Family fun at Kildare field day and tractor run

The community of Suncroft came together to raise funds for their local community centre and to have a bit of craic in the process
Family fun at Kildare field day and tractor run

Fionn, Thomas and Faya Robotham

THE VILLAGE of Suncroft came alive on Sunday, May 11, as the community gathered for a joyful day of traditional fun at the Suncroft field day and tractor run.

Organised in partnership with the Suncroft Community Centre, the event proved a resounding success, drawing a fantastic turnout from locals; young and old.

Suncroft Field Day and Tractor Run at There Community Centre Nadine Doran, Harper Hanlon, Helen Moly Neaux and Christine Dowling Photos: Jimmy Fullam
Suncroft Field Day and Tractor Run at There Community Centre Nadine Doran, Harper Hanlon, Helen Moly Neaux and Christine Dowling Photos: Jimmy Fullam

Speaking to the Kildare Nationalist, Rose Fennelly from the Young At Heart group in Suncroft, shared the highlights of the day.

“The Tractor Run is something we usually hold twice a year, in May and December,” she explained. “But this year, we decided to bring back the field day as well — something we hadn’t done in a long time. It was a great success altogether!” 

Some of the large attendance
Some of the large attendance

The event had all the charm of a classic sports day, featuring crowd favourites like the three-legged race, egg-and-spoon race, and tug of war.

Harry Eoigan, Aoibheann and Cameran Champ Sack Race
Harry Eoigan, Aoibheann and Cameran Champ Sack Race

“It was lovely,” she said. “There were so many kids who had never experienced a field day like this before. They were amazed.” 

Stacey Kiely, Pippa Burke, Emma Walsh, Macey Sayers and Martha Keane
Stacey Kiely, Pippa Burke, Emma Walsh, Macey Sayers and Martha Keane

Alongside the traditional games, there were plenty of other attractions to keep families entertained, including a bouncing castle, an ice cream van, and a burger stall. A local man even gave children a spin around the field on the back of his tractor!

Pat Reid, Seamus McLoughlin, Nicky Mullally, James Reid, Dave Champ, Tom Connolly and Ed Nolan
Pat Reid, Seamus McLoughlin, Nicky Mullally, James Reid, Dave Champ, Tom Connolly and Ed Nolan

There was music at the event provided by Owen Fagan who had “the kids up singing all day,” with help from Patsy and Eddie as well.

The event was more than just a fun day out — it was a vital fundraiser for the Suncroft Community Centre.

“All the money raised goes towards paying the electricity, maintenance, and running costs of the hall,” Rose explained.

Amy, Vincent and Shirley James, three generations of the family
Amy, Vincent and Shirley James, three generations of the family

She also gave a special thanks to the local Young At Heart group, who provided teas, sandwiches, and help throughout the day.

“Without them, we’d have been lost,” she said. “They did a fantastic job.” 

The Young at Heart Group
The Young at Heart Group

With such a positive reaction, the return of the Suncroft Field Day may well become a regular feature on the community calendar once again.

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