Locals triumph in Kiwi competition

Locals triumph in Kiwi competition

24 March 2021

TWO local camogie players have been celebrating success in New Zealand. 

Dearbhla Arkins, from Castlewellan, and Amy Doyle, from Drumaroad, were victorious in New Zealand’s senior camogie championship. 

The duo were part of the Canterbury side, who were eventually crowned champions after defeating Auckland in the final in Christchurch. 

The championship was the biggest GAA tournament in the world at that time due to the pandemic and hosted 27 teams and over 300 players from across New Zealand. 

The pandemic resulted in last year’s competition in Auckland to be cancelled, so for the championship to be given the go-ahead was a big boost to the locals, who have a strong affiliation with Irish sports.

Amy (25) and Dearbhla (27) joined Canterbury at the tail end of the season, just in time for the championship. 

Dearbhla’s father, Vincent, who is vice-chairman of St John’s GAC, congratulated both women on their trophy win. 

“The ladies did brilliantly winning the cup, and it’s good to see them representing their team so well,” he said.

“I am very proud of Dearbhla. She has always been very involved with St John’s, competing in football since primary school and recently playing for the senior ladies’ football team. 

“She has taken part in numerous fundraisers such as the club’s Strictly Come 

Dancing and other charity events. She has been a great asset and club representative. 

“It’s great to see her carry her love for the GAA across to the other side of the world”. 

Dearbhla has spent the last two years in New Zealand and plans to stay for at least another year — in the hope of another trophy triumph.