Ettie Kilbride recalls the first All-Ireland Scór crown for Carnew Emmets

In 2000, aka, Y2K, the infamous ‘millennium bug’ was expected to cause global chaos resulting from online fear mongering. Instead, a slightly less catastrophic drama unfolded in Newtownmountkennedy at Wicklow’s County Scór Sinsear competition.

“The Jackass Butcher” conjured by a group of Tops of the Parish enthusiasts had spectators in stitches.

Set in a butcher’s shop, where humans were seen as animals, the animals were in control. It was a fascinating concept that explored power dynamics and reversed the roles we typically associate with humans and animals.

The plot delved into themes of dominance, survival and the consequences of our actions towards other beings. It was a unique perspective with the usual trademark Carnew comedic twist.

The act consisting of Tom Culkin, John O’Hara, Thomas D’Arcy, James Doran, John O’Sullivan, Michael Skelton, Mick Sinnott and Fergus Kinsella was catapulted into the All-Ireland final in the Royal Ulster Hall, Belfast with the assistance of prop man, Din Doran and his sister, story-writing genius Ettie Kilbride.

Back then, there was no stage for competitors. Instead, they performed in the middle of the floor with their audience surrounding them 360. The clever use of stage props added a layer of visual appeal and creativity.

Sports pundit, Pat Spillane, who had recently taken aim at Ulster football was introduced as a skeleton prop which was a crowd pleaser, especially to the Ulster contingent.

It was Tipperary who were favourites for Novelty Glory, but it was Carnew Emmets who were announced as victors.

A monumental win that paved the way for Scór in Carnew for years to come.