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MINISTER RING ANNOUNCES €5 MILLION SMARTER TRAVEL INITIATIVE FOR WESTPORT.
WESTPORT WINS NATIONAL TRANSPORT COMPETITION.
Minister for State at the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport, Michael Ring, has today announced a major smarter travel investment programme for Westport totaling €5million.
The county Mayo town has beat off stiff competition to be selected as one ofIreland’s Smarter Travel Demonstration Areas 2012-2016. The Westport Smarter Travel proposal was developed by Westport Town Council and Mayo County Council with strong community support from the people ofWestport.
“This news is a major boost for the town. It will put Westport right at the centre of the Government’s transport policy and make the town a national leader in terms of innovation in transport and will be a great boost for the town’s tourism potential” stated Minister Ring.
“There were fears this programme would be scrapped with the cut backs but I have been working closely with public transport Minister, Alan Kelly, to make sure this got over the line. It was an excellent bid by Westport Town Council and Mayo County Council and I am delighted to see it has been approved because I pushed so hard for it” added Minister Ring.
The Smarter Travel Demonstration Areas is a national competition that looked at towns to provide the best package to facilitate initiatives that would encourage people out of their cars and into using walking, cycling and coordinated public transport. Westport’s bid had strong community support and was based around active tourism so thatWestportwill offer visitors a high quality smarter travel experience.
“What we will see here are a number of measures aimed at facilitating cycling, walking and using more public transport. You will see high quality greenways connecting residential areas with schools, workplaces and the town centre. Furthermore, the provision of a sustainable transport coordination facility for the town is also proposed”.
“Westportwill now joinLimerickand Dungarvan and lead the way in terms of transport initiatives for the country. Other local authorities will use the example set inWestportin their own towns and will work towards reducing the carbon footprint of travel in our towns. Change in travel behaviour inWestportwill be based on hard and soft measures supported by partnership with community, business and voluntary groups in the area”.
“The cross community support and engagement with this winning bid is extremely impressive. It is typical of the kind of co-operation and involvement which we have come to expect fromWestportand which is a fundamental part of the success of the town in the Tidy Towns Competition and other competitions over the years. I would like to thank the many individuals, groups, organizations and agencies which have contributed to making this success possible.”
Welcoming the announcement, the Cathaoirleach of Westport Town Council, Councillor Christy Hyland said “It is a great day for this town and offers the opportunity to reinforce the message thatWestportis an environmentally friendly, sustainable and beautiful welcoming place to visit, live and invest.”
The County Manager Mr. Peter Hynes said “The award is testimony to twenty years of hard work and responsible planning in the town and it’s environs and we in Mayo look forward to the challenge of delivering the project to makeWestportinto The Ideal Town and a model for other towns in the twenty first century”.
Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:07:00 GMTSpring 2012 Programme of Courses and Events Launched by MSP
Child Protection in Sport, Sports First Aid, Sports Leadership Training, Funding Workshops, Club Development Seminars, coach education and Disability Awareness Training are just some of the upcoming sports volunteer training courses which will be available through the Partnership over the coming months. These courses / seminars are aimed at community / sport volunteers, coaches or indeed anyone who may have an interest in sport / physical activity. Dates and venues are finalized with a full listing now available online. To view timetable please click here 2012 MSP Spring Timetable of Courses and Events
“ Supporting the Sports Volunteer is one of our primary objectives in the Sports Partnership. We recognise the outstanding work that volunteers do in the community and we hope to give them some quality information through our programme. All courses / events are subsidised through Irish Sports Council funding and through local funds from initaitives such as the Western People Womens Mini Marathon” Sports Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert commented.
Included in the comprehensive schedule is club development seminar on Monday 6th February titled "Building an Effective Club" with Minister of State for Sport and Tourism Michael Ring as keynote speaker. Issues to be discussed in an informal type workshop setting include Child Protection in Sport, Better Use of Facilities, Social Media, Volunteer Recruitment and Committee roles and structures
All courses are subsidized by the Partnership and more details can be got by contacting the office at 094-9047025
Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:58:00 GMTMinister Ring to address Club Development Seminar in Breaffy Mon 6th Feb
As part of their spring 2012 programme of events Mayo Sports Partnership are to host a club development seminar for sports clubs / groups on Monday 6th February 7pm - 10pm in Breaffy GAA Centre Castlebar. Keynote speaker on the evening will be Minister of State for Sport and Tourism Michael Ringwho will be joined on the night by local experts giving presentations on a number of pertinent topics including child protection in sport, generating income through better use of facilities, social media for beginner clubs, committee structures / roles and volunteer recruitment strategies. Indeed as part of the proceedings Minister Ring will also locally launch the new Get Ireland Active website www.getirelandactive.ie which is a one stop shop for physical activity in the country.
To download a copy of the application form please click here 2012 Club Development Seminar Application Form
Clubs / organisations are challenged, in the current economic climate, to raise enough funds for their club. One of the seminars key inputs will be on how clubs can utilise their indoor / outdoor facilities to generate additional income. Practical ideas will be presented, utilising a successful club template in Breaffy GAA Club with examples of successful Sports Partnership and other programmes also highlighted on the night.
The seminar MC Liam Horan will ensure that the event will be interactive in nature, attendees will be able to select from 3 workshops on the night with a questions and answers session also part of the programme. An individual fee of €10 will apply but clubs will be able to send a maximum of 4 representatives for a nominal €20. An added bonus is that all clubs represented on the night will be entered into a draw for €200 worth of sports equipment kindly sponsored by Elverys Sports. A representative of Elverys Sports will also be discussing the great team wear ranges available from Elverys Sports.
“Mayo Sports Partnershiprealises that club volunteers are facing many issues of which changes in child protection legalisation is one. We hope that the seminar will inform people and give them some ideas on how to make their club more effective. I would particularly like to thank MinisterMichael Ring for his support and also acknowledge South West Mayo Development Company, Mayo North East Leader Partnership, Mayo County Community Forum, Mayo County Development Board and Elverys Sports without whom this event would not be able to take place” commentedMayo Sports PartnershipCo-ordinator Charlie Lambert.
The seminar will appeal to sports volunteers, administrators, coaches, leaders, teachers, parents, sport development officers or general members of the public who may be interested in being involved in sport in their local community. Indeed the event is open to members of any clubs / organisations who may not have sport / physical activity as part of their central focus. To book your place at the event you can download an application form at www.mayosports.ie/news where you can also view a wide range of other workshops / courses such as Child Protection in Sport, Sports Leadership, Sports First Aid, funding information and disability awareness. To obtain an application form you can also contact Padraic at 094-9047025 or email msp@mayococo.ie .
Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:32:00 GMT
Now open for Entries - Western People West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon
Thousands to take to the streets of Castlebar for
Western People West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon
The third annual Western People West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon will take place in Castlebar on Sunday, May 6, 2012. More than 5,000 women are expected to take part in this year’s event.
The event was officially launched in Áras an Chontae, Castlebar on Thursday evening, January 26, by Minister for Sport and Tourism, Michael Ring. The Minister congratulated the organisers and participants who have made the event possible over the last two years and wished them the very best of luck on the May Bank Holiday Sunday this year,
The event was dreamt up by the Western People in 2010 and enthusiastically taken up by the Mayo Sports Partnership. The inaugural event attracted some 3,000 participants, while 4,000 took to the streets of Castlebar in 2011. It is expected that this year’s event will be bigger and better than ever before.
In developing Western People West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon, the intention was to create a fun day, encouraging people to get out, get fit and enjoy the company of other women.
The 10k race is open to serious athletes, fun runners and walkers. It also acts as a major fundraiser for charities and over the last two years, local charities have succeeded in raising €1million through the Mini Marathon. Some 60 charities were represented in the Mini Marathon in 2011.
In addition to the event itself, the benefits the Mini Marathon brings for Castlebar cannot be underestimated. “Holding the Western People Mini Marathon in the County Town is something we’re very proud of in the Western People and we are thrilled with the economic benefit it brings for Castlebar. Again this year, we are hoping that the town comes out in force to welcome the entrants,” said Cróna Esler, deputy editor of the Western People, speaking at the launch of the event in the county council chamber, Áras an Chontae.
“The mini marathon has become a major event in Mayo Sports Partnerships calendar and is a vital focus now for women who participate in our walking programmes such as our ‘FitWalk Programme and running programmes such as Fit4life ‘meet and train’ programmes throughout the year. The revenue from the mini marathon has also allowed us to develop many new programmes some targeting minority groups in disadvantaged areas as well as ‘introduction to athletics’ programmes for national school children in Mayo. The Mini Marathon has also allowed us continue our ‘Special Participation Grant Scheme’ which funds worthy sports programmes in clubs and organisations throughout the county. We are really looking forward to the 2012 mini marathon and a new impetus in Physical Activity throughout the county. ” added Anne Ronayne, Community Sports Development officer with the Mayo Sports Partnership.
Entrants must be over 15 years of age. To enter, fill in the form in the Western People or enter online at www.westofirelandwomensminimarathon.com. Entry costs €20.
Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:40:00 GMT
Community Fit Walk now running in Roundfort and Westport
The Community Fit Walking Programme is continually expanding throughout communities in Mayo. This 5 week programme suitable for people of all ages and abilities is now available in Roundfort Community Centre on Tuesdays 8pm - 9pm and is due to commence in Westport Leisure Park on Tuesday 24th January at 11am. For more information on this programme on the community Fit Walk initiative please see below or phone Mayo Sports Partnership 094-9047025
Is your community looking for new innovative fitness sessions in your local community centre? Tired of the same old routines? Why not try the newly launchedMayo Sports Partnership/ Mayo County Council Fit Walk Programme which is delivered by fully qualified fitness / walking instructors.
The overall aim of this programme is to promote Fitness through Walking.
The Programme comprises 5 x 1hr once-weekly sessions delivered in an indoor setting. The key outcomes are that participants will;
- understand the key components of physical fitness and how to get best fitness benefits from walking;
- understand how to use Step Counters and Heart Monitors and their function in getting best fitness benefits from walking;
- be familiar with the techniques of StrideWalking and PowerWalking.
Participating communities must have access to an indoor hall, minimum badminton court size, for 1 hour per week for 5 weeks. Cost for the 5 week programme will be €20 working out at four euro per class.
This fee will cover use of materials and equipment ie Heart Rate Monitors and Step Counters. The group should be about 20 in number. Classes can also be scheduled in the mornings as well as evening time.
If your community or group is interested in taking up this programme, expressions of interest can be made to the Sports Partnership Office 094-9047025 or by email to msp@mayococo.ie
Thu, 10 Nov 2011 12:37:00 GMT
Fantastic Turnout for Operation Transformation Walk
In prime weather conditions the Mayo leg of the national Operation Transformation walk went ahead on Saturday 14th January on the greenway inWestport. Approximately 300 people, including Mayo Ladies GAA and Carnacon star Cora Staunton, participated in the event organised byMayo Sports Partnership, Mayo County Council andWestportLeisurePark.
After participants were treated to a fun warm up by leader Eduardo SantosCaitheoirleach of Westport Town Council Christy Hyland formally welcomed the large attendance to the area.
Trained leaders led the participants who were organised into groups based on their level of fitness and ability. All completed the 5K walk and were treated to welcome refreshments at theWestportLeisureParkafterwards. Sports Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert and Dermot Langan fromWestportLeisureParkaddressed the gathering giving them useful tips and pathways for further opportunities in active recreation.
As an outcome of the event the group has decided to continue walks on the Greenway every Tuesday at 7pm. The meeting point is theWestportLeisureParkand all are welcome. People call exercise at their own pace in a social group setting with a walking leader in attendance.
Indeed the LeisureParkis commencing a 5 week indoor Fit Walk programme, in association with Mayo Sports Partnership, commencing on Tuesday 24th January at 11am. Through the programme people will understand the key components of physical fitness,how to get best fitness benefits from walking,understand how to use Step Counters and Heart Monitors and be familiar with the techniques of StrideWalking and PowerWalking
The Sports Partnership would like to thank all who participated and assisted with the organisation event including walking leaders, Mayo County Council Walking OfficerAnna Connor,DermotLanganWestportLeisureParkand Supervalu who sponsored water for attendees.
Further information on walking groups or meet / train networks in Mayo can be got by contacting the Mayo Sports Partnershipat 094-9047025 or log on to www.mayosports.ie
Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:53:00 GMTFit4Life Resumes after the Festive Break
Mayo A.C. ‘Fit4Life’ organised in association with Mayo Sports Partnership, resumes this week after the Festive break.The increasingly popular weekly sessions which cater for all fitness levels from beginners upwards, are an ideal opportunity for people of all ages to improve their health and well being. They take place in a safe sociable environment and at low cost and are open to people over 18, with no upper age limit. All centres have trained team leaders in attendance catering for those who wish to walk, jog or run or who want to progress from one of those levels to another.
Mayo A.C. Fit4Life venues times and contacts:
Ballyhaunis Tuesday evenings 6pm for walkers 7pm for runners Saturday mornings 9am for all Venue .Multi Use Games Area [beside Friary Field Contact.Martin [087] 2455989 or Anne [086] 8115769
Ballinrobe Thursday evenings 7.45 and Sunday 10 am Venue The Green Ballinrobe [beside soccer pitch] Contact ..Joan [087] 6726029 [after 6pm]
Castlebar Monday evening at 7pmVenue Breaffy G.A.A. CentreContact Anne [086] 8635534
Claremorris Thursday evenings at 7.30 pm Venue Claremorris AC. Track at 7.30 pm Contact Michael at [086] 8534729 after 7pm.
Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:02:00 GMTKeep Active over the Christmas
Why not take in a bit of leisurely exercise over the christmas period with a wide range of local events in Mayo. Please click on this link to see full listing 2011 Christmas Events The staff of the Mayo Sports Partnership would like to wish you all a very happy and safe christmas.
Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:03:00 GMTSports Minister announces 2012 Sports Budget details
The total spend across sport in 2012 will be €80.3 million. This is down 9% on last years spend.
€16 million is to be invested in the National Sports Campus over the next four years.The Irish Sports Council will move to Abbotstown House next year.There will be no funding available for the Indoor Arena, it is hoped that this money will be raised through philanthropy.
€64million will be spent on the Sports Capital Programme over the next four years.
€32million will be be spent on Swimming Pools over four years.
The allocation of funding through Irish Sports Council reduced funding for various sporting organisations and programmes by 5% in 2012.
Mon, 12 Dec 2011 15:26:00 GMTMayo A.C. launch their Winter Fit4Life Programme
Mayo AC have just announced details of their Winter Fit4Life programme .The club now operates four meet and train groups in the southern part of the county in Ballyhaunis Ballinrobe Castlebar and Claremorris.
Fit4Life caters for people over 18 with no upper age limit and provides an opportunity for people to improve their fitness in a safe sociable environment at low cost .Fit4life is open to all levels of fitness, from beginners upward and all centres trained team leaders in attendance catering for people who wish to walk, jog or run or who want to progress from one of those levels to another.
Since it was first established in the Spring of 2009 the Mayo A.C. Fit4Life has catered for hundreds of members.
Speaking recently Michael McGrath Chairman of Mayo AC. Outlined what has happened to date “Since the Mayo A.C. Fit4Llife was set up in Claremorris in February 2009 we have helped many women and men to improve their fitness and general health. We have organised a number of 5k series races with a fun aspect for people of all levels of fitness and on occasions we offer workshops for people to offer advice on various themes like fitness, nutrition footwear etc
With Fit4life there is no pressure to attend each week. While some members attend regularly others dip in and dip out as it suits their lifestyle. Also there is always a big welcome back for those who may not have attended for a while. Fit4life has a huge social element to it and great friendships have been forged through walking, jogging and running in the past few years.
For the next four weeks (leading up to the Mayo A.C, Fit4Life Christmas Party in the Dalton Inn Claremorris on Thursday night December 22nd ) all who attend any of the Fit4Life sessions enter a free draw for a selection of prizes including the star prize of a top of the range I.Phone in association with the clubs sponsors C+C Cellular .This promotion is open to all existing Mayo AC/Fit4life members and of course all new perspective members who can join in at any of the venues on any of the evenings. After a short break for the festive season Fit4Life will resume early in the New Year.
The Mayo A.C. ‘Fit4Life’ is organised in association with Mayo Sports Partnership. Speaking recently Anne Ronayne, Community Sports Development Project Worker complimented the club on its achievements to date and wished them well on their winter promotion and their plans for 2012. “Fit4life has been and can be life changing for many people, over the years I have seen many people really increase their fitness becoming more confident in their walking and jogging. The weekly sessions give people something to aim for and with great leaders to help newcomers it really is an opportunity for all people to improve their health and wellbeing”
Mayo A.C. Fit4lLife venues times and contacts
** Ballyhaunis Tuesday evenings 6pm for walkers 7pm for runners
Saturday mornings 9am for all
Venue .Multi Use Games Area [beside Friary Field
Contact.Martin [087] 2455989 or Anne [086] 8115769
** Ballinrobe Thursday evenings 7.45 and Sunday 10 am
Venue The Green Ballinrobe [beside soccor pitch]
Contact ..Joan [087] 6726029 [after 6pm]
**Castlebar Monday evening at 7pm
Venue Breaffy G.A.A. Centre
Contact Anne [086] 8635534
**Claremorris Thursday evenings at 7.30 pm
Venue Claremorris AC. Track at 7.30 pm
Contact Michael at [086] 8534729 after 7pm.
Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:03:00 GMT
Details of 2012 Operation Transformation Walk Announced
The 2012 Operation Transformation Walk will once again take place on the Westport Town Greenway on Saturday 14th January at 2.30pm. Operation Transformation will once again kick off in January 2012 with the Sports Partnership network playing a supporting role. Keep an eye on http://www.rte.ie/ot/
Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:06:00 GMTOperation Transformation Star to present Goal to Work Certificates this Friday
13 jobseekers from the Ballina area have just completed a 14 week long specialised sports coaching course which it is hoped will provide them with the tools to obtain some part time employment. The “Goal to Work” programme, for 2 days a week, allows trainees to become fully qualified G.A.A. , Rugby and Soccer coaches with additional sports modules in child protection, first aid, disability awareness and active leadership also been offered. Trainees also honed their skills while on placement in Ballina urban area national schools for one of days giving many school children some quality coaching.
On Friday 9th December all trainees will be presented with a folder of certificates by Mr Ronan Scully of recent Operation Transformation fame. Ronan has a sporting background coming from GAA country in Clara Co. Offaly. Recently Ronan has worked for the charity agency GOAL, overcome many personal obstacles through the Operation Transformation series and has just returned from Ethiopia having participated in the Great Ethiopia run. Attendees of the event are bound to be fascinated by his personal story and challenges he has encountered.
Also speaking at the event will be Ballina Town Council Mayor Cllr Peter Clarke who earlier this year attended the launch of the initiative and commended the project co-ordinators Mayo North East Leader Partnership, Mayo Sports Partnership and Mayo County Development Board for their foresight in bringing such an innovative programme to fruition.
“Goal To Work” is an exciting initiative originally piloted in Mayo in 2010. The first programme trained 12 jobseekers to become fully qualified soccer coaches and referees with many of those gaining some part time employment as a result. Goal to Work 2 builds on the pilot initiative, is multi sport and specifically targeted the Ballina urban area. In addition, training was provided on how to explore setting up a business, enterprise and further educational opportunities. Other modules included IT, communication skills, progression routes and CV preparation. All of which would help participants to identify possible employment after the 14 week programme.
Already one of the trainees has taken up an internship with others looking to further their skills through other training courses. Some plan to work with the governing bodies of sport while also continuing to assist schools and local communities in developing participation opportunities.
It is hoped that the initiative will benefit the Ballina area with many of the coaches linking in with the recently formed Moy Sports Network to provide participation opportunities for disadvantaged sectors of the community.
To find out more about the programme log on to www.mayosports.ie or contact Mary Glynn at Mayo North East Leader Partnership Company Knock Office on 094 9376627 or e-mail info@mayonortheast.com
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Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:08:00 GMTNew Round of Sports Capital Grant Scheme Imminent
We have been informed to expect a new round of Sports Capital Projects, €30 million early in the new year. It is envisaged that it will be targeted at specific needs, multi group application and disadvantaged. Keep an eye on http://www.dttas.ie/sport/index.aspx for announcements.
