OLD Christians GAA Club on Limerick’s southside officially opened a new state-of-the-art gym facility named in honour of 1973 All-Ireland-winning legend Bernie Hartigan, a lifelong stalwart of the Rathbane club.
The facility was launched as part of a wider effort to rejuvenate and strengthen the club’s presence in the local community.
In attendance at the opening were JP McManus, Cllr Catherine Slattery, and a number of officials representing both Munster and Limerick GAA.
Like many inner-city GAA clubs across Ireland, Old Christians has faced challenges in maintaining playing numbers in recent years.
- External Walls: Up to €8,000 Grant
- Attic: Up to €1,500 Grant
- Cavity Walls: Up to €1,700 Grant
- Internal Dry Lining: Up to €4,500 Grant
Founded as an offshoot of the once-renowned hurling stronghold of Limerick CBS, the club felt the impact of the school’s decline as a major force in hurling.
Speaking after the launch, club secretary Gary Culbert said the new development represents an important step forward for Old Christians but also forms part of a broader long-term vision for the club.
“The new gym represents a major investment in the future of the club and in our members,” Culbert said.
“It’s a top-class facility that will allow our players to train in a professional environment and get the very best out of themselves both on and off the pitch.
“But it’s not just for players. We want it to be something the wider community can be aware of and make use of. Facilities like this help us build membership and strengthen the connection between the club and the area we serve.”
The gym, known as Bernie’s Gym, is named in honour of Bernie Hartigan, whose contribution to both Old Christians and Limerick GAA spans decades.
“Bernie is a true legend of the club,” Culbert said. “He played a huge role in Limerick’s All-Ireland success in 1973 and has given incredible service to Old Christians over the years.”
“He’s still involved with the club today and continues to be an inspiration for everyone here. Naming the gym after him felt like a fitting way to recognise everything he has done for the club and for Limerick hurling.”