Ballincollig Rugby Club are going to the dogs!

A MAJOR fundraiser will take place this Friday as Ballincollig Rugby Club continues its efforts to drum up almost €1 million to fund major development plans.

Announced earlier this summer to mark its 40th anniversary, the club is planning to improve existing playing facilities, solve flooding and drainage issues and install floodlighting.

Officials have targeted some €945,000 to fund its plans, which also includes the construction of an all-weather pitch and running track and upgrading the car park.

This Friday, September 7, the club will host a fun night at the Curraheen Park Greyhound Stadium, including a post-to-post race and a fancy dress event.

As part of a raffle on the night, one lucky attendee will have the chance to win two tickets to the Ireland game against the All Blacks on November 17.

All funds raised on the night will go toward the club’s fundraising efforts.

Speaking about the fundraiser, Ballincollig Rugby Club president, Jim Nyhan said: “We are delighted to be hosting our first fundraiser event this Friday in order to raise funds for our extensive development plans. It’s exciting to see the plans in place towards improving and adding to our existing facilities to ensure the continued success of our club.

“We would like to thank everyone who has supported us so far and we are looking forward to meeting everyone on Friday night for a very enjoyable evening.

“As always, huge thanks to our club sponsor Quish’s SuperValu in Ballincollig for their continued backing of Ballincollig Rugby Club.”

Tickets for the night are €10 and include admission and a race card. Tickets can be purchased from the Ballincollig Rugby Club bar and are also available to purchase online at ballincolligrfc.ie.

Gates open at 6.30pm with the first race kicking off at 7pm. A complimentary shuttle bus will run from Ballincollig Rugby Club to Curraheen Park Greyhound Stadium between 6pm and 7pm on the night and return later that evening.

If you are unable to attend on the night, and still wish to support the event, you can sponsor a dog for €20. For further information see http://www.ballincolligrfc.ie.