Cork rugby star O'Mahony to guest at ARC fundraising dinner

Munster and Ireland rugby star Peter O’Mahony will be the special guest at the Cork ARC Cancer Support House gala fundraising dinner, at the Maryborough Hotel & Spa on September 26.

Cork ARC Cancer Support House is a charity that provides support services to people whose lives have been affected by cancer and those who care for them.

The black tie event will welcome 260 guests for an evening of dining, entertainment, and fundraising, in support of the work of Cork ARC.

During his playing career, Mr O’Mahony earned more than 100 caps for Ireland, winning multiple Six Nations titles and captaining the British & Irish Lions on their 2017 tour. He also is a United Rugby Championship winner with Munster most recently as captain in 2023.

On the night, he will join RTÉ sports presenter and Ballinhassig native Jacqui Hurley to share stories from his incredible career, from the highs of international triumphs and the lessons which he has learned along the way.

Proceeds from the night will go directly towards the development of children’s services, with a particular focus on expanding art therapy programmes.

Art therapy is a powerful, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that uses creative expression to help children and families affected by cancer explore, understand, and process their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

By investing in these services, Cork ARC aims to provide hope, healing, and resilience for younger service users who are navigating the challenges of cancer in their lives.

Cork ARC chief executive Stephen Teap said he is delighted to have such a highly regarded Cork and Irish sports personality attending the gala dinner.

“We are thrilled to welcome Peter O’Mahony as our special guest and to host such an important evening in aid of children’s services at Cork ARC.

“The event is proudly sponsored by Floortech, with associate sponsors O’Flynn Group and Induchem Group.

“Their generous support ensures that every euro raised on the night will make a direct and lasting impact for children and families who rely on Cork ARC’s services,” said Mr Teap.

“Art therapy has the power to give young people a voice when words may fail them and with the support of our sponsors and guests we can continue to grow this life changing service.”

A fundraising auction will take place on the night, with items on offer including tickets to the Queen Anne enclosure at Royal Ascot, with bespoke millinery by Celestine McCoy and a private tour of Gordon Elliott’s world-renowned Cullentra Stud.

Other items in the auction will include Premier League Manchester United tickets, and signed Peter O’Mahony Ireland and Munster memorabilia.