St Brigid’s GAA lotto jackpot winner Gary Connaughton receives his cheque in Dooley’s Shop, Athlone. Also included in the photograph, from left, are PJ Martin (St Brigid’s vice-president), Kevin Dooley, Terri Joyce and Alan MacNeice, St Brigid’s chairperson.

Granny’s ticket brings GAA lotto joy to local man Gary

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St Brigid’s GAA lotto jackpot winner Gary Connaughton is pictured with his cheque at Dooley’s Shop. Also pictured, from left, are Mary Dooley, Alan Mac Neice (St Brigid’s chairperson), Terri Joyce and Kevin Dooley.

Published: Thu 22 Oct 2026, 2:50 PM

Last updated: Thu 22 Oct 2026, 2:54 PM

Celebrations were not just confined to St Brigid’s Roscommon SFC success this week, as the club’s weekly lotto was also claimed by Gary Connaughton.

Hailing from Drumraney, Gary won the jackpot prize of €11,800, courtesy of his grandmother, Terri Joyce, who purchased the winning ticket for her grandson in Dooley’s Flowers, Fruit & Vegetable Shop on Magazine Road, Athlone.

Terri bought the ticket in Gary’s name and upon being presented with the his cheque prize, the Balls.ie sports journalist said the money “will be a great help” with his wedding preparations as he gets married in 2027.

The lotto winner quipped that he had already ordered flowers for the ‘big day’ from Dooley’s!