Fri, 02 Dec 2011 12:56:00 GMTIrish Sports Council announce New Initiatives
The Irish Sports Council are providing a number a number of new initiatives which they are intending to offer to individuals and organisations in the sporting sector. These are 1. Learning & Development Services (No financial cost to avail of service)
2. Career Mentoring Scheme for Sport (No financial cost to participate as a mentee/No financial payment will be offered to a mentor)
Find out more at http://www.irishsportscouncil.ie/News_Events/ISC_Mentoring_Scheme/The_Irish_Sports_Council_Career_Mentoring_Scheme_for_Sport.html
Fri, 02 Dec 2011 13:04:00 GMTAchill Island to feature on New Tracks and Trails Programme on RTE
This programme features well know personalities including Comedian Colin Murphy, Meteorologist and Presenter, Evelyn Cusack, Broadcaster Jim Sherwin and Senator /Businessman, Feargal Quinn, taking on the challenge of walking, cycling and paddling on some fantastic trails around the country.
The series, which is produced by Sherwin Media and supported by the Irish Sports Council with a number of other partners, was developed to follow the popular first series which aired on RTE in 2010. Chief Executive John Treacy said “The Irish Sports Council is delighted to support the Tracks and Trails Series which highlights the wonderful natural resources available in the Irish outdoors. The National Trails Office, a unit of the Council, is very active in supporting the development of natural infrastructure for walkers, cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts, both from Ireland and for overseas”.
Areas being features in the new series include South Tipperary, the Burren in Co. Clare, Achill Island in Co. Mayo, Lough Erne in Co. Fermanagh and Howth in Co. Dublin - all of which have some fantastic trails waiting to be explored.
The first programme in the Tracks and Trails Series will air on RTE 1 at 7.30pm on Sunday 20th November. A summary of each programme featured in the series is attached and full details of all five programmes in the series can be obtained on www.irishtrails.ie
Further Details:
Cormac MacDonnell, Irish Sports Council 018608823
Sherwin Media Group, 01 287 4769
Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:02:00 GMTMaking a Case to Government for Funding towards Sport in 2012
IRISH SPORT MEETS WITH GOVERNMENT TO MAKE CASE FOR ROLE OF SPORT IN ECONOMIC RECOVERY
Governing Bodies insist Sport must have more meaningful say in where sports budget invested.
Call for creation of 5 year Masterplan to fully realize potential of Sport in rebuilding confidence and the Economy.
Sport asks Ministers to consider new ways of funding.
Recommendation to set up new body to bid for international events - Danish success highlighted
Irish Sport believes it can have a major role to play in the rebuilding both the nation's confidence and also the economy. A delegation representing the governing bodies
of the 74 National Sports Governing Bodies (“NGBS”) in Ireland met with Mr Leo Varadkar TD , Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and Mr Michael Ring TD, Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, this afternoon Thursday 24th November, to present the case for Sport as a catalyst in restoring the country's good name and also its finances.
The delegation called on the government to work more closely with those involved in sport to examine the many different ways in which they believe sport can make a real difference. Earlier in the day a number of the country's leading sports personalities launched a document which outlines the positive impact sport already makes on the country. This document can be downloaded here 2011 Sports Matters Campaign
The 74 NGBs which include the FAI, GAA, IRFU, GUI, Olympic Council of Ireland and the Federation of Irish Sport (the “Federation”) were represented by a delegation consisting of Mr Paraic Duffy, GAA; Mr John Delaney, FAI; Mr Philip Browne, IRFU; Ms Sarah Keane, Swim Ireland; Mr Fergus Murphy, Chairman Federation of Irish Sport and Ms Sarah O'Connor, CEO of the Federation which is the representative body for all of the NGB's and also for the 30 Local Sports Partnerships.
The meeting with the Ministers comes against a background which has seen sport's funding cut for the past two years and with further cuts already indicated for the next three years. Currently the total figure (2011) invested in Sport is €86.4 million which includes €46.7 million distributed to the various sports through the Irish Sports Council. The balance in the main consists of capital funding to meet grant commitments made in previous years. This figure contrasts with the 2008 high €141.83 million.
In making their case to the Ministers the sporting bodies fully acknowledged the scale of the economic crisis facing the country but make the case that the manner in which sport is viewed by government does not take into account the full impact sport has on Ireland in terms not alone of revenue but also health, tourism and our image abroad. The sports bodies also made the point that sport could do even more to help in Ireland’s recovery if only government were to engage with it more fully.
The sports delegation cited what they believed to be a missed opportunity with sport not being included in the recent Economic Network Forum in Dublin Castle. The delegation said that they believed that sport needed to be viewed in the same light as Irish Horseracing - as a major industry that makes a very positive impact for Ireland all over the World. They noted that over 38,000 people are employed in the sports industry in Ireland whilst Irish households consume some €1.9 BILLION in sports related products annually.
In 2009 and 2010 Irish Sport made representations to government pointing out the damaging impact that cutting funds has in the long term. As Sarah O'Connor CEO of the Federation has pointed out:
"The funding provided to Irish Sport through the Irish Sports Council is the seed capital for all else that follows. These funds allow for the creation of sports development programmes, the putting in place of coaching qualifications, child protection programmes as well as supporting our high performance programmes and athletes. Sport does not just happen and these funds cannot be switched off with a view to turning them back on when the economic situation improves without significantly impacting on the sporting opportunities available in our communities not to mention the development of our talented athletes.
“The impact of significant reductions in the Irish Sports Council’s grants to sport will not just be felt immediately but will have a significant impact on the medium and long term development of Irish Sport. It is fair to say that Irish Sport would not be enjoying the kind of successes we have enjoyed today both through our teams and individuals without the taxpayers investment. This year alone, one year out from London 2012, Irish sportsmen and women have won 56 medals at major championships all over the world. In 2007, the year before the Beijing Olympics, this figure was 19.”
In their presentation to government the delegation made the point that they all believed that sport if properly supported could do a great deal more for the country than it even does currently.
"Our vision is an Ireland where sport is allowed realise its full potential. We believe the government should support that view, embrace it and help us achieve it. Sport wants to be part of the re-building of Ireland and the Irish economy. As a priority we want the government to bring together all of the key players in Irish sport with a view to developing a Masterplan and a real Vision for Irish Sport for the next 5 years.”
“This masterplan would look at sport in the widest possible view and would analyse where money is currently being spent by the taxpayer on sport or sport related activities - and where it really needs to be spent. Sport knows best what its needs are if it is to deliver on its potential."
"We would see that master plan encompassing sports tourism both at home and abroad, sport and its impact on health ( with real savings to be made in the health budget) and sport as an image builder to re-build our image worldwide. We fully acknowledge that good work is being done in these areas but our point is that it could be so much better if there was more joined up thinking and more inter-action with the sports community. The day should be long gone when people 'think' they know what’s good for sport. Sport knows best where the best long term return is to be had from any investment"
"In this latter context we are calling on the government to work with all of us involved in sport as to where the new - and much welcomed - Sports Capital Fund of €30 million should be spent. Money is too scarce to waste any of it. It must be spent where it will do the most good - for sport and ultimately for the country. Each NGB will have identified its strategic priorities in terms of sporting infrastructure. These priorities must be taken into account by the Department in allocating these funds".
“In fact our research amongst all the sports indicates that sport would far prefer to see any funds available invested in people and programmes rather than facilities at this point in time. While we appreciate sports capital funding sport in Ireland would far prefer to see its current expenditure budget protected even if that has to be at the expense of the Sports Capital Budget.”
In their submission to government Irish sport stressed the importance of the funds administered through the Irish Sports Council which is vital if Irish sporting success is to be maintained.
“Maximising the potential sport offers Ireland does require funding. Sport does feel that it provides excellent value for the €46.87 invested through the Irish Sports Council. Above all it is these current monies that sport is united in wishing to see protected. Sport does recognise the pressure on monies coming from central exchequer at this time. It is for this reason that sport is also calling on the government to be open to new and innovative ways in which sport might be funded into the future. For instance we would immediately like them to see a review of the current situation whereby amateur sport is excluded from the definition of charitable purpose in the 2009 Charities Act. If this was changed we believe it would immediately make it more attractive for the private sector to invest in sport.”
“Equally we must look at the whole area of health and sport. At a time when our country is experiencing a real crisis in terms of obesity and its long term impact on the health budget and ultimately the economy, why are we not using sport/ physical activity to help solve the problem and make major savings some of which could be re-invested in sport? We would like to see public health goals being linked to sports participation ensuring that participation rates are monitored annually. This should be underpinned by the development of a Physical Activity Plan which again we would see being developed as part of the overall vision for sport".
“It is however in terms of tourism where we believe sport can make a quick and significant impact. Sports Tourism is the fastest growing sector in the global travel industry and is estimated to be worth $600 BILLION annually. We have some fantastic natural sports assets here such as our links golf courses, lakes and rivers and of course two world class stadia. We would like the government to facilitate the setting up of a specific entity to focus on bidding for sports events, both large and small. There is already an excellent model in Denmark where Sport Denmark is now successful in two out of every three bids it makes."
Concluding the presentation to the two Ministers Sarah O’Connor, said: “Our vision is an Ireland in which sport is allowed to realise its full potential. We believe the government should support that view, embrace it and help us achieve it. "
ENDS
Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:21:00 GMT
Minister Ring announces €15,585 in sports grants for 46 older people’s groups i
46 Older Peoples Groups in Mayo are among 906 groups nationwide to share an allocation of €300,000 under the eleventh Go for Life National Grant Scheme for Sport and Physical Activity for Older People. Minister of State for Sport and Tourism Michael Ring announced the allocations at an event held in the Breaffy GAA Centre Castlebar. The Irish Sports Council is awarding the money under the Go for Life national grant scheme, which aims to help local clubs and organisations to increase opportunities for their older members to actively participate in recreational sport and a range of physical activities. To see list of reciepients please click here 2011 Go for Life Grant Reciepients
This year over 1000 applications were received from older people’s groups all over the country. The 906 successful applicants include active retirement associations, senior citizens clubs,ICAguilds, sports clubs, Local Sports Partnerships, day centres and community centres in 26 counties. The grant aid is being used to buy sports equipment and to fund sport and activity programmes.
Making the announcement, Minister Ring said "Last year, over 28,000 people participated in physical activity directly funded by this grant scheme. People are staying more physically active and as a result improving their social, mental and physical well-being. This can lead to substantial savings in health and long-term care costs. The grants announced today are used by communities across the country to promote physical activity for older people. That certainly is a welcome prospect for older people, particularly in rural areas, to get involved in their locality and feel a lot less isolated."
Commenting on the funding to Mayo, which totaled €15,585, Mayo Sports Partnership Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert said he was delighted to see so many groups from Mayo included in the allocation.
“While the total fund has been reduced from last year its fantastic to hear that Minster Ring has committed to keeping this scheme in place for next year. The benefits which it brings to the Mayo community from both a physical and social perspective are more important than ever”
This years allocation brings to € 3.55 million the amount granted under this scheme to older people’s groups over the last eleven years. Mayo Sports Partnership will continue to have older peoples involvement in physical activity as one of its main objectives in 2012. Through its very successful Be Active 55 Programme which is available in 13 Leisure and community Centres throughout the county numerous older people are having fun while taking exercise in a friendly and sociable environment. For more information on this project and other initiatives please contact the Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or log on to www.mayosports.ie
Wed, 23 Nov 2011 13:47:00 GMT10 Post Primary Schools Participating in 2011/2012 Girls Active Project
After the fantastic success of the inaugural Girls Active Programme last year a large number of schools have expressed an interest in participating in the initiative during this school year. Mayo Sports Partnership are delighted to announce that 10 schools have been selected to participate in a 10 week programme.
Girls Active is targeted at teenage girls who do not participate in mainstream sport and are given opportunities to participate in activities such as Boxercise, Bootcamp, Zumba Dance, Pilates, Yoga, Aerobics etc. The girls select the activities themselves and classes are delivered by accredited Sports Partnership tutors during lunchtime or afterschool.
After Easter 2012 the participating schools will be invited to participate in a jamboree day at a venue to be arranged. Participants will experience more activities and will be presented with certificates of completion of the programme.
More information can be found on www.mayosports.ie or by contacting the Partnership at 094-9047025
Fri, 11 Nov 2011 16:09:00 GMTActive 55 New Programme Details Announced
Are you aged 55+ and looking for something to do?Do you want to feel fitter, have fun, have more energy and meet new people? If you do why not get involved in the Be Active 55 Initiative a project designed specially for you.
The Mayo Sports Partnership, H.S.E. West, Go for Life and leisure / sports centres in Mayo have joined forces in an initiative to get over 55s more active, more often.
Details of the Winter 2011 Programme have just been announced with 13 different facilities offering tailored programmes for older people. From Tourmakeady to Belmullet there are a wide range of venues throughout the county. To see details please click on this link Active 55 Timetable of Participating Centres Nov 2011
Participants can ‘come and try’ activities such as mobilisers, fun fit, social activities, bowling, games, movement for life, balance activities, exercise to music and much more. You will meet new people, have a bit of craic, take some exercise and have a chat with a cuppa afterwards . It’s a win, win, win situation all round.
Is there any cost? . The price of the class is normally €5 which will also cover a cup of tea for participants.
To find out more about the Project you can contact the Health Promotion Services of the HSE at 094 9042589 or Mayo Sports Partnershipat 094-9047025.
Thu, 10 Nov 2011 16:19:00 GMT
Minister Ring relaunches “Link2BActive” Sports Programme for Unemployed in Mayo
Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring together with the Chairman of theMayo Sports PartnershipHenry Kennyrelaunched Link2BActive, an initiative from theMayo Sports Partnershipthat seeks to provide opportunities in sport / physical activity for unemployed in Mayo.
In the last two years unemployment levels in Mayo has risen quite dramatically to approximately 13,000. Being unemployed can be a very frustrating experience, is a time of great financial stress and it can drain people of their energy and affect their physical and mental health.
The importance of physical activity for our wellbeing is well known but often the cost of access to physical recreation means that is no longer as freely available, just when it's probably most needed. Mayo Sports Partnership, has decided to try and tackle this problem in a unique way which is being replicated in a number of other counties.
In speaking about the positive nature of the initiative Minister Ring commented
“ I am delighted to see sports and leisure facilities in the county working with the Sports Partnership in making their facilities more accessible and affordable for sections of the community who need it most. ”
With Link2BActive,Mayo Sports Partnershipis looking to link in job seekers with the local facilities such as gyms, leisure centres, all weather pitches, golf clubs and other facilities where, coincidently, pressure is also on from people dropping off due to economic constraints.
It has asked local sports providers to come up with an offer, complete with terms and conditions, for the use of their facilities by jobseekers. Mayo Sports Partnershiphas developed a page on its website www.mayosports.ie/ProgrammesGrants/Link2BActive/ with all the links to these facility offers.
In phase 1 of the programme approximately 20 facilities participated in the initiative with varying levels of success. Oliver Moran Committee Member with Balla Golf Club described the impact of the programme for their club
“ We found Link2BActive to be of tremendous benefit to our club. For 2011 the club decided to offer daily green fees and a cup of tea for €10 as part of this programme. In May / June alone we had up to 200 people availing of this offer and at least 10% became full time members as a result. I would have no hesitation in recommending involvement to any sports / leisure facility”
"This project is a win win situation for all. We would like to see more and more people availing of the offers and clubs / facilities benefiting as a result. The example of Balla Golf Club has proven that if the right package is promoted that people will participate " added Charlie Lambert Sports coordinator of theMayo Sports Partnership.
A full listing of the participating facilities can be seen on the attached advertisement. You can also download contact details, offers etc by logging on to www.mayosports.ie/ProgrammesGrants/Link2BActive/. If you are interested in the programme please contact the facility directly quoting the “Link2BActive” slogan.
For more details on the Link2BActive programme please contact: Mayo Sports Partnership, Mayo County Council, Castlebar, Co Mayo, T: 094-9047025, E-mail: msp@mayococo.ie
List of participating Centres for Link 2B Active programme:
Leisure and Spa Hotel Ballina, Belmullet Sports Complex, Castlebar Swimming Pool, Ballina Sports and Leisure Centre,Lakeside Sports and Fitness, Claremorris Leisure Centre, Ballina Swimming Pool,Westport Leisure Park, Hotel Westport Ocean Spirit Spa and Leisure
Mulranny Park Hotel ,Foxford Sports and Leisure Centre, Manulla Soccer Club,Barnacarroll Community Centre,Killala Community Centre, Castlebar Tennis Club
McWilliam Park Hotel ,Carne Golf Links Belmullet,Balla Golf Club, Claremorris GAA Club, Martial Arts Mayo, Castlebar Driving Range, Fitness West, Kingfisher Club Castlebar.
Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:56:00 GMT2010 Annual Report Presented to Sports Partnership Board
The inaugural West of Ireland Womens Mini Marathon, a drive to provide increased participation opportunities for jobseekers, introducing children to athletics and the development of a 2nd Sports Strategy were just some of the highlights of the 2010 annual report presented to board of the Mayo Sports Partnership recently. The boards function is to oversee the workings of the Sports Partnership and comprises of 19 representatives from local agencies, community and sporting organisations within the county. To view the report please click here 2010 Annual Mayo Sports Partnership Report . To view the Sports Inclusion Disability Officer 2010 Report please also click here 2010 Sports Inclusion Disability Officer Report
Cllr Henry Kenny-Chairman of Mayo Sports Partnership was loud in his praise for the foresight of the Western People and the Sports Partnership staff to organise such a successful event such as the West of Ireland Womens Mini Marathon “ Having 3,000 women participating in this fantastic event in its first year was a tremendous achievement and I would like to thank all involved in putting it together. I am sure it will grow from strength to strength in the coming years” Cllr Kenny stated.
Cllr Kenny also particularly acknowledged the ongoing work of the Sports Inclusion Disability Officer and the Community Sports Project Worker noting the huge amount of work done in disadvantaged areas. The establishment of the Moy Sports Forum in Ballina and the formation of a countywide Boccia (Type of Indoor Bowls) league were only two of the projects which were mentioned at the bi monthly meeting. He also thanked the Irish Sports Council for their ongoing support and praised Mayo County Council County Manager, Mr Peter Hynes, for hosting the Partnership and providing it with key resources in order to carry out its work during this challenging environment.
Looking ahead Cllr Kenny said “Going forward the current economic environment will provide many challenges for us but sport / physical activity is going through a boom at the moment. Much credit must go to the Sports Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert and his staff for continually delivering high quality participation programmes and working with local agencies and all sections of society.”
The Chairman also congratulated local T.D.Michael Ringon his appointment as Minister of State for Tourism and Sport and wished him well in his new role.
The Sports Partnership can be contacted at 094-9047025 or e-mail msp@mayococo.ie . You can also log on to its website at www.mayosports.ie
Significant Achievements in 2010 included
Developing and launching the 2nd Strategic Plan for Sport and Recreation in Mayo.
Co organised the Inaugural West of Ireland Womens Mini Marathon which attracted over 3,000 participants over the May Bank holiday in Castlebar.
Launched an initiative “ Link2BActive” which provides jobseekers with opportunities to participate in sport and physical activity at discounted rates in 20 leisure / sporting facilities throughout the county.
Co partner in a training programme “Goal to Work” which provides 12 jobseekers with the skills to become fully trained coaches and referees while also giving them personal development skills to assist them.
The Active 55 participation project for older people is now active in 15 leisure and community facilities throughout Mayo with 300 participants. The project was showcased on national television as a project funded by the national lottery in the “Winning Streak” programme
Co Partner in the inaugural “Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival” and organised the Festival of Sport Fun Day which alone attracted approx 2,000 people.
Co organised with Walking OfficerAnna Connorthe Mayo in Motion Walking and Cycling Month which attracted 3,000 participants during June.
Mr Jimmy Corbett Carnacon Ladies GAA Club Manager was recognised as a National Sports Volunteer of the Year by the Department of Arts Sport and Tourism.
€ 25,000 was allocated to 28 groups / organisations through ourSpecial Participation Grant Scheme in 2010 with €6,000 allocated to athletic clubs involved with the West of Ireland Womens Mini Marathon.
Facilitated the formation of a county wide Boccia league for people with a disability. 12 teams from all over the county with approximately 50 participants. In addition 30 people with a disability participated in an Adventure Sports day inAchill.
Expanded the Women in Sport programmes to include Fit4Work a workplace physical activity programme ( 300 participants ), Girls Active for teenage girls who do not participate in mainstream sport ( 100 participants in 5 schools ), Community Fit Walk Programme and Summer 5K fun run / walk series (400 participants in 3 events).
Facilitated the development of a “Mayo Cycle for Fun Series” which promoted leisure cycling in 4 different areas throughout the county with approx 250 participants.
Completion of a very comprehensive volunteer training programme in 2010 attended by 319 volunteers. Courses included Child Protection in Sport, Occupational Sports First Aid, Go for Life and performance level volunteer training.
Wed, 12 Oct 2011 17:27:00 BST
National Recreation Week Mayo Events & News
Mayo County Council in coordination with the National Play and Recreation Resource Centre and the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs are proud to be associated with National Recreation Week 2011. The purpose of the Week is to promote the importance of recreation for young people.
