'82 at Knock, then Carton for their 30th

A small group congregated at the College in the late afternoon where they were warmly welcomed by the College President Fr Peter Slevin and Union Administrator Ms Rita Coyle. The informal proceedings included a nostalgic lap of the crease for “auld times’ sake”, a guided tour of the College and review of College memorabilia. The afternoon concluded with a convivial afternoon tea in the Community dining room (previously unseen by the majority of the former pupils) where many fond memories of our days at “Knock” were shared. Meanwhile a “sporty” group enjoyed a round of golf at Carton House where the formal celebrations were held.

Classmates who gathered from all corners of Ireland, the UK and North America were joined by their guests Fr Peter Slevin,  Fr Kieran Magovern and Mr Nick Cummins. The formal reception, group photograph and dinner were followed by entertaining after dinner speeches from Eoghan Ryan and Marc McCloskey and hours of reminiscence, laughter and song extending well into the small hours. A minority even partied until breakfast!

It was great to witness the camaraderie after all those years apart. The stamina and joie de vivre have not dwindled even though hairlines have receded and waistlines expanded in the intervening years.

We all went our separate ways after breakfast the following morning having rekindled old friendships. The unanimous agreement was that the evening was an outstanding success. Special thanks to Robert Doyle for organising such a memorable event. Roll on the 35th celebrations!

KG