The Annual Clongowes Lunch was held on the 10th of November in the Conrad Hotel in Dublin.

It was extremely well attended with over 180 OC’s and their guests sitting down to Lunch. MC for the Lunch was President Elect, Shane Dowling (’83). As the first big OC gathering of President Peter O'Meara's (OC'88) term. It was wonderful to see such support including two tables taken by the school led by the Headmaster, Mr. Chris Lumb.

After introductions by the MC, the Union President  addressed the room, welcoming all and giving a Union update. Following an excellent lunch, RTE's rugby commentator Hugh Cahill expertly facilitated an engaging discussion with our very special guest, Fran Cotton.

Fran played for England 31 times and was a Lion on three occasions in 1974, 1977 and 1981. He is very well remembered as a member of the England team that came to Dublin in 1973 during the height of the troubles.

He also managed the famous 1997 Lions tour to South Africa. He has had a successful  business career with his clothing brand Cotton Traders which he set up with his friend and fellow Rugby International Steve Smith. The conversation was extremely interesting with views on Irish Club, Provincial and International rugby as well as views of the recent World Cup and the future of the game.

A question and answers session was open to the floor after which Fran was presented with a small token of the Union's appreciation by The President Peter O'Meara who thanked him for crossing the water especially to attend the Lunch and wished him every success for the future.

Photos courtesy of Jim Stitt