Planned Recreational Events in County Mayo
The following organised play activities will be arranged to coincide with the National Recreation Week.
1. In Ballinrobe at the BMX track, located on the Kilmaine Road, there will be supervised activities for all BMX enthusiasts. The event will take place on Thursday the 3rd November 2011 at 6.30 pm. All are welcome to partake.
2. In Ballyhaunis at the covered multi use games area (MUGA), there will be an organised soccer tournament at 12pm on Friday the 4th November 2011. The tournament has been arranged by Scoil Iosa and all are welcome to attend and view the event.
3. In Ballina, you can enjoy an afternoon of Sport, Gaelic, Soccer andRugbyat the ‘Parkside’ Outdoor Sports Facilities on Wednesday November 2nd from 1-3pm and at ‘Cluain Na Rí’ Outdoor Sports Facilities on Thursday November 3rd from 1-3pm. Contact Sandra, James or Martin at Parkside Youth Centre for more information on 087-2379132. These two sports events are being organised by Moy Sports Forum in association with Goal to Work and Mayo Sports Partnership.
The events, coordinated by the Mayo Sports Partnership, promise to be full of fun for all.
Population
According to the preliminary results of the Census 2011, the population of Mayo has increased from 123,839 in 2006 to 130,552 in 2011, which represents an increase of 5.4%. The population in the main towns of Ballina grew by 3%, Castlebar grew by 1.7% and inWestportthe population grew by 7.4%.
Current Play Facilities
Currently there are playgrounds in Mayo at a range of locations with a concentration in the mail population centres. The majority of these facilities are newly constructed within the last few years. The facilities provided are state of the art and have been designed and built to the highest of accepted standards. The table below shows the play facilities which are available throughout the county.
Play and Recreation Policy forCountyMayo.
The Play and Recreation Policy was published in April 2010 and it was prepared to set out a framework to address the play and recreation needs of the children and young people inCountyMayo.
The vision statement of Mayo Local Authorities in relation to play and recreation is:
“To promote the importance of and opportunities for play and recreation within Mayo so that young people experience a range of quality opportunities to enrich their lives and to promote physical, cultural, mental and social well being.”
The following are the six key objectives in the Policy.
- Give children and young people a voice in local issues that affect them.
- Raise awareness of the importance of play and recreation activity
- Ensure that children’s play needs are met through the development of a child-friendly environment
- Maximise the quantity, range and quality of public play opportunities
- Develop appropriate recreational facilities and opportunities for older children
- Develop a partnership approach to funding and developing play and recreational opportunities
The Development of Play Facilities within Mayo
There has been a major drive within theCountyofMayoduring the last 10 years to provide adequate play facilities to youths within the county. In the past there was a reluctance to provide these facilities because of the insurance liabilities associated with them. However this has changed in recent years with the construction of a multitude of high quality playgrounds and multi use games areas.
All of these facilities are state-of-the-art and have been designed and built to the highest of accepted standards using modern equipment. All of the facilities constructed in recent years fully conform to the highest safety regulations (EN1176 relates to safety surfacing and EN 1177 relates to play equipment).
The first round of playgrounds was constructed in the major population centres of Ballina, Castlebar andWestport. Thereafter the smaller towns and villages are being provided with playgrounds.
In more recent years, we are finding that we need additional facilities for teenagers and adults. In many cases, the additional facility has been constructed adjacent to the existing facility. The construction of multi use games areas have proved very successful. The latest additional facilities to be provided are skate parks and outdoor gyms.
Mayo County Council is currently working on a number of projects which they hope to bring to completion by the end of the year. The current schemes are funded through the Sports Capital Programme and the details are as follow:-
- MUGA Balla
- MUGA Pollranny
- MUGA Ballinarobe
- MUGA CastlebarTownPark
- MUGA Canalside Ballina
- Out Door Gym Lough Lannagh Castlebar
- Out Door GymCastlebarTownPark
- Out Door GymGreenwayRecreationParkWestport
- SkatePark Castlebar
Speaking about the provision of the latest additional facilities, Mr Peter Gill, Executive Parks Superintendent with Mayo County Council stated “the playgrounds are very successful, not only for the youth as a community facility, but also as an informal place of congregation for parents and grandparents who accompany their children to the playgrounds”.
Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:15:00 BST
’ Physically active’ Conference goes down a Storm
Despite the weather the ‘Physically Active’ Themed Conference which focused on Activity, Accessibility & Healthy Lifestyle themed conference which was held on Thursday 6th October 2011, in the TF Royal Hotel, Castlebar proved to be a huge success.
The day is aimed at all People with a disability as well as their parents, carers and organisations so that all can understand the value and the benefits of being ‘Physically active’.
The Day kicked off with some presentations from Sports Inclusion Development Officer Ray Mc Namara, Niamh Daffy Manager of the Cara APA Centre Tralee, Barry Robinson duty manager and Disability Officer fromWestportLeisureParkand Martin Salmon Kyaction Kayaking Club Castlebar.
The day when burst in to activity with a number of different workshops, this included Kayaking, Soccer, Tennis, Wheelchair Basketball, Nutrition and Healthy Eating, Boccia, Tips on getting started byWestportLeisureParkand Beep Baseball.
Mayo Sports Partnership would like to thank everyone who helped in making the day such a huge success.
If you are interested in any of the activities that took place on the day log on to www.mayosports.ie or call Ray Mc Namara Mayo Sports Partnership on 094 904 7023 or email: rmcnamara@mayococo.ie
Wed, 12 Oct 2011 17:35:00 BST
Autumn 2011 Newsletter now available
The biannual newsletter of the Sports Partnership is now able to view. For all the latest news updates and upcoming events. Please click here to download a copy Autumn 2011 MSP Newsletter
Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:18:00 BSTNational Trails Day Sun 2nd Oct 2011 - Get Out There
This years National Trails Day takes place on Sunday the 2nd October 2011. This will be the fourth ever event of its kind taking place across the country and everyone is being encouraged to take part. Ms. Anna Connor, Walking Development Officer with Mayo County Council outlines that National Trails Day is a great opportunity to highlight and showcases the various high quality walking and cycling trails that’s now available throughout the county. In Mayo there are many groups involved in orgainsing events, some of which include the local Sports Partnership, Mayo County Development Board, Failte Ireland, Coillte, South West Mayo Development Company, Mayo North East Leader Partnership Teo, Mayo County Council, National Trails Office and Local Community & Walking Groups. To mark the occasion a number of scheduled guided walks and cycles have been organised. Many of the events listed for the day includes,
Keenagh Loop Walk
This accredited Fáilte Ireland national loop walk is set close to Nephin Mor and the Nephin beg mountains range, The trail is a beautiful scenic walk with panoramic views of high mountains, a heavenly valley, vegetation and crystal clear rivers and streams. It presents the user with a lot of variety and changing terrain and its length of (11.5km) and rate of assent make it a challenging walk. The combination of spectacular scenery and remote wilderness together with the variety of terrain make this a walker’s dream. A guided walk will start from the Trailhead atBellanadergBridgeat 11.00am. A good level of fitness is required. Please ensure that your wear sturdy walking boots and ensure that you bring waterproofs, snacks and fluid.
Shralagh Loop Walk, Ballycastle
This is a beautiful and relatively easy walk that takes you through remote bogland, forestry and farmland with panoramic views over hillsides, Ballycastle bay Downpatrick Head and the town itself. This 7km walk will commence from the Resource Centre in Ballycastle at 11.00 am . This walk is suitable for all the family. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Enniscoe Loop Walk near Crossmolina
This is a 4km national looped walk which will take you through some beautiful woodland and some interesting local features. This event commences from the official trailhead at Enniscoe Heritage Centre at 12noon. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy waterproof footwear.
The Glen Loop Bonniconlon
This is a 14km loop walk, located just off both theWestern Wayand the oldFoxford Way, this trail will take you through some beautiful and scenic countryside. This event will commence at 2.00pm from the car park / trailhead area located approximately 3km east of Bonnincolon just off the R294. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and waterproof sturdy footwear.
Great Western Greenway Cycle
This organised family friendly cycle will take place along the newly established 11 km Mulranny - Achill Section of the Great Western Greenway. This event will commence at 10.30am from the car park at the rear of the Mulranny Park Hotel. Please note that a hybrid bike is recommend and bikes are available to hire at Mulranny Park Hotel and other bike hire operators locally. For a full listing check out www.greenway.ie
Louisburgh Cycle
As part of National Trails Day celebrations Louisburgh is launching two of its newest cycling loops. All are invited to come along on the day. There will be a choice of two cycles, a leisurely 7km cycle and a 19km one with more varied terrain for those with previous cycling experience. This event will commence at the old Convent building, next to the Church upon the approach road to the town at 2pm. Maps will be provided and signs will direct you as you go along. Refreshments will be provided back at the convent at 4pm or thereabouts. Come along and support this community event and experience our beautiful scenic routes.
Tourmakeady Loop Walk
This is a beautiful 5km NationalLoopWalk which comprises of Coillte woodland. Along the route you experience a beautiful waterfall and rest area. This trail is suitable for all types of walkers and will commence from the Community Centre at 2.30p. Please wear sturdy waterproof walking shoes /boots. Children most be accompanied by an adult.
Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail
This is a guided walk through some wonderful archaeological/woodland and Heritage Sites along a 20km section of the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail between Balla – Ballintubber. This walk will commence at 10am from the trailhead which is located at the Resource Centre in Balla. Please wear sturdy waterproof walking boots.
Introduction to Trail Walking Workshop at Cong
This introductory workshop is designed to give useful information and practical ideas to assist walkers in planning safe and enjoyable walks on marked walking routes. It is especially suitable for those new to trail walking. This event commences at 1.00pm from Ryan’s Hotel in Cong.
Mulranny & Look Out Hill Loop Walk
Mulranny & Look Out Hill Loop WalkThis walk is described as one of the most beautiful short walks in this island, this national loop walk has breath taking views at every turn. And who knows, you may also be privileged enough to spot a rare old irish goat along the way. Registration will take place in the Carrowmore Suite at the Mulranny Park Hotel from 11.30am on Sunday, the 2nd of October. Walk will commence at 12. Please bring raingear, walking boots and a stick.
Clogher Bog Loop Walk
This is an 8km national looped walk which will take you along bogland and some interesting local heritage sites. This event commences from the Clogher Heritage Centre, Newtown, Clogher at 11.00am. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please ensure you wear sturdy waterproof walking shoes/boots
Further Information is available from www.nationaltrailsday.ie or www.mayowalks.ie / www.mayotrails.ie
Thu, 29 Sep 2011 12:31:00 BST
Great Western Greenway 10K Times now available
The inaugural Great Western Greenway 10k Run/Walk took place on Saturday 24th September with over 200 participants lining up for a 2pm start on the Newport side of the Greenway. Under fantastic weather conditions Minister of State for Sport and Tourism Michael Ring sounded the starter hooter and history was made. The event mainly attracted first time runners of this distance and was unique in the fact that it was a trail off road run / walk. To view the times of participants please click here Great Western Greenway 10K Times
The first lady to cross the line at a time of 43 minutes 15 seconds was Kathleen Barry from Partry followed closely by Colette Sweeney and in third place Edel Hackett. Andrew Lynskey of Mayo Athletic Club finished in a time of 36 minutes 47 seconds, 2nd place went to David Harper of Westport Athletic Club and followed by Brendan Conway in 3rd place. The over 35 first lady to cross the line was Caitriona O’Grady; the first male was Anto Devaney of Mayo Athletic Club. Gerry Thomas, 58 years old, left his contemporaries behind as the first to finish in the over 45 age group, Pauline Moran was the first lady to finish in this category.
All participants were treated to a wide range of refreshments and entertainment at the Westport Leisure Park where presentations to place winners and many spot prizes took place. Cllr Ollie Gannon Leas Caitheoirleach of Westport Town Council presented the prizes and was wholesome in his praise of all the participants whether they walked or ran.
" The Town Council was anxious to take this opportunity to promote awareness of the fantastic amenity which is the Great Western Greenway and we are delighted with the response. We would hope to build on this unique event in 2012" Cllr Gannon commented.
Kudos goes to the Mayo Sports Partnership,WestportLeisurePark and Westport Town Council in co-ordinating the event.
Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:35:00 BSTBallina Mayor Launches unique Sports Coaching Course for Jobseekers
13 jobseekers from the Ballina area are to undertake for 2 days a week, over 14 weeks, a specialised sports coaching course which it is hoped will provide them with the tools to obtain some part time employment. The “Goal to Work” programme will allow trainees to become fully qualified G.A.A. , Rugby and Soccer coaches with additional sports modules in child protection, first aid, disability awareness and active leadership also been offered.
“Goal To Work” is an exciting initiative originally piloted in Mayo in 2010. The first programme trained 12 jobseekers to become fully qualified soccer coaches and referees with many of those gaining some part time employment as a result. Goal to Work 2 builds on the pilot initiative, is multi sport and specifically targets the Ballina urban area. In addition, training will be provided on how to explore setting up a business, enterprise and further educational opportunities. Other modules will include IT, communication skills, progression routes and CV preparation. All of which would help participants to identify possible employment after the 14 week programme.
Launching the programme Ballina Town Mayor Peter Clarke wished all the trainees well while also praising the collaboration between the various co-ordinating agencies such as Mayo Sports Partnership, Mayo North East Leader Partnership and Mayo County Development Board.
“ Its fantastic to see the 3 main sporting bodies in the country coming together in providing opportunities for those who need it most. I hope that all coaches will work to provide programmes utilising the wonderful sports facilities developed by the town council”the Mayor commented.
It is hoped that the initiative will benefit the Ballina area with many of the coaches linking in with the recently formed Moy Sports Network to provide participation opportunities for disadvantaged sectors of the community.
To find out more about the programme log on to www.mayosports.ie or contact Mary Glynn at Mayo North East Leader Partnership Company Knock Office on 094 9376627 or e-mail info@mayonortheast.com
Thu, 22 Sep 2011 17:47:00 BSTAll Invited to Westport Festival of Sport Sun 25th Sept
WESTPORT GEARING UP FOR 3rd SPORTS FESTIVAL
Following the success of last years event preparations are in full swing for the 3rd Westport Festival of Sport Fun Day, which is to be held as part of the Westport “Get Out There” Adventure Festival, on Sunday 25th September 1pm – 5pm centred around the Mall area in Westport. To view festival brochure please click here 2011 Westport Festival of Sport Brochure
The event, coordinated by theMayo Sports Partnership, promises to be full of fun activities such as the family sports challenge (incorporating 12 different sports), water sports, traditional games, bouncy castle/fun inflatable’s, walking challenges, street orienteering and a Westport Leisure Park Activity Zone.
To celebrate Westport Uniteds Centenary Year the club has joined up with the Sports Partnership to provide a special activity zone which will include items such as human table football, target shooting and many other fun activities.
Many organisations including Westport Town Council, Mayo County Council,Mayo Sports Partnership, Irish Sports Council, FailteIreland, Chamber of Commerce, Gardaí, Mayo VEC, GMIT, Mayo Water Safety Committee, Family Resource Centre, Local Sports Organisations and many others are pooling resources in an effort to make this day a success. Many local businesses are also providing much needed support on the day.
“This event really showcases what the Westport area has to offer in sport and physical activity. It’s a tribute to all the clubs / organisations that they really have embraced this model of working in partnership to promote sport ” commentedMayo Sports Partnership co-ordinator and committee member Charlie Lambert.
So pencil in Sunday afternoon 1pm – 5pm Sunday 25th September on the South Mall Westport for an unforgettable experience. For further information on how to enter any of the above events or on the day in general contact Mayo Sports Partnership at 094 9047025
The public are asked to note that both sides of the mall from Mc Greevys and O Gradys to the Fairgreen will be closed to traffic from 8am to 6pm on Sunday 25th September to facilitate the activities of the festival.
Thu, 22 Sep 2011 12:42:00 BST
Want to Volunteer with Mayo Sports Partnership?
Due to the ever expanding number of events ie sports days, 5 /10Ks, taster sessions etc Mayo Sports Partnership would like to invite people who may have some spare time on their hands to join their panel of sports volunteers.
This is an opportunity for those interested in sport and recreation to gain valuable experience with the organisation throughout thecountyofMayo.
Charlie Lambert Sports Coordinator said ‘We are delighted to be in a position to put a panel of volunteers in place withMayo Sports Partnership. The volunteers will receive valuable experience and training through us and this in turn should help them to improve their CVs in terms of experience’
Tasks may include marshalling / supervising events, event administration and assisting development officers in project delivery. Applicants should have good communication / organisational skills and be available evenings or weekends.
If you would like to be part of this panel please contact Mayo Sports Partnership for an application form or download a form here Sports Volunteer Application Form
. For further information contact Mayo Sports Partnershipon 094 9047025 or email msp@mayococo.ie
Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:45:00 BSTMinister Ring announces €516,977 funding for 6 sport projects in Mayo
Minister of State for Tourism & Sport and Mayo TD Michael Ring said today (Friday) that he is delighted to announce €516,977 in funding for six sports projects in Co. Mayo.Minister Ring has announced a sports scheme providing funding to Mayo County Council for a wide range of sporting projects, as follows:
Balla - Multi use games area €82,800Ballina - Multi use games area €68,248Castlebar Town Park - Multi use games area and outdoor fitness installation, €103,995Greenway Project, Westport – Outdoor fitness trail €85,000Pollranny - Multi Use Games Area €106,925Westport Leisure Park - refurbishment of changing facilities, fitness suite and active retirement room, and sports equipment €70,009
The Minister said today: ‘I’m delighted to be able to announce this funding, which is designed to encourage more people to get involved in sport. This money should also stimulate work, protect jobs and hopefully create new ones.“Every one of these is an excellent project which will be used by the community. “This isn’t a new round of the Sports Capital Programme, but rather a targeted measure for local authority facilities. No decision has been made on the timing of a new round of the Sports Capital Programme. But I hope to be in a position to announce further allocations in the very near future.”
Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:37:00 BSTMayo Sports Partnership announces Autumn / Winter 2011 Events Programme
Child Protection in Sport, Sports First Aid, Sports Leadership Training, Club Development Seminars and Disability Awareness Training are just some of the upcoming sports volunteer training courses which will be available through the Partnership over the coming months. These courses / seminars are aimed at community / sport volunteers, coaches or indeed anyone who may have an interest in sport / physical activity. Dates and venues are finalized with a full listing now available online. To view timetable please click here 2011 Autumn / Winter Timetable of Training / Events
“ Supporting people who are working at grassroots level promoting sport / physical activity in all its forms is a major objective of the Sports Partnership. We will continue to recognize the invaluable contribution volunteers make to community life by offering subsidized sports education which is even more important in these recessionary times.” Sports Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert commented.
Included in the comprehensive schedule is a conference for the Sport and Disability area titled “Physically Active” and also the popular some primary / pre-school teacher training in the Buntús Programme which has proven to be a tremendous success throughout the county.
Plans are also afoot for an evening seminar in November targeted at all sports / voluntary clubs who have an interest in maximizing the potential of their club. Topics to be covered will include garda vetting, role of committee, insurance, fundraising and volunteer recruitment. More details to be announced later.
All courses are subsidized by the Partnership and more details can be got by contacting the office at 094-9047025
Wed, 07 Sep 2011 17:15:00 BST
Go for Life Grant Scheme for Older Peoples Groups Now Open
The Irish Sports Council has allocated a total of €300,000 from its 2011 budget to the Go for Life National Grant Scheme for Sport and Physical Activity for Older People. The scheme seeks to increase the participation of older people in recreational sport and physical activity. To download application form please click here 2011 Go for Life Application Form
The National Grant Scheme assists in the implementation of locally-developed, well-planned initiatives designed to increase participation in recreational sport and physical activity by older people. In particular, the scheme is aimed at:
assisting local clubs/organisations to enhance existing opportunities for their members in recreational sport and physical activity;assisting local clubs/organisations to initiate new initiatives geared at involving older people in recreational sport and physical activity.
Grants are available to all local clubs, groups and organisations that promote increased participation in recreational sport or physical activity for older people as a main element of their activities. Grants are made available for sport or physical activity for older people and the overall membership of applicants must be such that older people will be the beneficiaries of the grant monies. Commercial, statutory or umbrella bodies are not eligible to apply for this grant. For the purposes of this Grant Scheme, Local Sports Partnerships are not included in these categories and are therefore eligible to apply. Day centres completely funded and directed by statutory bodies such as the HSE are not eligible. Funding for sports clubs will not be considered unless the application specifically relates to older people.
