Jerry McClafferty making a presentation to Nonnie Gallagher and Pól Ó Rabhartaigh making a presentation to Michael James Gallagher. Picture: Tommy Curran
At a function in the Gaoth Dobhair Clubhouse, Magheragallon on Sunday two local stalwart golfers, Michael James Gallagher, Magheraclogher, Bunbeg and Nonnie Gallagher, Derrybeg were honoured for their long and distinguished membership of the club. A lovely plaque was presented to both of them as well as a Honorary Life Membership of the club. Flowers were presented to Nonnie’s wife, Sarah and Michael James’ wife, Molly.
The two former businessmen now aged in their nineties, still play golf on the Magheragallon golf links. For many years Michael James operated a highly successful pharmacy at Bunbeg while Nonnie who is originally from Dungloe, a talented tailor, established in association with his wife, Sarah the former highly successful company, Cladyknit Ltd., at Derrybeg.
Michael James Gallagher started to play golf in Buncrana in 1948 when he worked there. He along with Nonnie Gallagher started to play golf on the Magheragallon Golf Links in 1957. Nonnie served as Captain of the Gaoth Dobhair Golf Club in 1966 and again in 1983. He was President of the Club in 1986 and 1987. Michael James served as Captain of the club in 1965, while he was President in 1997 and 1998. Both men were also prominent Gaelic footballers, with Nonnie playing his early football with the Dungloe team and later Gaoth Dobhair after moving there on his marriage to Sarah Friel. Michael James’ football career spanned many years as player with the Gaoth Dobhair team and had also played at county level for some years.
Peadar Ó Gallchóir of the Gaoth Dobhair Golf Club spoke and he paid glowing tribute to both Nonnie and Michael James. He said he was browsing though the club’s minutes and he noted that they paid the sum of £1 and ten shillings yearly membership many moons ago.
He wished them well for the future and he added that long may they continue to play golf in Magheragallon.
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