Shannon Gaels held their first annual Field Day at Sunnyside Gardens, Queens on October 17, and close to 1,000 people braved the cold air to come out and enjoy a fun-filled family day, packed with Gaelic Games, Irish cuisine, music and dance.

Mayor Bloomberg, as promised, arrived and made his way to the stage through a guard of honor made up of over 150 Shannon Gaels footballers, pausing frequently to talk with the young Gaels. 

A group of young musicians, also Shannon Gaels footballers, played the Irish and American National Anthems, followed by a group multi-talented young footballers who gave a wonderful display of Irish Dancing. 

Mayor Bloomberg was introduced to the huge crowd by Ciaran Staunton.   The mayor expressed his delight at being invited to such a wonderful event.

Mayor Bloomberg then threw in the ball for the Under 12 Cailean O'Reilly Cup game.  Originally only an 8 minute appearance was to take place, but Mayor Bloomberg's visit lasted over half and hour as he absorbed the skill, pace and energetic displays of our young Gaels.

He received a very warm welcome from all in attendance, and it was obvious that he, like everyone else, thoroughly enjoyed a wonderful field day.