Applications are encouraged from clubs/organisations that:
have the potential to increase levels and frequency of participation in recreational sport and physical activity among older people in the local area;can act as showcases or successful demonstration projects and which can be replicated by other clubs/organisations in the future;have the potential to develop into a sustainable, longer-term programme;are applying for this grant for the first time;are developing initiatives in designated disadvantaged areas;are developing initiatives for minority populations or groups with special needs;have one or more active Go for Life Physical Activity Leaders (PALs);are making a joint application with other groups in their geographical community.
Grants will be between €300 and €700 and may be allocated towards the cost of the following initiatives outlined below:
Physical Activity Programme
For example, (1) a 5-week programme to introduce older people to an activity such as aerobics, aquafit, tai-chi or tennis - the costs of hall hire and a qualified instructor might form part of the overall cost; or (2) an initiative by a sports club to involve more older people – the purchase of special equipment, facility hire or qualified instructor might form part of the overall cost.
Purchase of Equipment / Resource Materials
For example, pitch and putt set, physical activity kitbag, play parachute, badminton rackets, skittles kit. Please note that for the 2011 grant scheme Short Mat Bowling equipment will only be considered for joint applications where it will be shared by two or more groups. Grants will not be allocated towards the cost of audio visual equipment (DVD or CD Players, Televisions etc.) or exercise machines.
Participation Event
For example, organisation of a Sportsfest aimed at introducing older adults to a range of recreational sports.
Grants will not be allocated towards the cost of:
Non-sporting/physical activities
Ongoing Commitments
e.g. membership fees for gyms or sports clubs, rental of facilities or employment of professional instructors on an ongoing basis;
Club Insurance / Taxes or Rates
Foreign Travel / Visits
Feasibility Studies
Competitions
Capital Costssuch as the development or refurbishment of facilities.
Application forms may be downloaded at www.ageandopportunity.ie or at www.mayosports.ie . Furtherv information may be obtained by contactingMayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025
Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:59:00 BSTEnter Now for the Great Western Greenway 10k
Westport Town Council, Mayo Sports Partnershipand WestportLeisureParkare to host the inaugural ‘Great Western Greenway 10k ’ on Saturday Sept 24th 2011 as part of the annual ‘Get Out There’ Festival inWestportTown. Registration and finish points for the event, which commences at 2pm, will be at theWestportLeisurePark. Participants will be transported to the start point on the Greenway hence there is a pre event registration time of 11.30am – 1pm.
To download a hardcopy of the application form click here Entry Form for Greenway 10K
You can also enter online on this homepage. Click on the Great Western Greenway 10K on the right hand side.
Journey back in time and experience the wonders of the Greenway, once the Great Western Railway that carried West of Ireland people on many journeys of their success and our history to far-flung places such asUSAandGreat Britain.
Capture the magic of the West like you’ve never done before…. Enjoy the fun as you walk, jog or run this spectacular scenic trail, which is ideal underfoot for walkers, joggers and serious athletes.
The Event is limited to 1000 participants and costs just €20, participants will receive a specially commissioned t-shirt and lots of other little goodies including fun spot prizes, entertainment, refreshments and category prizes. All participants will be chip timed with water stops on route.
This 10k is an accurately measured course and showers are available at theLeisureParkafterwards.
This is a local authority run event and any proceeds after costs will be reinvested in to the upkeep of the Greenway and local community groups.
So enter today to secure your place in this inaugural event.
The first ever ‘Great Western Greenway 10k’
Enter online at www.westportadventurefestival.ie or www.mayosports.ie to download an entry form.
Please note that latest receipt of entry forms will be by 5pm on Wednesday 21st September.
Further Details contact Anne Ronayne,Mayo Sports Partnership094-9047022 or Anne Melvin at the Westport Town Council Office at 098-50400
Wed, 17 Aug 2011 11:47:00 BSTUnemployed? Want to become a fully qualified Sports Coach? Read On
Are you Unemployed?
Do you want a coaching qualification in GAA, Rugby and Soccer so that you can work as a Coach?
Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company and Mayo Sports Partnership in association with Mayo County Development Board, Connacht Rugby (IRFU), FAI, Mayo GAA, HSE West, Mayo Job Club and Department of Social Protection will deliver “Goal to Work” in Ballina this September. To download an application form please click here Application Form for Goal to Work 2
“Goal to Work” is an exciting initiative originally piloted in Mayo in 2010 by Mayo County Development Board. The first programme trained 12 jobseekers to become fully qualified soccer coaches and referees with many of those gaining part time employment as a result. “Goal to Work” in Ballina builds on the successful pilot initiative and is multi sport with each trainee coach having the opportunity to train at foundation level in Soccer, GAA and Rugby. Each trainee coach will then select one main sport that they would like to specialise in and they will then deliver coaching in local primary schools in Ballina with the support of FAI County Development Officer Paul Byrne, Mayo Games Manager Billy McNicholas and Domestic Games Manager Connaught IRFU Lyndon Jones.
Goal to Work specifically targets unemployed males and females from Ballina, or anyone living in Ballina in receipt of a social welfare payment. Participation on this two day week course will not affect a social welfare payment.
This Goal to Work training programme will include a classroom based learning component with FETAC accredited modules in IT and Personal Effectiveness. It will also deliver accredited training in Occupational First Aid, Child Protection in Sport, Irish Sports Council Active Leadership and Disability Awareness. In addition to these accredited modules this training programme will also provide information through specialist guest speakers on how to set up and manage your own business, enterprise opportunities, job readiness skills, personal development, building self esteem and self confidence, identification of personal progression options in employment, further education and training. Should they wish, trainee Coaches will also visit a third level education college of their choice to meet with the Access Officer and benefit from an orientation visit of the campus. Mayo Job Club will work with trainee coaches to improve their interview performance skills through provision of live interviews that will be digitally recorded with one to one critique of these interviews to enable improved performance at interviews.
Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company would like to invite applications from unemployed people in the Ballina area who will commit to attending this Goal to Work training programme for two days a week over fourteen weeks to become a qualified GAA, Soccer and Rugby Coach. The programme will starting on Tuesday 20th September is open to currently unemployed men and women who can see the potential in becoming a part time or full time coach in these sports.
According to Siobhán Carroll – Webb of Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company the focus of “Goal to Work” will be to tutor people as coaches with the aim of providing them with an option of setting up a business on a self-employed basis at the end of the coaching period, gaining employment or progressing onto further education or training.. It is hoped that the initiative will benefit the Ballina area with many of the coaches linking in with the recently formed Moy Sports Forum to provide sports/activity participation opportunities for disadvantaged sectors of the community. “This is a fine example of effective and efficient inter-agency work” states Siobhán as she stresses the importance of and value in collaborative inter-agency working in the current economic climate.
Mayo Sports PartnershipCo-ordinator Charlie Lambert said “This unique programme has been made possible through agencies working together. The partnership with the Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company,Mayo Sports Partnership, Mayo County Development Board, Connacht Rugby, the FAI, Mayo GAA, HSE West and Department of Social Protection and the Social Inclusion Measures Group of CDB has been the key to the success of this programme”. Another added benefit, according to Charlie will be the availability of an increased number of coaches to work with the various schools, clubs and youth groups across a number ofsports.
Places will be limited to twelve trainee coaches. If you would like further information or an application form please contact Mary Glynn, Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Knock Office on 094 9376627 or e-mail info@mayonortheast.com. Application forms can also be downloaded at www.mayonortheast.com
Completed application forms should be returned to
Mary Glynn, Mayo North East LEADER Partnership, Knock Office, Knock, Co. Mayo.
Closing date for receipt of completed applications is strictly 12 noon Wednesday 31st August
Short listing may apply based on information provided in completed application form. Interviews will take place on Thursday 8th Sept in Ballina.
Fri, 19 Aug 2011 11:27:00 BST
Second Westport Adventure Festival Programme Announced
Following its huge success last year, the second Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival will take place next month, it has been announced, offering families and individuals, novices and adrenaline junkies alike the opportunity to sample and savour a range of outdoor and adventure sports for free and in a safe environment. Please click here to see brochure Brochure on Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival 2011For the weekend of 23rd-25th September, Westport will be transformed into an outdoor and adventure sport heaven with everyone encouraged to “get out there” and partake in a wonderful variety of sporting activities. Zorbing (rolling downhill in an orb made of transparent plastic), orienteering, skateboarding, swimming, stand up paddle boarding and the opportunity to participate in the first-ever Great Western Greenway 10k Run/Walk are amongst the many sporting opportunities that may be experienced over the festival weekend. Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival is supported by Westport Town Council, Mayo Sports Partnership, Westport Leisure Park, Fáilte Ireland, Westport House, Westport Athletic Club and Westport Cycling Club.
Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival will kick off the morning of Friday 23rd September with a schools initiative at Westport Leisure Park entitled Mayo Splash and Dash. Primary school pupils from fourth through to sixth class throughout the county will be invited to submit teams of four to participate in a fun, relay event incorporating swimming and running. The event will commence with a 200m swim in Westport Leisure Park, followed by a 2km run and obstacle course with prizes awarded for the top school teams. All participating pupils will receive a medal and t-shirt. Co-ordinated by Dermot Langan of Westport Leisure Park, entry and details are available by calling 098 29160 or by sending an emailing to info@westportleisure.com
The following morning will see the Get Out’n’Board Skateboarding Competition take place from 11am-1pm in Westport Skate Park where skaters from 8-16 years will compete for several prizes across a range of age groups.
On the same day, families and individuals alike will be guaranteed fun and new experiences by participating in Come and Try Adventure, which takes place at Westport House from 11am to 4pm. Organised by local companies Adventure Islands and Adventure West, Come and Try Adventure –as the name implies - invites people to try their hand at a range of adventure activities. They include: zorbing; orienteering through woodlands & the latest craze of stand up paddle boards. Teams of five people or groups of ten may also try their hand in the sport of Combat Games which guarantee no pain and no splatters – just pure adrenaline! Enquiries to Adventure Islands (098 26709) or Adventure West (087 9049774)
An exciting new addition to the Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival and an anchor event in this year’s programme is the inaugural Great Western Greenway 10k Run/Walk. This initiative will take place on Saturday 24th September and is a wonderful opportunity to utilise the recently-expanded, award-winning Greenway and showcase the beauty of Mayo. Open to recreational runners and walkers as well as committed athletes, participants will be transported to the start of the Greenway from Westport Leisure Park, which will serve as both the registration and finish point for the event. Those interested in participating in the Great Western Greenway 10k Run/Walk may register online at www.westportadventurefestival.ie and www.mayosports.ie. Further information is available from Anne Ronayne, Mayo Sports Partnership (094-9047025).
The Get Out There Adventure Festival will culminate on Sunday 25th September in a family fun initiative on the Mall from 1pm-5pm - the Westport Festival of Sport Fun Day in association with Westport United. Following its huge success last year, this year’s event – coordinated by Mayo Sports Partnership – will offer a host of activities: a family sports challenge incorporating 12 different sports; various water sports; traditional games; a bouncy castle & fun inflatables; walking challenges, street orienteering and a 5K Fun Run / Walk. This year’s Sport Fun Day will also include a special Westport United activity zone to celebrate the club’s centenary year.
The Westport Get Out There Festival, according to organisers, will reinforce the town’s growing reputation as an adventure and outdoor activity destination. “More and more people are embracing outdoor and adventure sports. The experience and authenticity of these sporting activities resonates with people, irrespective of age and background. The great thing about the Westport Get Out There Festival is that it affords everyone – families, individuals, novices and more the experienced – a safe and free opportunity to partake in outdoor and adventure sports and the festival programme is community based, embracing school children, parents and experienced athletes alike. We encourage everyone to come along and ‘Get Out There’ next month”, said Martin Keating, Senior Executive Officer, Westport Town Council.
“Research from Fáilte Ireland shows that activity tourism in Ireland was worth €1.1billion in 2009. €404 million of this came from the domestic market. Increasing Westport’s reputation as a centre for outdoor and adventure sports is great for tourism and the local economy. The Great Western Greenway 10k event is a great addition to the festival this year and will showcase an amenity that is unique to Mayo”, added Brian Quinn, Client Services Manager, Fáilte Ireland (West).
For further information, visit www.westportadventurefestival.ie
Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:29:00 BSTGet on your Bike with Achill Meet and Cycle Group
Following on from the recent opening of the Great Western Greenway from Achill to Westport 42K great interest has been expressed from a number of communities on the route to start up a meet and cycle group. On Wednesday 17th August the Achill Community are to start such an initiative.Adults, especially beginners, are asked to bring your bike along on Wednesday next 17th August at 7pm to the GAA grounds at Achill Sound. Advice will be given by cycling specialist Paul Kilcourse from the Bike Clinic Castlebar, this will be followed by a cycle suitable to all needs. No fee involved. Helmets and high vis vest please. Contact 086 3474442 for further information.
Mon, 15 Aug 2011 11:37:00 BSTFunding Scheme Announced for Boxing Clubs
A one-off grant of €1.25 million to improve facilities at boxing clubs, and in particular to provide accommodation for female boxers, has been announced today (Monday) by Michael Ring, the Minister of State for Tourism and Sport.
The special allocation is being administered by the Irish Amateur Boxing Association (IABA).
“This special allocation is a fitting gesture to mark the centenary of the IABA and recognises that boxing is by far Ireland’s most successful Olympic sport,” Minister Ring said.
“It also acknowledges the fact that many boxing clubs operate in facilities which are in poor condition and lack basic facilities. This special allocation is an important step in helping to ensure that young people will be able to train in decent facilities which are fit for purpose.
Further information:
Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport Press Office: (01) 604 1076/ (01) 604 1090.
Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:34:00 BSTOfficial Opening of Great Western Greenway Westport to Achill
The Great Western Greenway Westport - Achill 42K, Britain and Irelands longest piece of off road walking / cycling route, will be launched by an Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Minister Michael Ring, Junior Minister Tourism, Transport and Sport on Friday July 29th. The launch will kick off in Westport at 2pm, with a brief stopover in Newport for fun and entertainment and in Mulranny and on to finish in Achill. Come and join in the fun and celebration along the route. For more information see www.greenway.ie Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:28:00 BSTIrish Sports Council Publishes Irish Sports Monitor Report 2009
Recovery in Sports Participation Under Way
•Participation in sport increased from 30.8% in 2008 to 33.5% in 2009
• Sedentarism fell from 18.2% in 2007 to 15.5% in 2009
• Rates of volunteering in sport fell from 8.2% in 2007 to 6.8% in 2009
• Attendance at sporting events recovered to 17% after a drop in 2008
• Swimming remained the most popular physical activity (7.2%)
• Sports Monitor for Wicklow & Wexford published, first in a local series of 8
The report, written by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) on behalf of the
Council, measures adult participation in sport and physical activity and compares it with the previously
published information from 2007 & 2008. The full document can be found by following this link
The report shows that there were increases in the levels of physical activity in 2009, a recovery from
2008 which was badly affected by the onset of recession. The proportion of adults who actively
participated in sport rose significantly between 2008 and 2009, from 30.8% to 33.5%
The proportion who walked regularly also went up, from 57.5% to 60.5%.
Overall swimming remained the most popular activity (7.2%) ahead of personal exercise (5.8%) and
soccer (5.6%). Soccer (10.7%) and golf (8.1%) were the most popular activities for men, while swimming
(8.5%) and personal exercise (7.1%) were most popular among women
Walking and cycling as a mode of transport contribute substantially to physical activity, with 45.7% and
11.2% of adults doing each regularly. Students, city dwellers, single people and younger people are
particularly likely to walk and cycle for transport.
The proportion of the population that is effectively sedentary fell significantly from 18.2% in 2007 to
15.5% in 2009.
Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:19:00 BSTMINISTER RING LAUNCHES LINK-2-B-ACTIVE AS A SPORTS PROGRAMME FOR THE UNEMPLOYED
The successful Link-2-B-Active initiative will become a national programme in 2011. Link-2-B-Active creates opportunities in sport for unemployed people. The concept was developed by South Dublin County Sports Partnership which created links to unemployed individuals & groups to facilities which were made available by their operators. The successful model supported 1,100 people become involved in physical activity and is supported by 25 operators. The Irish Sports Council will support Link2BActive as a national programme though the network of Local Sports Partnerships. Mayo Sports Partnership ia already rolling out this programme through 18 sports / leisure facilities throughout the county. Details of discounted rates at all these centres can be found on the Partnerships website at www.mayosports.ie or contact the office at 094-9047025
The announcement was made by Michael Ring T.D., Minister of State of Tourism and Sport at a special event in Westport, Co Mayo. Minister Ring commented “The success of the Local Sports Partnerships is clear to see when 135,000 people participated in their locally delivered programmes and they provided information and other services to more than 7,000 clubs in 2010. The expansion of the Link-2-B-Active initiative to all 32 LSPs is to be warmly welcomed and will provide great benefits to many unemployed people at a time when they need support most”.
At the event Minister Ring officially launched the 2010 SPEAK Report. This is the monitoring and evaluation framework of the work of the LSPs. It recorded a significant expansion of activity on 2009, the first year of national coverage of the Sports Partnership network. The Sports Partnerships were created by the Irish Sports Council in 2000 to provide opportunities in sport for target groups which face barriers to sport.
The Minister also complimented the work of the Mayo Sports Partnership in the promotion of sport and physical activity. Indeed in 2010 almost 15,000 people participated in 63 locally delivered programmes under Mayo Sports Partnership.
The LSPs received €13.4 million in funding in 2010 with the Irish Sports Council as the main funder. The Sports Partnerships source 50% of their funding locally (local authorities, HSE, etc) and this meets the recommendation from the Fitzpatrick Report of 2005.
John Treacy, Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council attended at the launch and commented; “The Local Sports Partnerships have become an essential element of the sports infrastructure in Ireland. Their focus is on increasing participation and the SPEAK Report demonstration their success in activating communities and, within a formal evaluation context, confirms all the positive feedback we receive about their work in every county in Ireland”.
A notable success in 2010 was the Western People West of Ireland Womens Mini Marathon in Castlebar co-organised by Mayo Sports Partnership in which close to 3,000 women participated .
Fri, 17 Jun 2011 16:00:00 BST
Mayo Communities roll out National Bike Week with Numerous Events
National Bike Week begins in Mayo on Saturday 18th June with a Group and Family Cycle with Erris Beo in Belmullet starting at 2pm from the Gateway Leisure Complex. A Bike Maintenance Workshop is also due to go ahead in Tourmakeady at 3.30pm in the local National School.“Cycling really has caught on as a form of recreational physical activity for all in the last couple of years. Last year over 600 people participated in 12 events and we hope to further build on that in 2011,” says Charlie Lambert Sports Co-ordinator Mayo Sports Partnership.
A whole host of other events are due to take place throughout the county with Westport Cycling Club and Achill Tourism in particular organising family fun cycles on the Great Western Greenway on Sunday 19th June and Saturday 25th June respectively. Indeed the Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring is planning to participate in the Westport event and has expressed his support for all communities who are organising these fantastic array of events.
“ I would encourage everybody to get out there and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mayo” commented Minister Ring
A full and detailed listing of all events can be found here 2011 Bike Week Events 18th - 26th June . For further information contact the Partnerships Office at 094-9047025
Fri, 17 Jun 2011 16:06:00 BSTAlmost €19,000 in funding distributed to 38 Sports and Recreation groups by Mayo
At a recent Mayo Sports Partnership Board meeting almost €19,000 was allocated to 38 clubs / organisations in Mayo through both the Partnerships 2011 special participation and Bike Week grant schemes. In announcing the funding Chairman of the Sports Partnership Cllr Henry Kenny complimented the work being done on the ground by many volunteers in tough times. To see list of Special Participation Projects please click here 2011 SPG Reciepients . To see list of Bike Week Grants please click here also 2011 Bike Week Grant Reciepients“ Through this annual small grant scheme Mayo Sports Partnership recognises the unselfish contribution many sports volunteers, throughout the county, make towards improving the quality of life of all ” Cllr Kenny stated.
The aim of the Sports Partnership is to increase participation in sport / physical activity and it is envisaged that all projects will help to do just that particularly in disadvantaged sectors of the population. This year the Partnership was able to distribute €5,000, through funding from the Department of Transport, for recreational Bike Week events which take place from the 18th – 26th June.
“I am delighted to see that this years grant scheme has encouraged groups to set up local Meet and Train Groups where people can walk , run or cycle in a sociable fun setting.” stated Sports Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert.
The Partnership which comprises of interested agencies, Sports and Community Forum representatives, is funded by the Irish Sports Council and is a sub-office of the Mayo County Development Board. For funding under this scheme applicants need to show that the suggested project will increase participation and is sustainable.
