Athlone

Well wouldn’t you know it, it’s the middle of Ireland and it’s raining!

It was the early hours of the morning when we eventually arrived at our accommodation, four very luxurious (not) rooms over one of the local bars in the middle of Athlone, right opposite the local nick! The barman was waiting for us and as we struggled up the stairs with our suitcases he gladly went and pulled 6 pints of Guinness. As we sat there drinking and chatting we casually asked him when the bar closed, 11:30 came the reply. As it was now arount 2.30 we were rather shocked and asked if that wasn’t a problem considering the very close proximity of the Garda HQ. “To be sure no, till about half an hour ago they were all in here”!

We were up early on Friday morning to sample what we expected to be a scrumptious ‘full Irish’, well it was full, must admit I’m rather glad I didn’t have Sue’s vegetarian option though!

After a leisurely day wondering around the town we were invited to a drinks reception with the mayor and lots of other dignitaries, so obviously we had to be on our very best behaviour, don’t laugh we can behave when we have to.

Saturday of course was rather busy, after all there was a competition on. We were pleased when we came away with the silver medal and we will be back next year in Cork. SueB was please that her son Sam and his girlfriend were able to come and join us for dinner on Saturday night, and then stay on to watch us perform in the champions show.

Click here if you would like to see the rest of my photos of the weekend.