PHOTOS: BOYLE Sports holds staff event in north Louth

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Carlingford became the centre of attention last week as a former Premier League footballer joined BOYLE Sports colleagues from across the globe for two unforgettable days of celebration. On Wednesday 16 July, nearly 300 BOYLE Sports employees descended on the picturesque village of Carlingford for an action-packed afternoon of team-building activities and corporate celebration.

With the stunning Cooley Peninsula as the backdrop, participants enjoyed everything from archery and laser combat to the ever-popular Crystal Maze challenge at the Carlingford Adventure Centre. Adding to the fun, the Escape Rooms above Wildwood Café offered thrilling challenges such as their famous escape room puzzles, The Cube experience, and lively scavenger hunts through the village.

Meanwhile, the historic Ghan House, a long-time favourite for BOYLE Sports team events, hosted an afternoon of baking, creating salads, and desserts—complete with plenty of laughter and healthy competition. Transport for the day was provided by Sevens Taxis, who supplied double-decker buses to shuttle guests to each activity. The entire experience was documented in stunning photography and drone footage by Gregory Murphy of Murphy Brothers in Monaghan, ensuring every moment was captured. Continued below photo

The celebrations continued on Thursday 17 July, with a corporate showcase highlighting BOYLE Sports’ ambitious plans for the future.

CEO Vlad Kaltenieks opened the day by inviting senior leaders to share insights into the company’s strategy for 2025 and beyond. Highlights included the launch of refreshed BOYLE Sports branding, featuring a new modernised logo, and the unveiling of a new sponsorship deal with West Ham United, which will see the name of the Dundalk-based firm adorn the shirts of the Premier League giants next season.

The event was hosted by Gráinne McElwain and featured a special appearance from former West Ham footballer Marlon Harewood, adding an extra spark to the day. Guests were then treated to a vibrant festival-style party set in the stunning grounds of Bellurgan House. Local food producers stole the show with mouthwatering offerings from A91 Street Food, Firebox Pizza, and Blasta Monaghan, complemented by artisanal ice creams and sorbets from Muchgrange Farm and delicate macarons from Merci Beaucoup.

A massive stretch tent, assembled by Bild Production, accommodated up the guests, while Conor Moran managed state-of-the-art sound and screens. Games Hire Dublin provided interactive outdoor games, and the Glitter Girls from Dundalk added a touch of festival glam.

Derek, Jennifer, and the crew from the legendary Lily Finnegan’s pub in Cooley rolled up with their mobile bar and kept the good vibes (and pints!) flowing. The Guinness was pouring smooth, and for their friends from Serbia and all across Europe — BOYLE Sports says it was love at first sip! The entertainment lineup was equally impressive, with The Enemies Band keeping the crowd dancing late into the night and renowned mind reader Shane Black mingling with guests for jaw-dropping moments of magic. 

Once again, Sevens Taxis handled transport seamlessly, while local hotels—including Ballymascanlon, Fairways, and Gateway—were fully booked to accommodate colleagues travelling from across Europe, the UK, and from as far afield as Serbia. The two-day event not only strengthened bonds within the BOYLE Sports team but also showcased the best of what Louth has to offer, firmly putting the region on the map for large-scale corporate events.