The Kinsale & District Lions Club is celebrating a strong and successful period marked by international recognition, impactful community service, and a vibrant programme of events that continue to make a meaningful difference locally. Earlier this year the club has recently been awarded the prestigious Club Excellence Award by Lions Clubs International — an international recognition presented to clubs that demonstrate the highest standards in service, leadership, membership growth, and organisational strength.
As part of Lions Clubs Ireland, this achievement places the Kinsale club among top-performing Lions clubs both nationally and globally, reflecting the collective commitment and dedication of its members. At the heart of the club’s success is the spirit of Lionism — a commitment to community, kindness, and practical service. Members of the Kinsale & District Lions Club continue to embody these values through their work, supporting individuals and families across the community with dignity, compassion, and discretion.
A defining strength of the club is its culture of teamwork, mutual respect, and shared purpose, where each member contributes in their own way to create a strong and effective organisation.
A key highlight of the year ahead is the Fort 2 Fort Charity Cycle 2026, taking place on Saturday, 13 June 2026. This major Cork event will bring cyclists through Kinsale for the first time, with routes starting at Camden Fort Meagher and featuring the iconic Charles Fort.
With 60km, 90km, and 120km route options, the event is designed to cater for all levels — from leisure cyclists to experienced riders.
The cycle is coordinated by Lions Clubs across Cork, including Kinsale, Carrigaline, Bishopstown and Cork, demonstrating the power of collaboration and community working together.
All proceeds will support the vital work of Cork ARC Cancer Support House.
Registration is already well underway, and early sign-up is strongly encouraged due to high demand.
The club’s annual Golf Classic continues to be a cornerstone of its fundraising efforts and a standout success within the community calendar.
Year on year, the event attracts strong support from local businesses, participants, and sponsors, reflecting both the strength of the club’s network and the goodwill within the community.
The success of the Golf Classic plays a vital role in enabling the club to provide practical and timely assistance where it is most needed.
During the 2024–2026 term under President Cormac Fitzgerald, the club has continued to strengthen its foundations, with growing membership, sound financial management, and a clear focus on impactful service delivery. He finishes his term this summer and will remain actively involved helping where needed and part of the executive committee.
Much of the club’s work is carried out quietly, often behind the scenes, reflecting a core principle of Lionism — helping others with dignity, without expectation, and with genuine care thanks to the officers, committees and hard-working dedicated members all aligned for a common purpose.
With over three decades of service, the Kinsale & District Lions Club remains a trusted and valued part of the local community, delivering meaningful support and bringing people together through shared purpose.
As the club looks to the future, it does so with confidence — supported by strong membership, a positive culture, and a continued commitment to community, kindness, and service.
Through events such as the Fort 2 Fort Charity Cycle and the Golf Classic, the Kinsale & District Lions Club continues to demonstrate what can be achieved when people come together to make a difference.
For more details please visit : https://kinsalelionsonline.com/
Photo: John Allen
