Garda Youth Awards for local heroes

Clare Garda Youth awards were presented to amazing and deserving young people/youth groups in the Woodstock Hotel in Ennis recently and recipients included two local young men, Aaron Hunt from Boher and Daniel Spaight from Bridgetown, both of whom were honoured in the Individual Award category. Special guest speaker at the event was one of Ireland’s greatest sporting legends, former Munster and Ireland rugby player Keith Earls. Delivering his address, Mr Earls commended the courage, resilience and determination of the winners, whom he stated will undoubtedly continue to thrive and achieve great things in their lives.

Aaron was nominated for all his work in organising the annual Patrick McKeogh Memorial Tractor Run, which raises much needed funds for various charities in our community. Over the past three years, the following charities have benefited from Aaron’s Tractor Run: Embrace Farm Charity (2021, €5,000); Milford Care Centre (2022, €4,300), Irish Heart Foundation (2022, €4,300); Irish Cancer Society (2023, €12,300).

Daniel was nominated for sharing his experience with cancer in 2022, an illness he bore bravely and proudly. He spoke openly to his peers about his diagnosis and treatment in order to educate others on the signs and symptoms of the disease.

The Clare Garda Youth Awards provide a platform to acknowledge some of our most inspirational young leaders, many of whom have triumphed in the face of personal adversity. These heroic young people are making a real difference in their communities, and it is important that their contribution is celebrated to serve as an inspiration for others to follow.