M.J. Quill Golf Tournament
Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025
Location: Sycamore Country Club, 38 Tompkins Road, Ravena, NY 12143

Event Details

Occasion:

  • 30th Annual M.J. Quill Golf Tournament
  • 19th Annual John McGrath Open

This annual event celebrates both the love of golf and the legacy of John McGrath, who has been honored by the tournament since 2007.

How to Participate

For entry information, please call Terry Patterson at (518) 634-7855.

For additional details, you can also reach out to:

  • Ken Dudley: (518) 577-1441
  • Event Chairman: Kieran McGrath

More details about the event are coming soon.

The Legacy of John McGrath

About John McGrath:
John Joseph McGrath, affectionately known as Jack, was born in Lissavilla, Elphin, County Roscommon, Ireland, and immigrated to New York City in 1949. Shortly after, he joined the U.S. Army National Guard, serving in the iconic “Fighting Sixty-Ninth,” the 69th NY Infantry Regiment, famed for leading the Saint Patrick’s Day parade each year. This legacy continued with pride as two of his grandsons also served in the U.S. Army.

Career and Community Involvement:
In the 1950s, John began a dedicated career driving for New York City’s transit system, working first with 5th Avenue Coach and later with the Manhattan and Bronx Surface Transit Operating Authority (MaBSTOA). He was a proud union member with the Transport Workers Union. In 1958, he married Elizabeth, with whom he had two sons, Kiernan and Declan. The family resided in Flushing, NY, attending Saint Kevin’s church.

Irish Cultural Contributions:
After retirement, John and Elizabeth split their time between Florida and the Northern Catskills, where they engaged deeply with the Irish community, particularly at the Michael J. Quill Cultural & Sports Centre. John was a lifetime board member, raising funds for memorials and assisting with numerous initiatives to preserve Irish heritage in the Catskills.

Final Years:
John and Elizabeth relocated to Sherman, CT, in 2016 to be closer to family. After Elizabeth’s passing in 2018, John lived with his grandson, granddaughter-in-law, and great-grandson, remaining an active family presence. John passed away on June 12, 2022, just shy of his 96th birthday, leaving behind a lasting legacy at the MJQ Centre.

Honoring John McGrath
This tournament honors John McGrath’s contributions to both the community and the MJQ Irish Cultural & Sports Centre. He is remembered alongside fellow community members Jimmy Martin and Donal Gallagher.

Photo Descriptions:

  • John McGrath, Jimmy Martin, Donal Gallagher
  • John’s sons Declan & Kiernan with Ken Dudley