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€15,000 raised in memory of talented Wexford hurler at New Ross golf event

The Anthony Rochford Memorial Claret Jug was presented to the winning team of Andrew Ryan, Davy Doran, John Hartley and Richie Kenneally (all from New Ross) by Anthony’s parents Sean and Ann Rochford.

The late Anthony Rochford.

Willie Whity and Willie Kelly with John Rochford.

thumbnail: The Anthony Rochford Memorial Claret Jug was presented to the winning team of Andrew Ryan, Davy Doran, John Hartley and Richie Kenneally (all from New Ross) by Anthony’s parents Sean and Ann Rochford.
thumbnail: The late Anthony Rochford.
thumbnail: Willie Whity and Willie Kelly with John Rochford.
David LoobyNew Ross Standard

Just over 200 golfers battled it out for the inaugural Anthony Rochford Memorial Trophy at New Ross Golf Club recently, making it a poignant yet memorable day for family, friends, colleagues and participants.

Anthony, a native of Parkfield New Ross, was a much-loved hurler with Geraldine O ’Hanrahan’s and Wexford, as well as being an accomplished low handicap golfer.

He passed away at a young age in October of 2022.

Anthony’s former colleagues with Sydney Shamrocks Hurling Club – for whom he played in between the posts back in 2000 – helped to organise the golf classic along with his brother John, parents Sean, Anne and sisters Anne Marie and Brid, as well as wife Catherine.

“The response to the Classic was unbelievable and it was a great source of comfort for the family that so many people wanted to honour Anthony’s memory and support two good causes,” explained John Rochford.

An incredible amount of €15,000 was raised on the day, with the bulk of the proceeds going to Pieta House which assists people with suicidal ideation, and some funds also allocated to the Shamrocks Club in Sydney.

“We would like to thank New Ross Golf Club for being such exceptional hosts, all those who played on the day or put in teams, all those who sponsored tee-boxes and prizes and to Sinnott’s Centra for providing the goodie bags for all the golfers. People were extremely generous and it’s great to see such a fantastic amount going to Pieta,” said John.

On a very emotional night, the Anthony Rochford Memorial Claret Jug was presented to the winning team of Andrew Ryan, Davy Doran, John Hartley and Richie Kenneally (all from New Ross) by Anthony’s parents Sean and Ann.

The winners in the Champagne Scramble format each received a replica of the trophy and a great first prize of a round of golf in Waterville, Co Kerry.

In second place were Willie Whitty, Jimmy Ryan, James Wallace and Willie Kelly; while Junior Cashin, Neil Cashin, Paul Cashin and John Somers finished third. The Ladies’ Prize was won by Lillian O’Hanlon, Margaret Rossiter, Rita Furlong and Margaret Kavanagh.

“The winners were friends of Anthony’s and were delighted to emerge victorious; they have already pledged to defend the trophy next year when the second running of the event will take place.”