They say that bookmaking is the second oldest profession in the world, and some would even claim that most bookmakers are descended from those who practise the OLDEST profession in the world!

Former bookmaker, Malachy Skelly, died last week. Malachy had over thirty betting offices around the country, one of which was in Abbeyfeale.

Malachy Skelly’s betting shop, famed in song and story, was situated in the lane behind Tommy Moloney’s butcher’s stall. From the outside, it looked more like a dilapidated dole office. Bookmakers were forbidden from advertising at that time, and all doors and windows had to be kept closed and shuttered for fear that people might see in and be tempted to place a bet.

The interior was equally uninspiring. Dark grey walls and a high counter on which was a large alarm clock loudly ticking down the minutes.

Racing pages from the Irish Press and the Irish Independent were placed strategically in dark corners whick made reading difficult. There was no Cork Examiner or Sporting Life, and the British tabloids were banned as being a tad too explicit for our innocent tastes.

There were no prices advertised; no football coupons, jackpots or Lucky 15 dockets. A sign on the wall warned of a 28-1 limit on all doubles, and bets had to be placed at least ten minutes before the “off”. A penal 20% tax had to be paid on all bets. There was no race commentary, no radio and no television. All bets were settled at starting price. Winnings could not be collected until the following day, when the official result would be confirmed in the newspapers.

And, on top of all that, a large sign just inside the front door proclaimed “No Loitering”. Although why anyone would want to loiter in such dismal surroundings is a mystery.

The clientel of Malachy Skelly’s were a clandestine and secretive bunch. They sidled in, almost unnoticed, conducted their business in whispers, and slipped furtively out again, like shadowy characters from a John Le Carre spy novel. “Any tips?” they would mutter conspiratorially to each other, as if requesting the Third Secret of Fatima. But it was here that many a daring coup was planned and executed

The novice punter would never write out a bet himself, as if he feared that it had to be written in some secret code known only to those initiated into the magic circle of gamblers. Sixpence each way was the most common bet, although seasoned backers might raise it to a shilling if the information was right and the pocket could sustain it.

Malachy Skelly sold his betting chain in the seventies, just as the big multi-nationals began showing an interest. Today, Lal Browne still continues in the old tradition, while Paddy Power and Ladbrokes are the new kids on the block. They have up to the minute prices and form, and you can follow all the action on a myriad of giant screens and be paid immediately your selection crosses the line. You can now loiter to your heart’s contest on comfortably upholstered seats and you will even be offered a complimentary cup of tea or coffey.

As one seasoned punter remarked; “You wouldn’t mind losing a few bob these days!”

ALL IRELAND

Kerry supporters returning from their team’s defeat in the All Ireland football final in Croke Park were subdued as they passed through the town on Sunday night, and there was hardly a Kerry gansey to be seen. However, all agreed that the team had done its best, and many fans were already looking forward to next year.

BALLET;

Ballet Classes for children are now being held in the Glorach Theatre, Convent Street, Abbeyfeale. “Ruby Ballet” is a creative programme specifically designed for children aged 4-12. Any aspiring Margot Fonteyns or Rudolf Nureyevs should contact Lauren on 087-7822801 for further details. Hip Hop dance classes for teenagers are also being taught at the Glorach, as well as adult Pilates classes. Phone Lauren or e-mail her at laurendean@hotmail.com

ROADS;

Cllr Francis Foley welcomes the announcement at the Area Committee Meeting last Friday that works are to start shortly on a scheme to remove surface water along the Killarney Road. This will involve the upgrading of pipes, gullies, drains, etc. from the library out to Pairc Cois Feile. The estimated cost of these works is €700,000.

CLERGY:

Fr Leo McDonnell has been transferred to St John’s Cathedral, Limerick. Fr Leo has been in Abbeyfeale since 1996 and we wish him well in his new appointment. Canon Michael Liston will replace Fr Leo, and we welcome him to the parish.

SOCCER:

Abbeyfeale Utd were beaten 5-2 by Shannonside FC in the first round of the Munster Junior Cup. Paul Doherty and David Roche were the Abbeyfeale scorers.

RUGBY:

Abbeyfeale defeated Muskerry 25-3 in the first round of the Munster Junior Challenge Cup.

GAA:

Fr Casey’s defeated Pallasgreen by 0-15 to 1-10 in the replayed county senior football quarter-final at Bruff on Saturday evening. Pallasgreen led by 1-7 to 0-8 at half time. However, a rousing second half performance saw the Fealesiders come out on top. They now face reigning champions, Ballylanders, in the semi-final.