As well as funding mainstream sports, this year the scheme has funded initiatives including a Womens Soccer Initiative through Claremorris Soccer Club, a project to increase participation amongst men aged 35 – 65 in the Sean Duffy Community Centre in Ardnaree and a drive by Parke GAA Club to increase womens fitness in the area through weekly classes ending in a local 5K fun run / walk.
Since 2005 the Partnership has brought an overall investment of close to €3 million to developing sport and recreation within the county. Many projects / initiatives involving pre-schools all the way up to older people have benefited from this significant investment mainly through the Irish Sports Councils direct funding. The above figure does not include the very significant input of partner agencies on the board such as Mayo County Council, Mayo VEC, HSE West, GMIT, Leader Companies, Udaras na Gaeltachta, Mayo Education Centre and other stakeholders.
Any further information on the above can be obtained by contacting Mayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or by logging on to www.mayosports.ie
Fri, 10 Jun 2011 11:39:00 BSTEvents announced for Mayo in Motion Month in June
30 communities organizing walks, 16 cycling events, walking festivals, Nordic walking demonstrations and a walking seminar are just some of the highlights of the Mayo in Motion Initiative for 2011 launched by Junior Minister for Sport and Tourism Michael Ring yesterday. Please click here for walks 2011 Mayo in Motion Walks Timetable and also her for cycle events 2011 Bike Week Events 18th - 26th June . See here for Mayo News Promotion of the Month 2011 Mayo News Promotion of Mayo in Motion
Jointly facilitated by the Mayo Walking Partnership and Mayo Sports Partnership, the month long initiative aims to promote walking and cycling as a means of physical recreation which can be enjoyed by anybody. Communities, schools, workplaces, individuals are all encouraged to get out there and experience the many walking / cycling trails which have recently being developed.
This year as part of the promotion, Mayo Walking Partnership Group will host its first ever Walking Seminar in the Mulranny Park Hotel on Wednesday the 8th June 2011. This seminar is aimed at groups, individuals interested in walking and trail development. The seminar is also aimed at individuals working in the tourism trade. Ultimately the aim of this initiative is about growing walking within the County for 2011. The key objective is to disseminate information relating to all of the wonderful walking and cycling trails that is now available throughout Co Mayo. To register for this seminar please contact Helen Fadian at the Community & Integrated Development Office at Mayo County Council Tel: 094 9047545 Email: hfadian@mayococo.ie.
For further information on Mayo in Motion contact either Anna Connor Walking Officer Mayo County Council Tel: 094 9047545 Email: aconnor@mayococo.ie or Charlie Lambert Sports Co-ordinator Mayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or clambert@mayococo.ie
Wed, 01 Jun 2011 13:08:00 BSTTeenage Kicks for Mayo Schoolgirls
Over 50 teenage girls from 4 second level schools throughout Mayo met in Castlebar last week to celebrate the completion of the Mayo Sports Partnership led Girls Active Project. The initiative targets girls aged 15 – 17 yrs, who are not involved in regular physical activity, for increased sporting opportunities over the course of the school year. Funded through the Get Ireland Active Programme and the HSE the project has proven to be a big hit with schools with over 200 girls from 10 schools participating. Girls experienced activities such as Zumba Dancing, Boxercise, Bootcamp, exercise to music, yoga, pilates and much more during lunchtime or after school. 
Speaking at the presentation of project completion certificates to all participants at the jamboree day, Mayo Sports Partnership Chairman Cllr Henry Kenny congratulated all concerned and commented it was fantastic to see so many young people going around with smiles on their faces.
“ Sport and physical activity is so important in maintaining a young persons physical and mental health, especially in stressful situations like exams. Interventions such as this project helps to build a young persons self esteem and confidence. ” he added.
The girls from Sacred Heart School Westport, St Josephs Castlebar, St Tiernans College Crossmolina and Colaiste Mhuire Tourmakeady were brought through their paces by instructors Paul O Brien Bootcamp, Adrian Sheerin Boxercise, Lorraine Toner Zumba dance and Donna Rice aerobics. Post event comments from the participants included
“ the project helped me to become more confident” “it helped me to make new friends” and “ the project has encouraged me to take up exercise on a more regular basis”.
Mayo Sports Partnership Sports Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert thanked all the participating schools and paid particular acknowledgement to the coordinating teachers without whose help the project would not have happened.
“ Mayo Sports Partnership would hope to run this initiative again in the next school year and would invite other schools to come on board in providing alternative activity opportunities to girls who may not be motivated” he commented.
To find out more about the project or register an interest please contact Mayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or email msp@mayococo.ie
Wed, 01 Jun 2011 13:23:00 BST
Minister Honours Special Volunteers involved in Sport
31st May 2011, Aviva Stadium: Eleven dedicated volunteers who have made outstanding contributions to sport in Ireland were today honoured by the Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring T.D., at an awards ceremony which took place at the Aviva Stadium.
The ‘National Awards to Volunteers in Irish Sports’, celebrates the contributions of volunteers to Irish sport. There are over 400,000 people throughout the country who voluntarily dedicate their time every year through their involvement with sports clubs and organisations.
The national awards are an initiative of the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport in conjunction with the Federation of Irish Sports, which represents some 68 sports in Ireland. The scheme is also supported by the Community Foundation of Ireland and the Irish Sports Council.
Among the recipients of the awards was Jim Aughney who is responsible for both the establishment and development of the Dublin Marathon and Race Series which now attracts a field of over 11,000, including in excess of 3,000 international participants each year. Brian Craig from Dublin also received an award for the major role he has played in the development of sailing in Ireland, specifically in Dún Laoghaire. The youngest person to receive an award was 24-year old Doireann Ni Mhuiri from Cork, who has been involved in coaching at Blackrock Camogie Club since the tender age of 14.
Also amongst the award winners is Gerry Fleming, Head Coach of Neilstown Boxing Coach, whose involvement with the club started some 31 years ago and who counts Olympic Silver Medalist Kenny Egan amongst the many boxers who have passed through his hands. Speaking about Gerry’s impact on him Egan said:
“Gerry is not only my coach but a great friend. He has pushed so hard in getting Neilstown its own Boxing Club. It has been over 20 years coming and is finally here thanks to the hard work of Gerry and his coaching staff. He has travelled the world supporting me which I am very grateful for and has helped me out anyway he can. I hope one day, when I’m at the end of my career, to take my place in the coaching staff back at the club.”
The award winners were selected by a committee chaired by Olympic Gold Medal Winner, Ronnie Delany, alongside representatives from the Federation of Irish Sports, Irish Sports Council, The Irish Times, RTÉ and the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport.
Speaking at the presentation of the awards Minister Ring said. “The contribution of volunteers in supporting Irish sports people at every level, from when they first engage in sporting activity right through to developing elite athletes, should not be underestimated. Indeed, the army of volunteers who dedicate their time and commitment to each sport in Ireland assist in building strong and healthy communities, while giving everybody the opportunity to be the athletes they are.”
“In presenting these awards today I wish to not only congratulate the 11 volunteers who truly deserve their honours, but I would also like to acknowledge all of the 400,000 people who help to ensure Irish sport is in such a healthy state. Quite simply sport in Ireland wouldn’t function without their incredible efforts, and as a nation we would undoubtedly be worse off.”
Also speaking at the awards, Sarah O’Connor, Chief Executive of the Federation of Irish Sports, said:
“The vast number of hours devoted by volunteers is invaluable to sport in this country, and it is great that we are able to recognise some of the individuals involved here today. It is important that we are aware of the contributions made by so many people who freely offer time and expertise right around the country every week. This voluntary investment has been estimated to have an economic value equivalent of between €322 million and €582 million each year. Even more important however is the reality that without this voluntary investment in sport by so many there simply would not be the same opportunities for the 1.7 million Irish people who actively participate in Irish sport, nor indeed would we have the many success stories that Irish Sport continues to produce year on year.”
The full list of award winners are as follows:
Winner Sport County
Doireann Ni Mhuiri Camogie Cork
Gareth Grundie Hockey Antrim
Gerry Fleming Boxing Dublin
Catherine Murphy Ladies Gaelic Football Cork
Jim Aughney Athletics Dublin
Tony Farrell Swimming Galway
Pam Beacom Special Olympics Wicklow
Breeda Christie Athletics/Community Games Tipperary
Brian Craig Sailing Dublin
Desmond Butler Gaelic Games Dublin
Paddy Walsh Gaelic Games Dublin
Wed, 01 Jun 2011 13:16:00 BSTSports Partnership Grant Scheme Now Closed
The Board of the Mayo Sports Partnership has now closed its Special Participation Grant Scheme for 2011. This scheme invited clubs and organizations who have sport / recreation as their central focus to submit proposals which would increase participation amongst target groups such as youth at risk, disadvantaged communities, unemployed, women, traveling community, disabilities and ethnic minorities. This may include setting up of new clubs or additional activities which would increase participation within existing organizations.
This year a particular focus is being placed on inviting communities / organizations to think about forming a meet and train group for their area.
Initiatives which received funding in the past included a water sports initiative in the Erris Area, setting up community sports clubs, adventure sports opportunities, mass participation programmes in running / walking , new badminton club, cycling initiatives, and the promotion of camogie in Mayo.
Organisations / Groups are asked to note that any capital / building projects are not eligible for funding under the schemes criteria.
Approx € 12,000 in total has been allocated under this years scheme which had a closing date of this Friday May 6th. Maximum which can be allocated to any one project is €1,000 and this is dependent on the quality of the initiative. The Mayo Sports Partnership board will decide on all successful applications and its recommendations are final.
For further information on the scheme contact the Sports Partnership office at 094-9047025 or log on to our website at www.mayosports.ie/news
Mon, 09 May 2011 11:36:00 BSTBike Week 2011 Grants for Community / Sports Groups
Building on the fantastic enthusiasm and participation of groups around the county in Bike Week 2010, Mayo Sports Partnership in conjunction with Mayo County Council is now inviting applications for funding from interested community groups / sports clubs for Bike Week 2011 (18th -26th June) events.If your group is interested in promoting cycling as part of a fun, national programme, this is an ideal opportunity to apply for funding to help deliver your event. Please download the application form by clicking here Bike Week Application Form
Key information points:
· Grants for Community Groups are available up to a potential maximum of €500 per successful community group. Grants allocated to Community Groups form part of the overall maximum of €5,000 available to each Local Authority area.
· Events that will be eligible for grant assistance in 2011 must target outreach to non-cyclists or aspiring cyclists or seek to deliver cycling training – such events must aim to achieve high public visibility and involve the greatest number of people possible.
· For the purposes of these grants, eligible expenditure will include:
Ø Costs involved (either directly or through partners) in organising one or more local fun cycling events for public participation e.g. mass cycle, slow bike race, cycling obstacle course, road race, forest cycle etc
Ø Costs involved in organising public information events on cycling
Ø Cost of free bike check-ups in public areas
Ø Costs of purchase of items such as bikes, lights, locks, bells etc to raffle or give as prizes for participants in events
Ø Costs incurred in provision of cycling training
Ø Costs of complementary activities for event days, e.g. musical entertainment, face painting, novelty bike displays (unicycles, tricycles), electric bike display
Ø Costs relating to publicity for events
For more ideas, see the 2010 photo galleries and event information on www.bikeweek.ie
Application Forms may be obtained by contacting Mayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or email msp@mayococo.ie
Thu, 05 May 2011 11:30:00 BST
4,000 women participate in West of Ireland Womens Mini Marathon
In blistering sunshine and amid a sea of enthusiasm and energy, 4,000 women ran, jogged, walked and strolled the 10km route in the second annual Western People West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon in Castlebar. Undoubtedly, the event was a hugely enjoyable occasion for one and all, with massive credit due to each and every person who played a part in bringing the Mini Marathon to fruition. Special mention must be given to event co-organisers Mayo Sports Partnership and all their team for their impressive professionalism towards the whole event.
On Sunday, May 1, Castlebar was most definitely the place to be as women from all over Mayo, the West and beyond congregated for what was undoubtedly an occasion to remember. On stage, Frank Fahy set the tone of the day as he invited the thousands of participants to come forward and partake in a fun-filled and action-packed warm-up. Castlebar Town Mayor Ger Deere was beaming with excitement as he stood on stage and welcomed the enormous crowd that stood before him. And, when An Taoiseach Enda Kenny stepped onto the stage to wish the women the very best of luck, the welcome he received and the atmosphere all around the Mall was simply electric.
For some, the Mini Marathon was a competitive event, with the best of the best vying for the number one spot. And for Castlebar lady Colette Touhy, Sunday was certainly her time to shine.
A member of Mayo Athletics Club (AC), Colette finished the race in 39 minutes and 27 seconds, earning herself pride of place on the podium. Second on the day was Derval Devaney from Westport, also a member of Mayo AC, who completed the Mini Marathon in 40 minutes and 51 seconds.
Breaffy’s Angela O’Connor (Mayo AC) was third on Sunday with a time of 41 minutes, while Marie Johnston – a native of Cloonacool and running with Sligo AC – finished in 42 minutes and 17 seconds. From Castlebar – and once again running with Mayo AC – Sarah Syron was fifth with a time of 43 minutes and two seconds, while Rosie Hynes from Swinford AC was sixth with a time of 43 minutes and 32 seconds.
Clearly, there were many participants on the day who were out to record a new personal best and perhaps earn themselves a place in the winners’ enclosure. For many more however, the Western People Mini Marathon was just about bringing a group of friends or family members together for a fun day out.
Of course, for the majority of participants, the Mini Marathon represented so much more. It was about raising money for a charity close to their hearts and about giving something back to an organisation that had done so much to make their lives – or the lives of a loved one – that little bit easier.
The inaugural Western People Women’s Mini Marathon in May 2010 was a phenomenal success, with upwards of 3,000 women taking part. This year, the number of entries increased even further and Castlebar was absolutely buzzing on Sunday, as the County Town welcomed visitors from Mayo, various parts of Ireland, and indeed as far afield as the US and Africa.
Organised by the Western People, in association with the team at the Mayo Sports Partnership, the second annual Women’s Mini Marathon created an ideal opportunity for charities across the West to raise much-needed funds for their causes. In 2010, an estimated half a million euro was raised for various charities and no doubt, that figure will have been exceeded this year.
In 2010, the event surpassed all expectations and this year, the Western People West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon did it all over again. From the organisation of the event to the numbers participating and from the volunteerism on the day to the charities benefitting from the event, there’s one thing for certain – the Western People Mini Marathon ticked all the boxes.
Well done to each and every person who played a part on Sunday...here’s to another tremendous occasion in 2012!
Mon, 09 May 2011 11:12:00 BSTSwimming, Personal Exercise and Soccer most popular Sports in Mayo
The Irish Sports Council / ESRI in association with Mayo Sports Partnership recently published an analysis of active participation in sport / exercise amongst adults aged 16 plus for the Mayo / Sligo area. To view the report please click here Mayo - Sligo Participation Report 2011
The study provides a sample of 1,400 as part of a national sample of 27,000 used for the Irish Sports Councils “Sports Monitor” reports from 2007 – 2009.
nteresting findings from the study included;
· Between 2007 and 2009, 26% of adults surveyed in Mayo-Sligo actively participated in sport or recreational exercise during the previous week
· 57% of adults undertook a recreational walk during the previous week
· 19% of adults were effectively sedentary
· Allowing for the demographic profile of Mayo-Sligo, activity levels are in line with national figures
· Swimming (5.6%), personal exercise (5.3%), soccer (3.9%) and Gaelic football (3.7%) are the most popular activities
· Women are less likely to play sport than men, but this gender gap reduces with age and is smaller among single people
· Single men are less likely to play sport than married or cohabiting men – there is no similar effect of partnership for women
· Although less likely than men to play sport, women are more likely to undertake recreational walks, such that they are marginally less likely to be sedentary overall
· 8% of adults volunteered for sport in the previous week, 26% are members of sports clubs and 16% attended a sporting event
“ This study backs up the key policy of the Mayo Sports Partnership in providing physical activity opportunities for groups such as older people through the very successful Be Active 55 Project. The rural nature of the county is such that social connectivity is a huge issue and physical activity can have a role in adding value to it within communities” commented Sports co-ordinator Charlie Lambert.
In 2011 Mayo Sports Partnership plans to pilot a physical activity project in a rural community in Mayo. The involvement by stakeholders such as community activists, schools, community councils, clubs etc will be vial to the success of the initiative. If you would like to learn more about the project please contact Mayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or email msp@mayococo.ie
Fri, 18 Mar 2011 16:59:00 GMTSports Inclusion Disability Programme Spring 2011
A full programme of events has just recently been launched. To view a full listing please click on this link Sports Inclusion Disability Programme of Events January - April 2011 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 21:45:00 GMTSpring 2011 Newsletter now Available
Find out all the up to date news, projects, upcoming events etc of the Mayo Sports Partnership by viewing our Spring 2011 Newsletter by clicking on this link Newsletter Issue 12 Spring 2011 . To obtain a hardcopy or for further information contact the Sports Partnership Office at 094-9047025 Fri, 01 Oct 2010 13:00:00 BSTIrish Sports Council Announces Funding Package of €25.6 million for 2011
National Governing Bodies; €12.1 million· Local Sports Partnerships; €5.7 million . To view county by county allocation please click here LSP Network Funding for 2011
· High Performance; €7.8 million
The Irish Sports Council announced a major funding package for 2011 with a total €25.6 million which will be invested into 57 National Governing Bodies of Sport, including 18 high performance sports, and 32 Local Sports Partnerships.
€7.8 million will be invested in high performance athletes and sports in 2011, the crucial preparatory and qualification period in advance of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This includes €1.95 million under the International Carding Scheme, direct grants to 115 of Ireland’s top athletes including Katie Taylor, Kenneth Egan, Derval O’Rourke, Jason Smyth and Grainne Murphy.
Mr. Kieran Mulvey, Chairman of the Irish Sports Council, announced the funding for the National Governing Bodies of Sport will be €12.1 million and for the Local Sports Partnerships will be €5.7 million. Mr. Mulvey commented; “Investing over €25million in the range of sports this year is a vote of confidence in the Irish sports sector. The Council believes that sport plays a central role in the social and cultural life of Ireland and will play a significant part in the economic recovery”. The Minister for Sport, Mary Hanafin said on-going Government investment is helping deliver a huge variety of sports around the country. “Everyone benefits from participation in sport and the funding being allocated today helps clubs and organisations throughout the country to deliver key services to increase participation and support sportsmen and women. The economic, social and health value of sport is well established and is something that must continue to be recognised, even in difficult economic circumstances. These 89 sports organisations are doing tremendous work nurturing a love of sport in young people and helping increase participation at every level while all the time supporting employment in the sports sector.” €5.8 million is being allocated to 18 high performance sports for the implementation of their Performance Plans. These plans provide a complete programme of support to elite athletes who also benefit directly under the International Carding Scheme. 115 individual athletes and 2 teams benefit under “Carding” this year. Eamonn Coghlan, who chairs the Council’s High Performance Committee commented; “We were determined to maintain high performance funding levels in this critical year. Irish athletes won 30 medals in international championships competition in 2010, an incredible performance that demonstrates the effectiveness of the long term investment strategy of the Council”.
In addition to the activities supported by today’s announcement, the Council will be active in developing the sports sector with national agencies such as Coaching Ireland, the GAA, FAI, IRFU , Olympic Council of Ireland , Paralympics Ireland and Age & Opportunity. Specific funding relevant programmes will be announced later in the year.
Mr John Treacy, Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council, said: “The Council’s research demonstrates that the sports sector generates a significant return to the Exchequer investment by generating economic, social and health benefits. The governing bodies and sports partnerships are the main delivery agencies for sport and they will continue their excellent work in 2011”.
Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:15:00 GMT
Entries now open for West Ireland Womens Mini Marathon
MORE than 4,000 women are expected to take part in this year’s Western People West of Ireland Women’s Mini Marathon.Preparations are now underway for the event, which takes place in Castlebar on Sunday, May 1. The run is for fun but it’s also a big fundraiser for charities. Last year it’s estimated more than €500,000 was raised for good causes.
“And this year we hope even more women will take part and an even bigger sum will be raised for charity,” said Crona Esler, of the Western People, speaking at the launch of the event on Wednesday (January 26) in the council county chamber, Áras an Chontae.
The event was dreamt up by the Western People last year and enthusiastically taken up by the Mayo Sports Partnership. The intention was to create a fun day, encouraging people to get out, get fit and enjoy the company of other women. The 10k race is open to serious athletes, fun runners and walkers. It was also hoped that it could be used by charities to raise money.
“We were staggered: Firstly by the amount of women who wanted to take part and then by the amount of people who were raising money for charity,” said Anne Ronayne, of Mayo Sports Partnership.
