In April 2022, the sudden demise of Dave McKechnie, the deputy foreign editor, left us with a deep sense of loss and admiration for his prolific journalistic efforts. Dave, a seasoned editor with a wealth of experience in subediting, was also a commendable writer and reporter. He undertook groundbreaking reporting assignments in Colombia and Myanmar, while also leaving his mark in sports journalism. His articles reflected his excellent insights, remarkable expertise, witty humour, and distinguished stylistic approach.
To honour Dave’s recollection, we are introducing the Dave McKechnie Memorial Journalism Prize, a writing contest that aims to stimulate and reward insightful writing. Anyone above the age of 18 can submit an entry, out of which, the most compelling entry will be selected by our judging committee.
Participants should pen down an article resembling a “Letter” to the World News section, a style regularly used by Dave. The “Letter from…” format invites participants to delve into any facet of life from any corner of the globe that they have had the opportunity to experience and observe. The narrative can be analytical or observational and adopt either a serious or light-hearted tone, however, it should limit the word count to 800 words.
Several examples of such “letters”, composed by Dave while he reported the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, are attached below.
The successful contestant chosen by our judging panel, consisting of foreign editor Chris Dooley, education editor Carl O’Brien, and Dave’s wife Lilian Dorst, will be awarded a prize of €3,000.
To participate, send your entries via email by June 30th, 2024. Participants are requested to paste their articles directly into the body of the email – attachments will not be considered. Please remember to include your name and contact information with your submission. The award-winning article not only will be showcased across our digital platforms but will also feature in our print edition. The victor will be announced towards the end of July. Terms and conditions apply, details mentioned below.
Eligibility & Participation Guidelines
1. The contest is eligible for all persons aged over 18 years, with the exception of employees, their relatives, representatives or anyone professionally affiliated to the contest.
2. An official entry includes a “letter” as mentioned in the prize details, forwarded by email, and accompanied by the contestant’s name, email ID, and a contact number. The “letter” (article) must not exceed 800 words.
3. Submissions from representatives, third parties, organised groups, or those produced automatically by computers are not legitimate. Any incomplete, unreadable, or corrupted entries will not be accepted. Entries that violate the guidelines for entry will be turned down.
4. The contest commences on 01/06/2024 and concludes at midnight on 30/06/2024.
5. All entries must be submitted no later than midnight on the final date. Any contest entry received post the closing date is deemed unqualified.
6. Each participant can only submit a single entry.
7. By making a submission, you consent to comply with these terms and conditions.
8. We will not be responsible for any lost, damaged or delayed entries due to network, computer device or software failure of any type. Mere sending does not guarantee receipt. All entries will be owned by the promoter.
9. The reward is €3,000. There will be a single recipient.
10. The promoter will not be accountable for any loss, damage or consequential damage of any sort in a contract, tort (including negligence) or otherwise accepted by the approval of these terms and conditions or in concerning the prize.
11. Due to unexpected circumstances, the promoter retains the right to switch the prize with another of similar or higher value.
The triumphant participant will receive a telephone notification. They have a grace period of 30 days from the date of notification to accept their prize. Should they fail to do so within this timeframe, the prize will be forfeited and the organiser retains the right to give the unclaimed reward to an alternative winner, chosen according to the contest guidelines.
The organiser’s verdict is absolute and will stand on all issues. There will be no engagement in any kind of dialogue or correspondence.
The victorious participant may be asked to partake in non-paid publicity in conjunction with this campaign.
Under no circumstances can the prizes be handed over to someone else.
The stipulations and conditions of this promotion will be controlled and interpreted by Irish legislation. For any legal proceedings arising from these, the Courts of the Republic of Ireland will be the only appropriate authority.
At any point, should the need arise, the promoter retains the right to declare the competition as null and void, delay or even terminate it, or make any necessary modifications.