By Tara McCormack
THERE was Donegal delight at the All Ireland Fleadh in Wexford, as St Catherine’s Band from Killybegs claimed their first-ever All Ireland title.
This victory marked the first time in 27 years that a Donegal band triumphed in the senior accordion section, making it the first win for a Donegal band in this category since Fanad band’s success in 1997.
This momentous win follows the band’s successful appearance on St Patrick’s Day in New York City.
The band, consisting of members ranging in age from 10 to their 40s, has worked hard to reach this point.
Sharon Anderson, the band’s choreographer and drill instructor, told the Donegal News: “It’s been an exceptional year with an exceptional band. None of this is possible without the support of our families, community, and committee, especially our talented and dedicated band members. They did us all proud. It’s been hard work but great craic. A fantastic group of people.”
For St. Catherine’s band, the victory was emotional.
“Everybody is over the moon. Everybody was crying when they announced our results,” she shared.
“It was the best feeling. We are on Cloud 9, with just happiness and relief.”
The journey to this title has been a long one.
The band previously competed in the junior section in 2009, 15 years ago, and faced the same band they defeated this year.
The memory of that past competition added extra determination to their efforts this time around.
Their dedication was evident as they hit the road at 5 a.m. on Sunday morning for Wexford, showing their commitment to maintaining their momentum throughout what has already been a sensational year.
“This has been an amazing year, and as some of the members said to me, you had a vision and a dream that this was the year. And I just pushed for it,” Sharon added.
The band’s participation in significant events this year, including the biggest Halloween Parade in Europe in Derry and the largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York, showcased their commitment to excellence.
“Everything was the biggest and the best this year,” Sharon said.
The band’s dedication to their craft, evident in their rigorous practices and the refinement of their music, paid off in the end.
“There was a lot of extra practices put in and even stripping down music and giving people different parts that were crammed last minute,” Sharon shared, reflecting on the effort behind the scenes.
Upon their return to Killybegs on Monday evening, the band was met with overwhelming support from their community.
Their victory parade was a moment of celebration not just for the band, but for the entire town.
“All the old past committees and old members were all there. You are doing it for everybody, really, not just yourself.”
St Catherine’s band had the honour of showcasing their winning routine in the diamond at the centre of town, a fitting celebration of their hard-earned victory.
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