Celebrating over a century of service to Skål International
Skål International proudly honors the remarkable legacy of Mary Bennett and Tony Clegg-Butt, whose combined service to the organization spans more than 100 years.
Mary, the first female World President in 2003, and Tony, World President in 2002, recently reunited in Galway, Ireland, reflecting on decades of dedication and friendship.
Both leaders served Skål International in numerous roles—from club executives and presidents to International Directors—culminating in their presidencies. Their commitment continued well beyond their terms: Tony has served as Trustee and Coordinating Trustee of the Florimond Volckaert Fund for eight years, while Mary remains active as a Trustee of the Skål International Sri Lanka Disaster Fund.
Mary Bennett, a celebrated figure in Irish tourism, was recently awarded the Freedom of the City of Galway, joining the ranks of global dignitaries. Her contributions to the travel industry and to Skål International remain an inspiration to all.
Their story is a testament to the enduring spirit of service and camaraderie that defines Skål International.
In Tony Clegg-Butt’s words:
The photo here is of Mary Bennett, our first lady World President in 2003, and Tony Clegg-Butt, World President in 2002 - catching up with a glass of bubbly at Mary’s home in Galway, Ireland, in August this year. Old friendships rekindled are the best thing in the whole wide world.
Mary and I served Skål International in many capacities prior to being World Presidents, from Club executives to Club Presidents, plus years on the International Skål Council, then 6-7 years as Skål International Directors prior to becoming Vice President and eventually sitting in the ‘big chair’.
Most importantly, we continued to serve this great organisation post-presidency. I as a Florimond Volkaert Fund Trustee/Coordinating Trustee for the past eight years, while Mary still serves as a Trustee of the special Skål International Sir Lanka Disaster Fund.
Mary is an exceptionally fit and very lively 89-year-old who leads a very busy life, who entertained Alison and yours truly royally. She is a travel icon in Ireland, famous indeed; everyone in the travel industry knows her - born out by people coming up to her while we were out and about, sometimes in obscure locales, to say hello.
She was recently awarded the Freedom of the City of Galway, where she joins other luminaries such as Presidents Ford, Reagan, Biden and Obama - her contribution to tourism in Ireland is immense.
Not forgetting her garden - absolutely amazing, as I am sure you will all agree.