Anne revealed that some 60 charities were represented. And she also had one other reason for being proud. Four women took part in the mini marathon over 70 years age. The first one to cross the finishing line in The Mall was Sister Kathleen Hunt ... her sprightly 74-year-old aunt, a Mercy nun in Westport.
Sr Kathleen’s example shows that anyone can and should take part. Entrants must be over 15 years of age. To enter, fill in the form in the Western People or enter online at www.westofirelandwomensminimarathon.com . Entry costs €20.
Thu, 27 Jan 2011 16:27:00 GMT
Breaffy Kingfisher joins Be Active 55 Programme
The Kingfisher Health and Fitness Club situated in the Breaffy House Hotel Complex is the latest centre to join the Be Active 55 programme. Overall 15 centres throughout Mayo provide a tailored programme of activities suited to people aged 55 plus. These activities can include balance /mobilising activities, games, bowls, walking etc.The Kingfisher classes are every Tuesday at 11am and activities include exercise to music, every Thursday at 11am which is a swim pool session.
For each class there is a € 5 fee for non-members and is free for members
Contact the Kingfisher for details: 094 9038585
Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:22:00 GMT
Fit Walk Programme for Aughagower
Are you looking for a new innovative way of getting fit ? Why not try the newly launched Mayo Sports Partnership / Mayo County Council Fit Walk Programme which is delivered by fully qualified fitness / walking instructors. The programme commences in Aughagower Community Centre on Thursday 10th February. Participants are asked to be at the centre at 7.47pm and the session will conclude at 9pm.The overall aim of this programme is to promote Fitness through Walking.
The Programme comprises 5 x 1hr once-weekly sessions delivered in an indoor setting. The key outcomes are that participants will;
- understand the key components of physical fitness and how to get best fitness benefits from walking;
- understand how to use Step Counters and Heart Monitors and their function in getting best fitness benefits from walking;
- be familiar with the techniques of StrideWalking and PowerWalking.
Cost for the 5 week programme will be €25, working out at five euro per class. This fee will cover use of materials and equipment ie Heart Rate Monitors and Step Counters. The group should be about 15 -20 in number.
Places are limited so if you wish to book please contact the Sports Partnership Office at 094-9047025.
Fri, 28 Jan 2011 12:50:00 GMT
Mayo Sports Partnership announces Spring 2011 Events Programme
Child Protection in Sport, Sports First Aid, Sports Leadership Training, Club Development Seminars and Disability Awareness Training are just some of the upcoming sports volunteer training courses which will be available through the Partnership over the coming months. These courses / seminars are aimed at community / sport volunteers, coaches or indeed anyone who may have an interest in sport / physical activity. Download full details here 2011 Spring Training / Events Programme
A fully certified walking leader course is scheduled for the weekend of the 4th ,5th and 6th February and is due to take place in Ballyheane Community Centre. If you are interested in promoting walking in your community then this is the course for you.
Also included in the programme will be the 2nd Western People West of Ireland Womens Mini Marathon taking place on Sunday 1st May. Preparations are well under way with the launch of the event taking place next Wednesday 26th January.
“ Supporting people who are working at grassroots level promoting sport / physical activity in all its forms is a major objective of the Sports Partnership. We will continue to support the invaluable contribution volunteers make to community life” Sports Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert commented.
All courses are subsidized by the Partnership and more details can be got by logging on to www.mayosports.ie/CalendarofEventsTrainingCourses/ or by contacting the office at 094-9047025
Fri, 21 Jan 2011 15:34:00 GMT
Details of Walking n Meet & Train Groups in Mayo
Are you looking to link up with a walking or jogging / running group in the new year? A full listing of all walking & meet n train groups in the county can be obtained by clicking here Mayo Walking & Meet n Train Groups 2011 . Please note that this information is what is known to Mayo Sports Partnership at this time. Contact Anne Ronayne Community Sports Project Worker at 094-9047022 for more details. Mon, 17 Jan 2011 15:36:00 GMTGreat Turnout for Operation Transformation Walk
Despite inclement weather conditions the Mayo leg of the national Operation Transformation walk went ahead last Saturday on the greenway in Westport. Over 100 people, including Mid West Radios Teresa O Malley, participated in the event organised by Mayo Sports Partnership and Mayo County Council.Trained leaders led the participants who were organised into groups based on their level of fitness and ability. All completed the 5K walk and were treated to a welcome cup of tea in the Mill Times Hotel curtsey of proprietor Joe O Malley. Sports Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert and Walking Officer Anna Connor addressed the gathering giving them useful tips and pathways for further opportunities.
As an outcome of the event the group has decided to continue walks on the Greenway every Tuesday & Thursday at 7pm and also Saturdays at 2pm. The meeting point is the Mill St Car Park entrance to the Greenway and all are welcome. People call exercise at their own pace in a social group setting.
The Sports Partnership would like to thank all who participated and assisted with the event including walking leaders, Westport Order of Malta, Mc Hale Caravans, Mayo County Council, Operation Transformation and the Mill Times Hotel.
Further information on walking groups or meet / train networks in Mayo can be got by contacting the Mayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or please click here Mayo Walking & Meet n Train Groups 2011
Mon, 17 Jan 2011 15:21:00 GMTCathaoirleach Launches 2nd Plan for Sport and Physical Activity in Mayo
Mayo Sports Partnership’s 2nd Strategic Plan for sport & physical activity “Promoting an Active Mayo” was launched by the Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Cllr Michael Burke along with the Board of Mayo Sports Partnership and its Chairman Mr
The Strategic Plan was the result of a six month process which commenced in April 2010 with extensive consultations undertaken with those with an interest or remit in sports provision in the county.
Both Cllr Michael Burke and Chairman of Mayo Sports Partnership , Mr
Mayor of Castlebar Cllr Ger Deere also was loud in his praise of local events in Castlebar, which the Partnership was involved in, such as the West of Ireland Womens Mini Marathon and stated the Castlebar Town Councils support for the initiative in 2011.
Acknowledgements were also paid to Mayo County Council for hosting and managing the Sports Partnership over the last number of years.
Copies of the Mayo Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2010—2014 are available by contacting the Sports Partnership on 094-9047025 or to download from www.mayosports.ie/publications .
Mon, 20 Dec 2010 15:59:00 GMT
Hit Westport running with street orienteering
A new sport is about to hit the town ofBoth GMIT and Mayo Sports Partnership have been involved in a number of initiatives to promote the sport of orienteering. The concept of street orienteering in
This is a sport for everyone, aged 8-80, and if you’re fit enough to walk to the shop you can take part. It’s a great way to improve your navigation skills, experience orienteering without having to attend an actual event or to just make a walk that bit more interesting.
Obviously one needs to be able to read a map and run (or walk in the power-walkers section). More advanced competitors will look at much more than the street layout between one control and the next; within minutes of starting they’ve planned a route that minimises the distance they have to run and the hills they have to climb.
It is envisaged the primary usage in
The principle users will be scouts, second level schools, tourists and locals. Westport Town Council is supporting this initiative. The local authority will host a copy of the map and control card on their website.The council will also promote the facility in association with Outdoor Ed Department of GMIT and given will be given to the council and any other businesses willing to host maps on their website.
GMIT will update the courses on the map every 4 months, ensuring the resource may be utilised repeatedly. The college will also take responsibility for mounting the controls around the town. A map with suggested locations will be sent to the council before any work is undertaken. Support is also required from local businesses as some of the control markers may need to be mounted at different locations around the town. A similar initiative is already up and running in
An orienteering map of
The Irish Sports Council allocates €21,965 in sports grants for 52 older people’
52 Older Peoples Groups in Mayo are among 862 groups nationwide to share an allocation of €350,000 under the tenth Go for Life National Grant Scheme for Sport and Physical Activity for Older People. Mary Hanafin T.D., Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport announced details of the allocations under the Go for Life national grant scheme, which aims to help local clubs and organisations to increase opportunities for their older members to actively participate in recreational sport and a range of physical activities. For the full list please click here List of 2010 Go for Life Grants
This year over 1000 applications were received from older people’s groups all over the country. The 862 successful applicants include active retirement associations, senior citizens clubs, ICA guilds, sports clubs, Local Sports Partnerships, day centres and community centres in 26 counties. The grant aid is being used to buy sports equipment and to fund sport and activity programmes. In 2009 an estimated 24,000 older people participated directly in programmes funded by this scheme.
Making the announcement Mary Hanafin, T.D. said " People are staying more physically active and as a result improving their social, mental and physical well-being which in effect leads to substantial savings in health and long term care costs. The grants announced are used by communities across the country in the promotion of physical activity for older people. It also provides another welcome prospect for older people particularly in rural areas to get involved in their locality and feel a lot less isolated. "."
Commenting on the funding to Mayo, which totaled €21,965, Mayo Sports Partnership Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert said he was delighted to see so many groups from Mayo included in the allocation.
“This year an additional 12 groups were included in the scheme which is a sign of increased awareness amongst community groups about physical activity for older people. An increase of almost € 5,000 to the county is good news in this current climate. ”
This years allocation brings to € 3.25 million the amount granted under this scheme to older people’s groups over the last ten years. Mayo Sports Partnership will continue to have older peoples involvement in physical activity as one of its main objectives in 2011. Through its very successful Be Active 55 Programme which is available in 15 Leisure and community Centres throughout the county numerous older people are having fun while taking exercise in a friendly and sociable environment. For more information on this project and other initiatives please contact the Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or log on to www.mayosports.ie
Fri, 03 Dec 2010 17:22:00 GMTIrish Sport Unites to Protect Funding for Sport
Irish sport has once again united in making a submission to Government highlighting the vital role played by Government funding in the development of Irish sport. In a submission made on behalf of everyone involved in Irish sport, the national sporting organisations pointed out the damage that will be done to sport in Ireland if Government was to make drastic cuts in the current funding of sport in this country.Their clear message was that major cuts made today will set Irish sport back for decades to come.
Last year a total of €49.6 million in taxpayer’s money was invested in the development of all Irish sport.
Joining today in making the submission are the GAA, FAI, IRFU, GUI, Olympic Council of Ireland, the Paralympics Council, Special Olympics Ireland and the Federation of Irish Sports (FIS) which represents the governing body of 68 sports in Ireland. All of the sports represented by the FIS have given full backing to the submission.
The submission to Government was presented to the Minister for Sport, Ms Mary Hanafin, earlier today, Thursday, 18 November, by a delegation of sportsmen and sportswomen. Representing Ireland’s sporting community were Paul O’Connell (Rugby), Lar Corbett (Hurling), Katie Taylor (Boxing), Stephen Rice (Soccer), Andrew Bree (Swimming), Claire O’Connor (Camogie), Garrett Culliton (Paralympics) and Robert Deegan (Special Olympics).
The submission document to Government fully acknowledges the difficult economic climate and the challenges for Government in where to invest taxpayer’s money in the next budget. It does make the point, however, that the money invested in sport works at many different levels and has impacts for everyone whether that be in terms of health, the economy, tourism or the very fabric of the community in Ireland.
The submission lists all of the activities made possible by Government funding each year and it also points out that any reduction in such funding is likely to have major effects right across the sporting spectrum.
It also notes strongly that at a time when Ireland’s stock has never been lower internationally that our sports stars continue to be an immense source of pride to Irish people all over the world. It notes that without exception those individual teams that the country is so proud of have all benefited from the funding that the Government has put into Irish sport down through the years. It also notes that the impact of any cuts in funding will not necessarily be felt immediately but will impact on Ireland’s international successes in the decades to come.
In an open letter to Government in the submission the governing bodies make the point that this is about “the positive effects of sport at every level not just to elite participants important as they are to us all. What other aspect of life in Ireland gets 270,000 people to volunteer their time on a weekly basis to ensure that 1.7 million people participate in sport in 12,000 clubs in every parish in Ireland.”
The submission also makes the point that contrary to a popular misconception that sport just happens that nothing could be further from the truth. “Sport as we know it in Ireland today is the result of good planning, enlightened administration and financial investment particularly by the Government on behalf of all taxpayers. That funding is the lifeblood of sport in Ireland and the catalyst for all that follows”.
“It would be difficult to over emphasise just how important the impact of €49.6 million given to sport through the Irish Sports Council. It is the seed capital for activity and an industry worth in excess of €1.8 billion to Ireland each year. It must be remembered that only a small proportion of the Government funding goes to elite performers. Over 80% of the money provided by the Government is invested in sport at grassroots level in creating the programmes that will produce top class athletes and just as importantly help improve the health and well being of our citizens”.
The submission further makes the point that funding for sport has never been more important. “Right across the country clubs at all levels are finding that other sources of funds are drying up. They are finding it increasingly difficult to attract sponsorship, while the subscriptions normally paid by club members are becoming increasingly challenging to collect.”
The submission also makes the point that for every euro invested by the Government the sports themselves invest a further €2. It notes that recent research found that for every €100 invested by Government (both national and local), the return to the Exchequer is €149.
Fri, 19 Nov 2010 10:48:00 GMT
Mayo Play and Recreation Policy Launched
Play and recreation are an important aspect of the lives of children of all ages. They learnfrom these activities, make friends and develop a sense of their personal place in the worldthrough them. Mayo County Development Board and Mayo Local Authorities recognise and value this crucial part of children and young people’s lives and this policy document has been prepared to provide a framework within which to address the play and recreation needsof children and young people in Mayo. To view this policy please click on this link Mayo Play and Recreation Policy 2010 - 2012
This policy has been developed by the Community & Enterprise Directorate of Mayo County Council in consultation with the wide range of agencies represented on Mayo County Development Board including Mayo Sports Partnership, as well as other groups. The document explicitly recognises the need for an interagency and cross-sectoral approach to the development of play and recreation in Mayo, both in terms of infrastructural development and also in terms of efforts to promote participation and to enhance the public perception of the value and importance of play and recreation.
It is hoped that the document can act as a catalyst for the prioritisation of play and recreational activity as one of the central planks of service provision for young people.Much has been achieved in recent years in Mayo and signifi cant progress has been recorded. This policy is now very important because it sets out the strategic approach essential to ensuring that play and recreation remain at the heart of young people’s lives in Mayo.
This policy document also contains a series of actions which have been agreed by a wide range of agencies working in Mayo. The inter-agency nature of many of these actions refl ects the extent to which an integrated approach is required. The delivery of these actions will result in Mayo becoming one of the leading areas inthe Country in terms of valuing the importance of play and recreation andproviding the necessary supports and infrastructure to allow this aspect of children’s lives to flourish.
For more information contact the Community and Enterprise Office, Mayo County Council 094-9047025
Thu, 18 Nov 2010 14:16:00 GMTEconomic Benefit of Sport in Ireland Report
A new Irish Sports Council report highlights how sport contributes significantly to the economy.Irish households spend a total of €1,885.6 million on sport and sport-related goods and services, equivalent to 2% of the overall value of consumer spending in the economy; Sport-related spending contributes €1,830.3 million to Irish economy value-added, equivalent to 1.4% of economy-wide value-added or GDP; Sport and sport-related activities support over 38,000 full-time equivalent jobs, or over 2% of the overall level of employment in Ireland.
To see the report click here Economic Impact of Sport in Ireland 2010
Volunteering plays a key role in Irish sport with an economic value equivalent to between €322 million and €582 million annually. 270,000 people participate in some form of sport-related voluntary activity. The vast majority of the 12,000 sports clubs, across 64 sports and with 1.7 million members, operate on a voluntary basis.
Kieran Mulvey; Chairman of the Irish Sports Council, commenting at the launch of the report stated: "It is the Council's view that the contribution of sport to the Irish economy is not fully appreciated. Government investment plays an important role in supporting and driving the sports sector. This effort, our report demonstrates, brings a very significant financial return to the Exchequer as well as a variety of important economic and social benefits".
The new report, prepared by Indecon International economic Consultants, highlights the return to the Exchequer for the State's investment in sport. For every €100 of government expenditure, the government receives approximately €149 back in the form of taxes and other income arising from sport-related economic activity. Based on figures for 2008, it is estimated that overall (central plus local) government expenditure amounted to €618.3 million. However the government received a total of €922.4 million in revenues from taxes on sport, implying a net income from the sport economy of €304.1 million.
John Treacy, Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council said "Participation in sport brings many benefits in terms of health and wellbeing which in turn produces an economic dividend through reducing costs to the health service. Further, the immense contribution of sport in generating social capital, particularly through voluntarism, is a vital national resource which must be protected".
The economic assessment includes the significant contribution of sport-related tourism in which inflows to Ireland amount to €200.8 million in gross terms, giving rise to €188.6 million in Gross Value Added and supporting almost 3,000 jobs in the domestic economy.
The Indecon report sets out the main direct and indirect economic impacts of sport. It also points to a number of important wider socio-economic benefits which arise from participation in sport and sport-related volunteering.
Through sustaining a healthier population, sport reduces the costs of health service provision; Delivers increased productivity with associated economic benefits; Contributes to social capital and social cohesion arising from participation and volunteering more generally; Community benefits through investment in elite sport and incentivising further participation; Generates financial benefits for the Exchequer through increased economic activity and reduced health service costs.William Batt from Indecon, the lead author of the report stated: "Indecon believes it is important to acknowledge the significant contribution of the sports sector to overall economic activity. Further, it is important for policy to take into account the strong positive return for the Exchequer from sport",
The "Assessment of Economic Impact of Sport in Ireland" was prepared for the Irish Sports Council by Indecon International Economic Consultants in association with Sheffield-Hallam University.
Fri, 12 Nov 2010 12:50:00 GMTCommunity Fit Walk Programme Launched
Is your community looking for new innovative fitness sessions in your local community centre ? Tired of the same old routines ? Why not try the newly launchedThe overall aim of this programme is to promote Fitness through Walking.
The Programme comprises 5 x 1hr once-weekly sessions delivered in an indoor setting. The key outcomes are that participants will;
- understand the key components of physical fitness and how to get best fitness benefits from walking;
- understand how to use Step Counters and Heart Monitors and their function in getting best fitness benefits from walking;
- be familiar with the techniques of StrideWalking and PowerWalking.
Participating communities must have access to an indoor hall, minimum badminton court size, for 1 hour per week for 5 weeks. Cost for the 5 week programme will be €25, working out at five euro per class. This fee will cover use of materials and equipment ie Heart Rate Monitors and Step Counters. The group should be about 20 in number. Classes can also be scheduled in the mornings as well as evening time.
Two communities are to be piloted in this programme over the coming weeks
1. Tourmakeady Community - Every Wednesday Night 8.30pm - 9.30pm. Commencing Wednesday 17th November
2. Shraheens Community Balla - Every Tuesday Night 8pm - 9pm. Commencing Tuesday 16th November
If your community or group is interested in taking up this programme, expressions of interest can be made to the Sports Partnership Office 094-9047025,
Thu, 11 Nov 2010 17:28:00 GMT
Link2BActive Initiative Promotes Participation Among Jobseekers
On Monday 11th October, Minister of State for Labour Affairs Dara Calleary T.D., together with the Mayor of Ballina Cllr Frances Mc Andrew and the Chairman of the Mayo Sports Partnership Henry Kenny launched Link2BActive, a new initiative from the Mayo Sports Partnership that seeks to promote participation among jobseekers in local sporting facilities in the county.
In the last 20 months unemployment levels in Mayo has risen quite dramatically to approximately 13,000. Being unemployed can be a very frustrating experience, is a time of great financial stress and it can drain people of their energy and affect their physical and mental health.
The importance of physical activity for our wellbeing is well known but often the cost of access to physical recreation means that is no longer as freely available, just when it's probably most needed. Mayo Sports Partnership, which was set up in 2004 through funding support from the Irish Sports Council to promote increased participation in sport and physical activity in the community, has decided to try and tackle this problem in a unique way which is being replicated in a number of other counties.
In speaking about the positive nature of the initiative Minister Calleary commented
“ Social connectedness is hugely important, even more so in the current economic climate. Initiatives such as Link2BActive along with other targeted projects led by the Sports Partnership provide opportunities to people who need them most”
With Link2BActive, Mayo Sports Partnership is looking to link in job seekers with the local facilities such as gyms, leisure centres, all weather pitches, golf clubs and other facilities where, coincidently, pressure is also on from people dropping off due to economic constraints.
It has asked local sports providers to come up with an offer, complete with terms and conditions, for the use of their facilities by jobseekers. Mayo Sports Partnership has developed a page on its website www.mayosports.ie/ProgrammesGrants/Link2BActive/ with all the links to these facility offers. The Partnership has now printed 5,000 promotional flyers with this information about the programme aims and the website details which will be distributed through social welfare offices, general practitioners'services, community centres, libraries and more in the county to inform jobseekers about the programme.
