PICTURES: Old Christians GAA Club launch fundraising dog night

Old Christians GAA officially launched their upcoming Dog Night fundraiser at the Spotted Dog last Friday evening, with the event set to take place at Limerick Greyhound Stadium on November 26.

The fundraiser will mark the 35th anniversary of the club’s 1991 county intermediate title while also raising vital funds to support the club’s future and sustain its role at the heart of the south inner city.

The night will raise money for Old Christians’ facility development plans, as well as supporting their underage structures and adult teams. Based in Rathbane, the club serves communities across the south inner city and hopes the funds raised will help secure its future as they look towards the next chapter of its history.

Founded in 1962, Christians have served the south inner city for 64 years. Established as an offshoot of the once-famous Limerick CBS, the club has faced many of the same challenges as the school, with the decline of its hurling tradition and the changing face of the inner city presenting difficulties over the decades.

Last year, Christians were among a number of clubs across the country to receive a refresher pack from the Hurling Development Committee, giving children in the area an opportunity to play the game without the expense that might otherwise prove a significant barrier to participation.

At a time when inner-city clubs across the country are struggling to maintain numbers and resources, Christians will be hoping the proceeds from their Dog Night can help them continue to act as a central pillar of their community.

As part of the fundraiser, Christians are offering sponsorship for the night at €200 per page. The club hopes to raise sufficient funds to apply for a capital sports grant, which could subsequently help finance improvements to its grounds and facilities in what would be a major boost for Gaelic games in the city.