle
An 18 month-old U-grade Belgian Blue-cross heifer or €2500 in cash are the top prizes in a raffle being run by Borris-in-Ossory/Kilcotton GAA in Laois.
There are also three smaller cash prizes in the raffle, with its social media campaign launched this weekend.
John Bergin, club treasurer said: "This fundraiser has been in the planning for the last few months and a lot of work has been done behind the scenes.
"A committee was established to run the raffle and work began in detail when the heifer was purchased at the end of last year."
The fundraising raffle is being run over the next three months, with the draw taking place on Friday, August 1, at 9:00pm. The closing date is Thursday, July 31.
Borris-in-Ossory/Kilcotton GAA was established in 2011, with the coming together of two local clubs in the parish.
"The club caters for about 100 adult players and close to 200 juveniles. We have 10 hurling teams from nursery up to senior level, playing in competitive and non-competitive games throughout the year.
"We also have a very successful and vibrant LGFA Gaelic4Mothers & Others team in the club," Bergin said.
The club’s main focus may be hurling, but it remains heavily involved in the community. A charity walk is held every Christmas where funds are raised for local charities.
The annual road hurling event, which takes place on the June Bank Holiday weekend has proven to be a popular and well-attended event. Along with the raffle, table quizzes, barbecues, and car washes are other fundraising events held regularly.
"The parish has a growing population and Borris-in-Ossory/Kilcotton offers a sporting and social outlet for local children and young people." the treasurer said
"It also gives new members of the community a real opportunity to get involved locally as a coach or administrator. The club is and wants to remain at the heart of the community
"All of these activities and commitments are largely provided for through fundraising. The club is lucky to have great support from the local community and our generous sponsors.
"We hope that this will continue and that the raffle will be a success," he said.
Tickets for the Belgian Blue raffle are available online via Instagram, Facebook and X and are priced at €10:00 each or 6 for €50:00.