Mayo Sports Partnership and the Mayo County Development Board has covered the cost of the promotional materials and the development of the programme, so for the facilities there is only a possible opportunity cost of having to offer a lower rate to users who are unemployed. The onus on management for visitor usage falls on the facilities themselves.
"We see this as a very sustainable programme with limited costs that hopefully will grow and grow in the coming months" says Mr Charlie Lambert Sports coordinator of the Mayo Sports Partnership.
For more details on the Link2BActive programme please contact:
Mayo Sports Partnership, Mayo County Council, Castlebar, Co Mayo,
T: 094-9047025, E-mail: msp@mayococo.ie
Fri, 15 Oct 2010 13:00:00 BSTHANAFIN LAUNCHES 2010 IRISH SPORT VOLUNTEERS AWARDS
Say ‘Thank You’ to your local sports club volunteers
Mary Hanafin T.D., Minister for Sport, paid tribute to the great tradition of volunteerism in Irish sport when she officially launched the 2010 National Awards to Volunteers in Irish Sport.
“Every Irish sporting success is founded on the collective dedication of the more than 400,000 Irish men and women that every year give of their time voluntarily to ensure that Irish children are introduced to the wonderful world of sport,” said Minster Hanafin.
“These awards are given in recognition of the amazing work done by volunteers across every sporting code in our country. There is an enormous amount of support given to clubs and their members by volunteers doing a variety of roles ranging from coaching and managing teams, helping with facilities or refreshments to running committees or raising the profile of their club locally or through the media.”
This is the third year of the National Awards to Volunteers in Irish Sport, which is an initiative by the Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport in conjunction with the Irish Sports Council and Federation of Irish Sports, which represents some 68 sports in Ireland. The first awards were presented in 2007 and last year almost 200 volunteers were nominated for the awards.Members of the public are invited to nominate an individual whose contribution to their club has made a real difference and to give a short citation on the person nominated. From all the nominations received from the public ten winners will be selected to receive an award. An Overall or Lifetime award to honour a volunteer, who has consistently given of their time for a sport, a team, or an event over many years, will also be awarded. Full details of the scheme and how to enter can be found on line at www.volunteersinsport.ie. The website includes a nomination form and guidelines for the 2010 awards. Nominations can be made by clubs, individuals or sporting bodies.
Charlie Lambert, Sports Co-ordinator of the Mayo Sports Partnership noted the involvement of volunteers in sport throughout the county and that the scheme was a clear signal to the many volunteers that their commitment was being recognised.
“Mayo has a proud history of sporting involvement which would not have been possible without the unselfish dedication of thousands of volunteers at all levels. We are lucky that here in Mayo two outstanding examples of the above, namely Eric Reilly from Erris Utd (2007) and Jimmy Corbett Carnacon Ladies GAA (2009), have been successful under the scheme. Hopefully we can continue this trend” said Lambert.
The deadline for nominations for the 2010 National Awards to Volunteers in Irish Sport is Tuesday, 30th November.
For further information, please contact:Hilda Maguire, Federation of Irish Sports, 016251155
Greg Keane, WHPR (01) 6690030 / 087 6601908
Tue, 26 Oct 2010 13:51:00 BSTMinister Hanafin Launches Major Research Study on Children's Participation in Sp
The Irish Sports Council has just published a major research study which provides a national database of physical activity, physical education and sport participation levels of children and youth in Ireland. To view the report please click on this link http://www.irishsportscouncil.ie/Research/CSPPA_Study/The_Childrens_Sport_Participation_and_Physical_Activity_Study.html
The study found high engagement with sport and physical activity in 2009 as follows:
83% of primary school students engage in sport outside school, up 2% on 2004 63% of primary school students participate in Extra Curricular Sport, up 1% on 200431% of primary school students walked or cycled to school, up 5% on 2004 64% of post primary students participate outside of school, down 6% on 2004 73% of post primary pupils participate in Extra Curricular Sport, up 3% on 2004 40% of post primary children are cycling or walking to school, up 10% on 2004
74% of primary and 73% post primary pupils participate in a combination of extra-curricular and extra-school sport or physical activity on at least two days per week. This means sport is very important in terms of helping children and youth reach their physical activity goals. Overall this represents a very high percentage of engagement with sport in both the school and community context. It highlights the contribution of coaches, sports development officers, PE Teachers and volunteers, both in the school and community setting, in ensuring children are given opportunities to be active.
The levels of activity are positive against a worrying international context of decreasing participation in overall physical activity levels.
The research shows that the issues of age and gender remain major determinants of participation in sport. Girls are less likely than boys to meet nationally recommended physical activity guidelines and participation rates fall as children get older. While significant sport is delivered informally in school only 35% of primary pupils and 10% of post primary pupils receive the recommended minutes of Physical Education per week.
Minister Hanafin launched the report at the opening of the All Island Conference which has as its central theme the issue of increasing participation in sport. "This new research shows encouraging results for children's participation in sport. We are seeing the benefit of the work on the ground of development officers with teachers, coaches and volunteers in supporting increased participation in sports such as gaelic games, soccer and rugby. Allied to this Local Sports Partnerships are working with schools through providing programmes such as Buntús, a resource to support teachers deliver the PE curriculum.
The research also shows there remains a clear challenge to keep young people, especially girls, engaged in active sports through their teens. The key message is to use every opportunity to get and keep children and young people active through a combination of participation in school and extra school activities, through involvement in local clubs and in quality active leisure time with their family and friends."
The health enhancing properties of physical activity are well established. The current research reinforces this strongly. It finds that the more active children are, the healthier they are. Overall 19% of primary and 12% of post primary pupils meet the national physical activity guidelines of 60 minutes of daily moderate to vigorous physical activity, unchanged since 2004. The children who reach or are close to the recommended levels play more sport. Therefore, the more sport children play the more active they are and, consequently, the healthier they are.
It is particularly notable that the rate of Active Travel has increased. The numbers walking to school have increased dramatically and, while the number cycling to school is still low, the reported change on Active Travel is encouraging as it is not subject to the same gender and age influences.
The report makes the sole recommendation to increase participation in physical activity among children. To support that overall goal it sets a series of specific targets under the headings of General Physical Activity, Physical Education, Extra School Sport, Extra-Curricular Sport, Active Travel and Sedentary Behaviour.
The Children in Sport Participation and Physical Activity Study is a unique multi-centre study undertaken by Dublin City University, University of Limerick and University College Cork. It brought together expertise from physical education, sport and coaching studies and physical activity and is the most robust and comprehensive report of its type ever conducted in Ireland. .
Dr Catherine Woods, speaking on behalf of all of the authors said:"We want to thank everyone who participated in the study. It has produced priceless information which will inform future policy and practice that can result in many more young people taking part in health enhancing physical activity. As a first step we will prepare relevant information and materials for every school in Ireland. "
The Children's Sport Participation and Physical Activity is designed as a follow-up to the 2005 ESRI "School Children and Sport in Ireland" study. The Irish Sports Council commissioned and published both of these reports as part of its research programme which has a specific emphasis on understanding and evaluating participation in sport in Ireland.
John Treacy, Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council, commented: "The Children in Sport Participation and Physical Activity Study provides a wealth of detail on this hugely important issue. It reinforces many of the key outcomes of the 2004 research and again highlights contribution of sport to the health and wellbeing of our children. The Council will is committed to specific programme responses to the targets set in the research".
Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:42:00 GMTGive your views on Upcoming Plan for Sport in Mayo
As part of developing a new strategic plan for 2010 - 2014, Mayo Sports Partnership are calling all people who may have an interest in sport to engage in a public consultation process. You can view the plan by clicking here Sports Partnership Draft Strategy 2010 - 2014 . Any comments on the plan can be made by e-mailing the Sports Partnership at msp@mayococo.ie
Two public meetings are planned over the coming weeks and all are invited to participate. Ballina Sports and Leisure Complex will host the first meeting on Monday 4th October at 8pm with a second meeting taking place the following Monday, the 11th, in Ballyheane Community Centre also at 8pm.
The partnership is looking for representatives from all strands of community life to attend including sports clubs, community groups, disadvantaged, women, people with a disability, ethnic minorities, unemployed, older people etc. Meetings will conclude at the latest 9.30pm and refreshments will be served afterwards.
“ The success of the first plan from 2006-2009, with 95% of actions delivered on, was down to the brilliant contribution of all stakeholders in the county. We need as many as possible to contribute to the process in order to build on the great work which has already taken place” added Lambert.
If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute to the process you can also air your views by writing in directly to the Partnership at the following address Mayo Sports Partnership, Mayo County Council, Castlebar, Co. Mayo
Tel: 094-9047025
Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:50:00 BST
New Schedule of Be Active 55 Classes Announced
Are you aged 55+ and looking for something to do?Do you want to feel fitter, have fun, have more energy and meet new people? If you do why not get involved in the Be Active 55 Initiative a project designed specially for you.A full timetable of classes for the county is available by clicking here Be Active 55 Autumn 2010 Schedule. Why not give it a go!
he Mayo Sports Partnership, H.S.E. West, Go for Life and leisure / sports centres in Mayo have joined forces in an initiative to get over 55s more active, more often.
Participants can ‘come and try’ activities such as mobilisers, fun fit, social activities, bowling, games, movement for life, balance activities, exercise to music and much more. You will meet new people, have a bit of craic, take some exercise and have a chat with a cuppa afterwards . It’s a win, win, win situation all round.
Is there any cost? . The price of the class will be €5 which will also cover a cup of tea for participants.
To find out more about the Project you can contact the Health Promotion Services of the HSE at 094 9042589 or Mayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025.
Thu, 30 Sep 2010 15:32:00 BSTMayo Sports Partnership 2009 Annual Report
The board of the Mayo Sports Partnership are delighted to welcome its 3rd Annual Report using the SPEAK evaluation system commissioned by the Irish Sports Council in 2007. To down load the report please click here 2009 Mayo Sports Partnership Annual Report
The report allows us to share best practice, monitor trends and address areas for improvement and enables us to have a greater awareness and understanding of the challenges we face.
Despite the economic challenges, the Partnership has been able to deliver to a wide range of courses and programmes across the target groups including those in disadvantaged communities and people with a disability. There were also significant numbers involved in the Buntús programmes and Code of Ethics training, while 5 projects were conducted locally through the Women in Sport initiative and 45 local projects facilitated by Sports Partnership involvement.
Following the increased demand to deliver programmes and support for those who have become unemployed, training programmes such as the FAIs Goal to Work initiative is being pioneered with further development in 2010. In addition, the continued delivery of sporting opportunities to people with a disability through the Sports Inclusion Disability Officer underlines the Partnerships commitment to deliver on Government priorities.
The continuing commitment by the Irish Sports Council, Mayo County Council and other partners towards providing financial and in kind resources for the Partnership is very much appreciated by the board. In these current difficult economic times it is heartening to see that quality of life is still high on national and local political agendas. It is at times like these when the social fabric of society needs to be strengthened and sport is a fantastic tool towards this end.
The Sports Partnership board would again like to take the opportunity to invite all statutory, community and voluntary groups with an interest in increasing participation to link in with the Partnership locally. The benefits the Local Sports Partnership bring to areas such as health, education and social inclusion cannot be underestimated particularly in these challenging times.
Finally, the board of the Mayo Sports Partnership would like to again thank all of those who have contributed to the report and who have delivered programmes, projects and training through the organisation over the last year.
_________________ __________________
Henry Kenny Charlie Lambert
Chairman Sports Co-ordinator
Mayo Sports Partnership Mayo Sports Partnership
Mon, 20 Sep 2010 16:23:00 BST
Hanafin Appoints Kieran Mulvey as Chair of Irish Sports Council
Mary Hanafin TD, Minister for Tourism, Culture & Sport today (16th September 2010) announced the appointment of Mr Kieran Mulvey as the new Chairman of the Irish Sports Council (ISC) for a 5 year term.
The ISC, which is funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture & Sport, is responsible for planning, leading and co-ordinating the sustainable development of sport in Ireland. Since its foundation in 1999, the Council has been allocated funding of €415.6m, including €49.6m for 2010.
Kieran Mulvey has been Chief Executive of the Labour Relations Commission since 1991. He has served on a number of public bodies including the Independent Radio and Television Commission, the National Economic and Social Council and the Governing Bodies of UCD and DCU. He is a former General Secretary of the Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland (ASTI) and Irish Federation of University Teachers (IFUT). Mr Mulvey has also acted as a Consultant with the EU and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) on matters relating to public management, human resources and industrial relations. He recently chaired the negotiations which led to the Public Service “Croke Park Agreement”. He has had a lifelong interest in Irish Sport and he has on occasion made himself available to assist various sporting bodies resolve issues of contention.
Minister Hanafin said "I am delighted that Kieran Mulvey has agreed to become Chair of the Irish Sports Council. I am sure that his wide range of skills and experience will be of tremendous value to the Irish Sports Council as it works with the National Governing Bodies of Sport to increase participation in sport, improve standards of performance and ensure that best practice is followed in management, governance and operating procedures at all levels of Irish sport.
Minister Hanafin thanked the outgoing chairman Mr Ossie Kilkenny. "I want to express my appreciation to Ossie Kilkenny for his contribution to Irish sport during his time as Chair of the Council, a period in which improvements have been made in many key areas, including the roll out of garda vetting, improved strategic planning throughout the sports sector and the completion of the roll out of Local Sports Partnerships”, she said.
Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:28:00 BSTMayo Sports Partnership announces Autumn / Winter 2010 Events Programme
Mayo Sports Partnership announces Autumn / Winter 2010 Events Programme
Child Protection in Sport, Sports First Aid, Sports Leadership Training, Club Development Seminars and Disability Awareness Training are just some of the upcoming sports volunteer training courses which will be available through the Partnership over the coming months. These courses / seminars are aimed at community / sport volunteers, coaches or indeed anyone who may have an interest in sport / physical activity. Please click on this link to see timetable Autumn / Winter 2010 Programme of Events
“ Supporting people who are working at grassroots level promoting sport / physical activity in all its forms is a major objective of the Sports Partnership. We will continue to recognize the invaluable contribution volunteers make to community life by offering subsidized sports education to the best of our ability.” Sports Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert commented.
Included in the comprehensive schedule are some primary school and pre-school teacher training in the Buntús Programme which has proven to be a tremendous success throughout the county.
All courses are subsidized by the Partnership and more details can be got by logging on to www.mayosports.ie/CalendarofEventsTrainingCourses/ or by contacting the office at 094-9047025
Also as part of developing a new strategic plan for 2010 - 2014, Mayo Sports Partnership are calling all people who may have an interest in sport to engage in a public consultation process. Two public meetings are planned over the coming weeks and all are invited to participate. Ballina Sports and Leisure Complex will host the first meeting on Monday 4th October at 8pm with a second meeting taking place the following Monday, the 11th, in Ballyheane Community Centre also at 8pm.
The partnership is looking for representatives from all strands of community life to attend including sports clubs, community groups, disadvantaged, women, people with a disability, ethnic minorities, unemployed, older people etc. Meetings will conclude at the latest 9.30pm and refreshments will be served afterwards.
“ The success of the first plan from 2006-2009, with 95% of actions delivered on, was down to the brilliant contribution of all stakeholders in the county. We need as many as possible to contribute to the process in order to build on the great work which has already taken place” added Lambert.
If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute to the process you can log on to www.mayosports.ie/news and give your comments on the future plans. You can also air your views by writing in directly to the Partnership at the following address Mayo Sports Partnership, Mayo County Council, Castlebar, Co. Mayo Tel: 094-
Fri, 10 Sep 2010 17:11:00 BST
Badminton Ireland Launches Primary and Secondary School Programmes
Badminton Programmes for Schools
Badminton Ireland is committed to providing all young people with the opportunity to take part in badminton and to helping schools provide their students with the opportunity to participate.
Did you know that badminton is one of the most popular sports in Ireland? It's a sport that you can play throughout your life, both socially and competitively and it's also one of the few sports with equal participation of both sexes. Some Schools leagues and competitions start early in September so make sure your entries are in to the Local organisers on time!
Need EQUIPMENT? Contact us - we can source kitbags, rackets, shuttles etc.!
Badminton Ireland Secondary Schools Programmes
Badminton for Schools Partnership Badminton Transition Year Module Badminton Leaving Cert Applied ModuleBadminton Basics
Badminton for Schools Partnership
For an annual fee of just €75, you can register your school now and sign up for the following benefits:
Teacher-training day with qualified coaches Introduction to badminton session in your school Badminton information starter pack Access to coaching, technical advice and information on badminton Information on BI events
Badminton Transition Year & Badminton Leaving Certificate Applied Programmes
Our most popular programme for TY's is the Transition Year Programme. This programme gives each student a knowledge of the basic fundamentals of the game as a lifelong sport with the potential to enhance the students education and future sports and recreation experience. The Leaving Cert Applied programme is very similar and is designed to include project work for the participants. The programmes are based on a 6-week coaching course - 1.5 hours each week (includes 15mins of theory). PE Teachers must have completed a BI Introductory Coaching course or above; if not, we can source a coach for you (€150 for 6-weeks) however be sure to contact us first as coaches availability are dependent on where your school is situated.
For an annual fee of €75(no coach) or €225 (with coach), we provide the following:
Teachers/Coaches Pack with suggested timetable and cross curricular possibilities Students Pack A copy of the Laws of Badminton Introductory Coaching Manual Help with locating a coach in your area should your PE teacher have not yet completed the Introduction to Badminton Coaching course BI Certificate for all students upon completion - Pass, Merit or Distinction based on effort, progress and attendance (decided by teacher/coach).Badminton Basics
The Badminton Basics programme is a coaching programme and is specifically designed to enable Teachers and TY/5th year students to deliver basic badminton skills to local primary school children and 1st-2nd year Students in their own school. The participants will be given a 6 hour workshop on how to coach badminton basics and must then use these skills by coaching some sessions within their school. The students are then encouraged to run a competition blitz day.
There are four key elements to the Badminton Basics Programme:
The Badminton Basics Coaching Course The Badminton Basics Handbook The Badminton Basics DVD Badminton Basics Transition Year Student Log/JournalFurther details and application form
The South Inishowen School Completion programme has taken part in this programme for the past 2 years & Cork Sports Partnership has joined forces with BI to deliver this programme to 10 schools in ‘09/’10.
The All Ireland Secondary Schools Badminton Finals day is held every March/April and has more than 180 children taking part in what is one of the most exciting junior sporting events in the calendar. This is the culmination of a full season of competitions, blitzes and leagues throughout the counties and provinces with all winners (and some runners-up) qualifying for the Finals Day! For provincial and local organisers contacts please see Schools Flyer or e-mail schools@badminton.ie This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Primary Schools Programmes
Badminton for Schools Partnership (as for secondary schools above) First Badminton Buntús Badminton
First Badminton
The First Badminton Certificate is a 4-week coaching course for students administered by Badminton Ireland to encourage players at the first stage of development. Teachers, who have completed their Introduction to Badminton Coaching award/are a Badminton Ireland coach, or a BI Level 1 coach can both complete the 4 week (40mins-1 hour per week) coaching sessions with the students and they in turn receive their certificate upon completion. (The times and weeks can be altered to suit the class timetable and size.)
Students must successfully complete activities under the following 5 headings:
Keeping it Hot - encourages players to attempt racquet skills Throwing Well - encourages players to develop their overarm action Smooth Mover - encourages players to develop good footwork patterns for movement around the court Slick Serving - encourages players to learn how to serve Rally On - encourages players to keep a rally goingCerts cost 75cent/50p each. BI Level 1&above Coaches are approximately €25ph depending on distance travelling.
First_Badminton_Application_Form.pdf
Buntús Badminton in association with the Local Sports Partnership Network
Buntús Badminton is now available as a follow on option to schools that have successfully completed the generic Buntús programme (please contact your LSP for further details). Buntús Badminton aims to train teachers to deliver the basic skills required for badminton in a fun, safe and organized way. Teachers are given a 2-hour Workshop in which they have the opportunity to learn basic skills and fun co-ordination games that can be used in any primary school PE space. Each school gets equipment for the scheme in their school and are encouraged to utilise the Badminton Ireland Introductory Coaches manual. If schools are interested in taking part in this programme who are not involved with their LSP, please contact us to discuss details.
Since 2007 Badminton Ireland, the Irish Sports Council and the Local Sports Partnerships have successfully brought the Buntús Badminton programme to 339 schools and trained up 973 teachers.
Is your primary school interested in friendly matches or competitions? Juvenile Tournaments take place in all provinces.
Check out their calendars via their websites: http://www.badmintonireland.com/index.php/county/522-county-association-contact-information.html
Badminton Ireland runs Coaching Courses regularly during the season. Please check our website and contact us to place your name on our information list.
