The Black Doves Club was founded in May 1996.  John Hanrahan was one of eight young men who attended the first meeting, he was elected Hon. Treasurer.
His first bike was a Suzuki DR 125.  John attended rallies all over the country, from May 1996 to December 1996 he was at forty-nine rallies.  The Black Doves had a ‘Rock Night’ in Lismolin on the 8th November, this event had been arranged by John in February.  John was a very talented musician and loved playing the guitar.  He ‘pulled’ with the local tug-o-war team and also did some weight lifting.
John was born in England and came to live in Ireland when he eight years old.  He attended national school in Mohober and then the Presentation Secondary School.  He was an apprentice with Kilkenny Electrical.  He was very dedicated to his work and a great timekeeper.  John would come down to Glengoole to meet us and talk bikes.  He would always leave for home around 10 o’clock.
Two hundred bikers from all over Ireland attended his funeral and gave him a guard of honour – a very moving tribute to John. 
John died on June 15th, we will always miss him and remember him as a true friend.  We offer our sympathy to his Mam and Dad, Joan and Michael.

Finbarr O’ Shea, President
Nicholas O’ Shea
Willie Fitzgerald
John Brennan