The IRFU Charitable Trust Vodafone Rugby Ball
The Annual IRFU Charitable Trust Ball was held on Friday 1st March 19 at the Ballsbridge Hotel, Dublin. Commemorating 40 years of the IRFU Charitable Trust, the Trust was delighted to have Vodafone as title sponsor for the fourth time. The very successful charity event was a gathering of over 300 people from the worlds of rugby, entertainment and business. Many prominent figures were in attendance.
The evening was organised by Shane Whelan and his Committee. John Callaghan, Chairman of the Charitable Trust, gave a warm word of welcome followed by a singing grace from the Dublin Welsh Male Voice Choir. A significant amount of money was raised on the night and this will go a long way in supporting the 36 seriously injured rugby players.
On arrival guests were treated to a drink’s reception sponsored by Diageo including Guinness and Tanqueray Gin. There was entertainment by Magician Aidan Murphy and Caricaturist Andrew Goti. A photo booth was available for people to take fun photos to keep as a memento of the evening. Stephen Ferris got the guests in good spirits as he hosted a Heads and Tails game with the audience, the lucky winner was delighted to receive a whiskey hamper.
Alan Shortt our MC spoke with Shane Byrne, Stephen Ferris and James McManus from Earths Edge showing the lighter side of their trek to Kilimanjaro in January in aid of the Trust. As well as promoting “Ireland’s Call to Kilimanjaro” in January 2020. Our special guest for the evening Sean O’Brien, had a chat with Oisin Langan giving all the insights into his world in rugby. Alan Shortt, comedian, had guests thoroughly entertained with his banter with guests throughout the night, and in particular during the highly successful Auction in aid of our seriously injured players.
Other money was raised with a Silent Auction and Raffle. The Auction lots included a weekend away to see Wales play Ireland in Cardiff, flights to USA and Dubai, a trip to the Rugby World Cup in Japan and more.
After dinner the guests hit the dance floor to eighties super group Spring Break. All agreed it was a fantastic event, it was both a memorable and enjoyable evening for a very worthy cause. Thank you once again to all who volunteered and supported the event.
