January 17th, 2016 | Uncategorized
With college still out of session, the wonderful Sarah Deegan took Kelsey, our friend Niamh, and myself to Kilkee, a small coastal town in the County of Clare, about an hour away from UL. “Limerick on wheels” is what Sarah likes to refer to the town as. The explanation for such a creative name is that Kilkee is the destination where majority of Limerick travels to spend their summer holidays.
The fact that it was the middle of January definitely did not make it feel like summer while we were there. The wind nearly blew us away while we were visiting! However, it was very easy to envision how great of a place Kilkee would be in the summer. The views were absolutely amazing. From the seaside cliffs, the Pollack Holes used for outdoor swimming, the great beach area, to all the cute little restaurants and pubs scattered throughout the town; it was very easy to see how this town would be packed in the summer months.
Not only did we get to explore Kilkee, but we also got to hear about Sarah’s time and memories in Kilkee. It made it that much more special to explore different parts of the town when they’re relatable to people I know. I loved hearing Sarah talk about her childhood memories as well as her favorite spots in the area when she comes down for the summer. Hearing recalled events like that made the place come to life. I definitely want to make a trip back to Kilkee when it gets a little warmer to experience the atmosphere!
Not only were there significant spots for people that I know, but also for the Hollywood star, Richard Harris. For those who don’t know who he was, Richard Harris was Dumbledore in the Harry Potter movies! Prior to this adventure, I had no idea that Richard Harris had such a background in Ireland.
After our morning in Kilkee, we traveled a bit further out to visit the Loop Head lighthouse. The significance of this lighthouse was the feeling it gave me when we got to the edge of the land and looked outward onto the sea. I had never felt so secluded in my life. I really felt like I was at the edge of the world looking out onto the Atlantic. In fact, we passed a pub with a sign that said “last pub until New York City…” that was a great indication as to how far on the outskirts of Ireland we were.
It was another great day of exploring, with even better people. Every day that I am in Ireland, is another day to try something new. It reminds me of the amazing opportunity I was given, and how I want to make the very most of it.
Victory Scholar: Sarah Benedetti
Present University: University of Limerick
US League: NEC
Club/Community Partner: UL Huskies
Alma Mater: St. Francis College
Sponsored by: Teamwear Ireland
