We Raised
with more on the way
Donations are still coming in via our GoFundMe page and we’re thrilled with this continued support.
On Saturday, August 24th, Portmarnock Tennis Club held what can only be described as an unforgettable day of sport, fun, and solidarity in support of the Irish Cancer Society. What began as an idea within the club quickly grew into something far bigger: a community-wide event that brought together families, friends, neighbours, and supporters well beyond our membership.
The programme was packed from morning to evening. A special edition kids camp opened the day, followed by a “Beat the Pro” challenge that kept everyone on their toes. The courts hosted two lively American tournaments for ladies and men, while paddle and pickleball competitions added new flavour. Over at the pool, swimmers took part in a relay that matched the energy on court. Meanwhile, the atmosphere around the club buzzed with cake sales, raffles, music, food, and of course a Pimms bar — with the PSLC café and bar contributing €1 from every coffee and drink sold during their special “power hours.”
The day also saw the return of the “Young Guns”, juniors past and present who filled the courts with skill and energy, reminding us of the joy and promise of tennis for the next generation. Direct donations poured in through our GoFundMe page well in advance of our fundraiser day, showcasing the generosity of this community before we even came together.
One of the most moving elements of the fundraiser came from the stories. Nine current and former club members and families of those we’ve sadly lost shared their experiences with cancer. With immense courage, honesty, and compassion, they described diagnoses, treatments, day-to-day challenges, and the changes they’ve made to their lives. They also gave invaluable advice and messages of hope.
The success of this event belongs to everyone. From those who donated or baked cakes, to those who staffed the Pimm’s bar, ran the competitions, or supported behind the scenes — every effort added up to something far greater. We are humbled by the generosity shown, and proud to say that every euro raised will go directly to the Irish Cancer Society under the umbrella of Portmarnock Tennis Club.
While the name of the club may sit on the fundraising page, this achievement is far bigger than the club alone. It is the product of a whole community pulling together, united by compassion, determination, and hope.
There are too many inidividuals to name and thank here. However, we want to recognise some of the outstanding contributors:
Prize, Time, Energy Donors and Volunteers
Helen Reid, Siobhan McKeever, Miriam Brady, Joanna Dempsey and Paddy Whyte, Derek McKeever, Teresa Farrell, Adrienne and Cecil Ryan, Stephen Reid, Simon Archer, John Fahy, Ronnie Cleary, Nicola O’Neill and Joey Purcell, Conor McKeever, Dermot Kelly, Debbie Browne, Elaine Molphy, Kathleen Kelly, Emer Lowry, Grace McKeever, Harry McKeever, Charlie McKeever, Grace Collier, Rowan Bowe, Eabha McAllister, Fernando Garcia Seeber, Reyna Nixon, Emma Burke, Tristan Burke, Siobhan McKeever, Caroline Jordan, Dave O’Mara — plus the Captains and Committee for their huge support in driving sign-ups.
And to everyone who baked, organised, contributed food, or gave their time and energy — your efforts combined to make this fundraiser the extraordinary success it was.
Special Recognition
Our deepest thanks go to those who graciously allowed their stories to be shared. These were deeply personal accounts of diagnosis, treatment, living with and overcoming cancer — and, in the cases of Bernetta Potter and Shay Coyle, moving tributes written by their families after their passing.
Cancer affects not only those diagnosed but also their families and loved ones. By opening up about its impact, these club members, community friends, and families gave us all a greater understanding of the challenges they faced and the strength they showed. Their honesty and courage inspired so many people to donate before, during, and after the fundraiser. Without these stories, this event would not have delivered the incredible success we celebrate here.
Dee Fleming, Dave Reid, Aoife Moores, Anna Glover, Siobhan McKeever, Reyna Nixon, Rachel Creane — and the families of Bernetta Potter and Shay Coyle.
Every euro came from you—our club and community: GoFundMe donors, cake bakers and buyers, raffle-goers, sports stars and everyone who took part.
