CONGRATULATIONS to Colin Doyle, who was among 50 recent recipients of Gaisce gold awards. 2025 was the 40th anniversary of this President’s Award initiative and the awards were presented by its patron Catherine Connolly, at the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham.

For his part, Colin enrolled in online Equine Studies (continuing from his ISH Teagasc Young Breeders’ Programme years, which resulted in a team gold medal at the 2022 WBFSH world championships).

His involvement with Castledaly GAA Club, close to his Clonmore home, completing a 115km section of the Camino de Santiago and a Citizen Education project, all counted towards his award, plus his current Moate Show secretarial duties.

“This role allows me to work with so many people, who take pride in the heritage and tradition that encompasses the running of an agricultural show, as we negotiate constant changes in event management.

“Ultimately, it makes you appreciate and respect the goodness that so many people show and give voluntarily - all because it is for the benefit of others. I was delighted to bring my parents, Eugene and Nuala, to be part of such a special ceremony,” added the popular science schoolteacher.