It was an emotional time for many past and present members of the New Ross Workman’s Club, along with their family members as 15-year-old, Patrick Murphy, claimed the title of the inaugural Jim Howlett Memorial Cup.

The tournament began in September 2025, in honour of the club’s former member who dedicated his life to the club, Jim Howlett, who sadly passed away on February 4, 2025.

The competition came to its conclusion only recently as it was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances, and doing battle in the final was the club’s youngest member, Patrick Murphy, against the club’s longest serving active member, Tony Bennett.

Fifteen-year-old Murphy took the competition by storm and claimed the champion title, as Mr Bennett, acknowledged in his position as chairperson, how “delighted” the committee are “to see a young person coming up the ranks”.

“There was huge interest in the tournament, and a lot of that had to do with who Jim was and those who knew him over the years,” said Mr Bennett.

“Jim gave over 60 years of his life to the club, so it was nice to mark it and for the club to recognise the service he gave. It was also nice to have his family here to present the cup to us ahead of the tournament,” he added.

The late Mr Howlett was held in high regard by all members of the club, as he had various positions over the years, but his longest serving role was treasurer, which he committed to for over 50 years. 

Previously speaking about the tournament in honour of her late brother, Ann St Ledger said: “It’s really lovely. It’s very thoughtful, and it’s great to keep his name alive in the club.”

“Jim would have been delighted to know that he’s not forgotten about, especially by the club. Jim deserves to have his name mentioned in there as often as possible for all the years that he’s done,” she continued.

“It’s nice to remember him that way. We all had a lovely night, and it was a little bit emotional, but lovely at the same time,” Ann added.

As the winner of the tournament, Patrick’s name will now be inscribed on the base of the cup – a tradition Mr Bennett said will continue throughout the years.

“Patrick produced a brilliant, self-assured performance with some beautiful long pots and safety play. It was a hugely entertaining match too. It’s really fantastic that such a young person from the town won, for him and the club, because it encourages more younger people to join,” Mr Bennett said.

“There’s so much for them to do, but socially, they’re taken under the wings of the senior members and shown the ropes. Younger members must be chaperoned by a parent or guardian, but it’s a great way to get them involved in what we have going on, and it’s great to see the next generation coming through,” Mr Bennett concluded.