Máire O'Connell, ADCRG Máire O'Connell, started the Claddagh Dance Company in 1985 in Ventura, California.  Máire moved from Galway, Ireland to Ventura in 1978.  Máire is a respected member of the Irish Community throughout the World.  She has been accredited by the Irish Dancing Commission of Dublin to teach, choreograph and ajudicate Irish Dance.  These accreditations are a vital part of her ability to cultivate the dancing talents of so many Irish Dancers throughout her 7 studios.  Máire has had numerous World Champions, Regional Champions and National Champions.  In addition to teaching and ajudicating, Máire is activly involed in the Irish community and encourages her students to take interest in their communities. Maggie Darlington 2007 (17-18) World Irish Dancing Champion 2006 (U17) Western Regional Oireachtas Champion 2006 (U17) North American Champion Maggie has accomplished something no other North American Irish Dancer has done this year. She has danced her way to a "Tri-Fecta" of Irish Dancing winning every major championship Irish Dance has to offer. Maggie dances in our Ventura studio under the direction of Máire O'Connell.  She has been dancing for more than 15 years.  She currently attends Santa Buenaventura High School.