Any Queries to schools@badminton.ie This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:17:00 BSTMayo Cycle for Fun Series 2010
Mayo Cycle for Fun Series 2010Looking for a fun way to get fit, meet new people, have more energy and explore beautiful Mayo?
Cycling is fast becoming one of the most popular forms of recreational physical activity. This summer Mayo Sports Partnership in conjunction with the Irish Sports Council, Western Lakes Cycling Club, North Mayo Cycling Club, Castlebar Cycling Club and the Covey Wheelers Cycling Club in Westport are inviting families and anyone who would like to try cycling as a fun physical activity to participate in the Mayo Cycle for Fun Series 2010.
Both North Mayo and Castlebar Cycling Clubs will commence their activities this Sunday 4th July with the others timetabled in August and September.
Participants will need a bicycle and a helmet but if you do not have access to this equipment and would like to take part please contact the local organiser as they may be able to arrange some bike hire on the day. Loose clothing and a drink would also be useful . However all groups will provide some refreshments as part of the event.
A small entry fee may vary from event to event however it will cost no more than €2 per child and €5 per adult with a flat charge of €5 per family. Funds raised this way will go towards the local clubs costs in organising the event.
It is recommended that all participants should be aged 10 or over as of the 30/06/2010. All children must be accompanied by an adult / parent. Please contact the local organiser to confirm this as individual clubs may differ on policy in this regard.
If you are interested in participating all you have to do is to contact the local organiser of the event. You should also fill out an application form which should be presented to the organisers on the day of the event. These forms and further information is availble by clicking on this link: Mayo Cycle for Fun Series 2010
So go on get out there and “Set your Wheels in Motion”
Fri, 25 Jun 2010 16:51:00 BST
Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival
Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival takes place from August 19-22:
The Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival is a new community driven festival supported by Westport Chamber of Commerce, Destination Westport, Gael Force, Mayo County Council , Mayo Sports Partnership, FÁS, and Fáilte Ireland. The Westport Adventure Festival will run over four days (Thursday, Aug. 19-Sunday, Aug. 22, 2010). Please click here for poster
Award-winning Westport is fast becoming a central point for adventure and outdoor activity. The Westport Adventure Get Out There Festival turns the whole town into a series of adventure points, each featuring a different adventure sport or activity. Many encourage visitors to actually try the sport for themselves, others are demonstrations. The festival includes activities for children, teens and adults, both with and without experience. As the name suggests, it’s all about getting out there and trying something new. Examples of adventure activities on offer are Archery, BMX Biking, Kayaking, Scuba Diving, Sailing and Street Orienteering.
Festival Highlights:
· The festival will culminate in a family fun day filled with activities supported by local sports clubs and co-ordinated by the Mayo Sports Partnership. All community based organizations will have an opportunity to engage both local and visitor support and encourage trying a new sport and even joining a club. There will be an activity for every member of the family to enjoy.
· Global adventurer Joe Simpson will be the 2010 Festival Ambassador. Simpson’s dramatic account of being left for dead after a fall in the Andes was made into the BAFTA winning film “Touching The Void”. The film is the most successful documentary in British cinema history and charts Simpson’s struggle for survival with a shattered leg, after being cut loose by a fellow climber. It is based on his bestselling book of the same name. A special screening will take place on the opening night of the Festival (Thursday, August 19).
· Seán McGowan, who last month became the first Irishman to row solo across the Atlantic will receive the inaugural Outstanding Adventure Achievement Award.
· WEE Adventure Film Festival is teaming up with the Westport Adventure Festival to bring adventure films, from both Irish and International filmmakers to Westport. This year features “The Best of the WAFF – 3 years of Adventure” with a programme that includes Q&A sessions with film directors; a judging panel led by Joe Simpson and an audience voting system for the best adventure film.
· The Westport Adventure Festival runs alongside the Gaelforce West Adventure Race (Saturday, August 21), the largest one day adventure race of its kind in the world. It’s a complete sellout for 2010 with 3,000 participants racing over the 65km stretch from glorious Glassilaun Beach to the finishing line at the Quay, Westport.
For more informationContact: Orla O'Malley, Project Manager, Westport Get out There Adventure FestivalMobile: 086 807 5383 Email: orlaomalley67@gmail.com
Website: www.westportadventurefestival.ie
Fri, 23 Jul 2010 15:02:00 BSTDirectory of Summer Camps in Mayo 2010
Directory of Summer Camps in MayoMayo Sports Partnership has compiled this resource as a source of information for those wishing to make contact with organisers of Sports Camps around Mayo. Inclusion in this directory is not an indicator of the quality or value of the camp. All camps listed are independently run and all related queries should be directed to the camp contact as listed. The directory includes details of courses / camps known to us at this moment and time. This directory can be viewed by clicking here Summer Camps 2010
However the Partnership would recommend that parents should enquire with summer camp organisers do they have a Children’s Officer and have they attended a Code of Ethics and Best Practice in Sport Awareness Course. These courses are organized by Mayo Sports Partnership on an ongoing basis and can be booked by contacting the Partnership Offices at 094-9047025
Tue, 08 Jun 2010 11:50:00 BSTHanafin Launches Sports Partnership National Annual Report
Hanafin Launches Sports Partnership National Annual Report
At a meeting of the Sports Partnerships in Tullamore, Co Offaly, Minister Hanafin launched the 2009 SPEAK Report, the evaluation mechanism that tracks the activities of the Partnerships year on year. Among the many highlights were that 112,000 people participated in 744 directly delivered participation programmes and 3,500 clubs were supported in the delivery of their sports activities. To download a copy of the report please click here 2009 Local Sports Partnerships Annual Report
Addressing representatives of Sports Partnerships from around the country at the meeting in Tullamore, Minister Hanafin said “the work of the people in Local Sports Partnership network, who operate in conjunction with the many clubs and volunteers, is to promote and develop participation in sport in every community in Ireland. They specifically focus on increasing participation in sport amongst sectors of society that have traditionally been underrepresented including groups such as older people, women, people with disabilities and unemployed people. It is a simple concept and one that has worked very well over the past 10 years. Their efforts are making a substantial contribution to the health and welfare of individuals and communities.”
Minister Hanafin said that the SPEAK report for 2009 indicates that hundreds of schools, thousands of clubs and tens of thousands of people are directly benefitting from the work of the LSP in their communities. The Sports Inclusion Development Officers sanctioned by the ISC to continue working in 2010 will assist in making “a practical difference to the lives of very many people who have found barriers to their engagement in sport.”
John Treacy, Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council, commented: “The national network of Sports Partnerships continues to do outstanding work in every community in the country. The SPEAK Report highlights their work in 2009 which includes new and innovative programmes for people whose economic circumstances have changed in recent times. It also highlights the contribution of the Sports Inclusion Disability Offices who are having a direct and beneficial impact on the lives of many people”.
The national network of Local Sports Partnerships now comprises 32 organisations. The first partnerships were established in 2001 and the national network was completed in 2008. Their remit is to increase participation in sport and physical activity within their local area with a particular emphasis on communities which face barriers to engaging in sport such as older people, women, people with a disability. The Irish Sports Council will invest a total of €6.3million in the network in 2010. Council funding will accounts for approximately 48% of the total Partnership funding. The remaining 52% is raised from a range of partners including Local Authorities and the Health Service Executive. It is anticipated that overall investment in 2010 will equal that of 2009 which exceeded €12.6million.
Additional Information from
Paul McDermott Irish Sports Council 1087-6486295
Declan Lee OHC 01-6602744
Tue, 01 Jun 2010 17:01:00 BSTHanafin announces Funding for Sports Partnership Network and SIDO Project
Hanafin Announces €6.3 million Sports Partnership Funding for 2010
Sports Inclusion Disability Officer programme extended into 2010
The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sports Mary Hanafin T.D. recently announced the Irish Sports Council’s funding package for the national network of Sports Partnerships. The 32 Partnerships have been allocated almost €6.3 million in funding in 2010 and this will be matched by revenue from other sources bringing the total invested in local participation initiatives through the Partnerships to more than €12.5 million in 2010. To view the full details of Sports Partnership Funding please click here 2010 Sports Partnerships Funding and for SIDO allocations please click here 2010 SIDO Programme Funding
25 Initiatives funded through Annual Grant Scheme
25 SPORTING INITIATIVES TO RECEIVE FUNDING THROUGH
SPORTS PARTNERSHIP GRANT SCHEME
At a recent Mayo Sports Partnership Board meeting almost €19,000 was allocated to 25 clubs / organisations throughout Mayo under the Partnerships Special Participation Project Initiative Scheme 2010. In announcing the funding Chairman of the Sports Partnership Cllr Henry Kenny complimented the Partnership on its work in fostering such community based initiatives
“ In the current environment physical activity initiatives which support those who need it most are crucial to maintaining social fabric in society” Cllr Kenny stated.
The aim of the Sports Partnership is to increase participation in sport and it is envisaged that all projects will help to do just that particularly in disadvantaged sectors of the population.
“This scheme is all about increasing opportunities for participation in target sectors of the population such as people with disabilities, children, disadvantaged, ethnic minorities, women and the travelling community” stated Sports Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert.
The Partnership which comprises of interested agencies, Sports and Community Forum representatives, is funded by the Irish Sports Council and is a sub-office of the Mayo County Development Board. For funding under this scheme applicants need to show that the suggested project will increase participation and is sustainable.
As well as funding mainstream sports, this year the scheme has funded initiatives ranging from community based water sports, start up of new clubs, water safety and development of minority sports.
Since 2005 the Partnership has brought an overall investment of € 2.5 million to developing sport and recreation within the county. Many projects / initiatives involving pre-schools all the way up to older people have benefited from this significant investment mainly through the Irish Sports Councils direct funding. The above figure does not include the very significant input of partner agencies on the board such as Mayo County Council, Mayo VEC, HSE West, GMIT, Leader Companies, Udaras na Gaeltachta, Mayo Education Centre and other stakeholders.
Any further information on the above can be obtained by contacting Mayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or by logging on to www.mayosports.ie
The full list of Clubs/Organisations who received funding can be viewed by clicking here SPG 2010 List of Successful Groups / Clubs
Fri, 21 May 2010 15:47:00 BST
Achill Outdoor Adventure Day a Huge Success
Achill Outdoor Adventure Day a Huge Success
The first Outdoor Adventure Day for people with a disability organised by Mayo Sports Partnerships Disability Officer Ray Mc Namara took place on the 21st April 2010 in Achill.
The day started off wonderfully as the 61 participants descended on the Achill Outdoor Education Centre the Achill sunshine brightened up the already excited faces of the participants. There they were greeted by staff of the Centre and students of GMIT. Participants had then a choice of activities to choose from Surfing, Sailing, Open Boating, Kayaking and Hill walking.
The groups with their leaders and helpers went in different directions to take part in activities of their choice. Participants then came together for lunch and could choose from Archery, Climbing Wall, Environmental Beech Combing and Hill Walking for the afternoon. Participants with disabilities such as physical, learning, visually impaired all took part and had a great day.
Special thanks to PWDI for their support in funding the event. Tim Daly and staff of the Achill Outdoor Centre and to Kevin O Callaghan and all the Students of GMIT who helped out on the day. GMIT added a disability module to its course where students completed disability awareness training, training on how to deal with people with a disability in an outdoor setting. They also had to help organise the Outdoor Adventure Day and helping people take part in the activities on offer.
For more information on opportunities for people with a disability to participate in sport and recreation please contact Ray at 094-9047023 or log on to www.mayosports.ie/DisabilitySport/
Fri, 07 May 2010 11:48:00 BST
Sunshine and party atmosphere greets mini marathon
Sunshine and party atmosphere greets mini marathonIt was a day to remember in Castlebar last Sunday as thousands of women, runners and walkers, took over the picturesque Mall for the West of Ireland Womens Mini Marathon. Organised by the Western People and the Mayo Sports Partnership, the event surpassed even the most optimistic expectations with more than 3,000 ladies setting off on the 10 kilometre journey from the centre of Castlebar to Turlough village and back to the Mall. The party atmosphere on the day was further enhanced by the sunshine as family members came out in support of mothers, grandmothers, sisters and daughters who were participating in the event. The overall winner was Sligo woman Lucy Brennan who came home in an impressive 37 minutes and 57 seconds. Second and third places went to Claremorris women Catherine Conway and Mary Gleeson, both members of Mayo Athletics Club. Fourth place went to Breege Blehin McHale from Moygownagh. Another star of the mini-marathon was 77-year-old Alice Egan from Ballina who completed the ten kilometre route in two hours and 14 minutes in what was a wonderful advertisement for active living. Alice was given a special presentation when she reached the finish line, in addition to the souvenir medal which each of the participants recevied. A total of 3,000 women registered to take part in the marathon with hundreds of thousands of euros being raised for charities across the region. Family entertainment was also provided at the Mall before and after the race. CEO of the Western People, Brian Feeney, described the event as a tremendous success and thanked everyone who had helped to make the day such a memorable one.
"It was an incredible turn-out for the inaugural mini-marathon and we certainly couldn’t have hoped for better weather. The Western People is delighted to have helped found this event because to-day was all about community spirit and that’s what we as a newspaper have always tried to foster. So many charities have benefited from to-day and everyone has had a fun time raising money. And for the more serious local athletes it has given them an opportunity to compete in a major race on home soil."
Charlie Lambert, co-ordinator of the Mayo Sports Partnership, said the mini marathon had been one of the great sporting successes in Co Mayo in recent years. The huge turn-out at the inaugural event meant the mini-marathon would become a fixture on the sporting calendar.
There was a great fun element to the mini-marathon with families, groups of friends and workers all taking part in the event. Even a few males managed to gatecrash the female party by donning wigs and, in some cases, skirts and tights. Representatives of Castlebar Chamber of Commerce said the event had generated substantial revenue for the local economy, with many of the participants remaining in town long after the final walkers had crossed the finish line. The event was also expertly managed by the emergency services who closed off the streets in the town centre for the thousands of participants.
Results for the mini marathon may be obtained in the special souvenir 10 page supplement of the Western People in your local newsagent or by purchasing an online digital copy at www.westernpeople.ie . They will also be available to view on www.westofirelandwomensminimarathon.com from Monday 10th May.
Fri, 07 May 2010 11:44:00 BST€15,000 National Scholarship Scheme - ISA & Coláiste UISCE
Scholarship Scheme Launched
Coláiste UISCE has launched a scholarship scheme to the value of €15,000. This scholarship has been launched in conjunction with the ISA (Irish Sailing Association). A Coláiste UISCE scholarship gives students a chance to win a place on a Summer Gaeltacht course absolutely free. Coláiste UISCE is the only Irish college with official recognition from the ISA. This means that each student will receive nationally accredited certificates in the various watersports on their return home. ‘Learning Irish is Fun’ at Coláiste UISCE. The lucky winners will not forget this amazing experience of learning Irish through adventure activities and time spent with us at the Coláiste.
All competition details can be found on our website www.uisce.ie . Each applicant must answer three Coláiste UISCE related question and give us a reason why they deserve a scholarship with us. Go n-éirí go geal libh.
Fri, 19 Mar 2010 15:34:00 GMTNewsletter Spring 2010
For all the latest news, upcoming events, training etc click here Newsletter Issue 10 Spring 2010 for the latest edition Spring 2010 of our bi annual newletter. For more information on any of the projects and activities highlighted contact the Partnership at 094-9047025 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 17:12:00 GMTNational Volunteer of the Year Award for Carnacon Manager
National Award for Jimmy
Congratulations are extended to Carnacon Ladies GAA manager Jimmy Corbett who was one of 10 volunteers from the sporting community across Ireland to receive a national award. The awards were presented by Minister of Sport Martin Cullen at a ceremony in Farmleigh House last Thursday under the governments Sports Volunteer of the Year Awards.
The National Awards to Volunteers in Irish Sport is an initiative of the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism in conjunction with the Federation of Irish Sports which represents some 68 sports in Ireland. The scheme is supported by Setanta Sports, Servasport, the Community Foundation and the Irish Sports Council. This is the second time for the awards to be presented - they were previously presented in 2007.
The award winners were selected by a Committee chaired by Olympic Gold Medal Winner, Dr Ronnie Delany. Dr Delany also chaired the 2007 awards Committee.
Among the award recipients was Jim O’Shea from Waterford, who is the father of Manchester Utd’s John O’Shea. He received a Lifetime Award for his work over 40 years with local soccer club, Ferrybank AFC. Liz Howard, who has been involved with the GAA and camogie for many years, received the award for National Administrator of the Year. The award for Junior Volunteer went to 17-year-old Orla Grehan from Ferbane in County Offaly for her work with Ferbane Belmont Minor GAA Club.
The full list of award winners is as follows:
Category Winner Sport County
Junior Volunteer of the Year Orla Grehan Gaelic Games Offaly
Adult Manager of the Year Jimmy Corbett Ladies GAA Mayo
Adult Coach of the Year Carmel Malone Special OlympicsDublin
Youth Manager of the Year Hughie Nolan Soccer Wicklow
Sports Official of the Year Joe Browne Swimming Dublin
National Administrator of the Liz Howard Camogie Tipperary
Year
Disability Sport Volunteer of Joe and Bernie Irish Dublin
the Year Walsh Blind Sports
Youth Coach of the Year Seamus Reynolds Rowing Derry
Clubman of the Year Joe Cullen Soccer Dublin
Community Administrator of Joe O’Flynn Athletics Cork
the Year
Lifetime Award Jim O’Shea Soccer Waterford
Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:26:00 GMT
Be Active 55 Programme Spring 2010 Launched
Launch of “Be Active 55” Spring Timetable for Co. Mayo
The Spring timetable for the “Be Active 55” project in Co. Mayo has been launched, with leisure centres in Ballina, Ballinrobe, Erris, Castlebar, Claremorris, Lacken, Mulranny and Westport participating in the scheme. “Be Active 55” is now in its second year and has proven to be an exciting and novel way of getting older people interested in exercising, socialising and generally enjoying health in later life.
Leisure centres in County Mayo are continuing to offer special classes for people aged 55 and over, with an emphasis on getting fit and having fun. The centres are working with Mayo Sports Partnership and the HSE on the “Be Active 55” project, with each leisure centre providing a “Be Active 55” class once a week on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Thelma Birrane, Health Promotion Officer, HSE West, and Charlie Lambert, Sports Coordinator, Mayo Sports Partnership, both agree that: The success of this project can be put down to the involvement of older people in the planning of the project and the strong partnerships that have developed between the Sports Partnership, the HSE and the leisure industry.
The aim of the initiative is to increase the usage of leisure facilities by people over 55 through a co-ordinated programme of activities at off-peak times. As a result of the tremendous success of the initiative, centres throughout Mayo have put together a programme of activities at a reduced cost especially for people in this age category.
he physical activities that are organised through the “Be Active 55” project have a number of benefits for people aged 55 and over, including:
Improving your mental health, and reducing stress and anxiety
Helping reduce loneliness and isolation Preventing falls and reducing the risk of osteoporosis Reducing your blood pressure, cholesterol, risk of strokes and heart disease Increasing your mobility and helping you maintain your independence for much longerCharlie Lambert adds: On Saturday, 27th February, the Winning Streak game show on RTE will feature the ‘Be Active 55’ initiative as an activity project that is supported by the Irish Sports Council. The 2/3 minute piece will be broadcast from the Westport Leisure Park that delivers an excellent and successful programme. Please tune in to the show on the 27th to see the wide range of activities that are available at the centre for over 55s.
Anyone interested in getting involved in the ‘Be Active 55’ initiative over the coming months can contact any of the participating leisure centres in Co. Mayo. To download timetable please click here Timetable for Be Active 55 Spring 2010
Mon, 15 Feb 2010 17:26:00 GMTIrish Sports Council announces Governing Body Grants
GOVERNING BODIES Irish Sports Council Announces 2010 Governing Body Grants€11.85 million will be allocated for core activities to sports bodies €1.375 million in Women in Sport grants to governing bodies
The board of the Irish Sports Council met today (February 9, 2010) and confirmed the grant allocations to the National Governing Bodies of sport (NGBs). Overall €11.85 million will be invested in the core activities of 59 governing bodies including administration, participation programmes, coach development, hosting events, implementing strategic plans and the employment of professional staff.
In addition, 27 sports were allocated grants totalling €1.375 million under the 2010 Women in Sport Programme. Women in Sport is an initiative aimed at increasing sports participation by women. It commenced in 2005 and has proved very popular with the sports and extremely successful in bringing women of all ages into sport.
For the full list of governing body and women in sport grants please click here www.irishsportscouncil.ie/News_Events/Latest_News/2010_Archive/GOVERNING_BODIES_Irish_Sports_Council_Announces_2010_Governing_Body_Grants.html
John Treacy, Chief Executive of the Council commented: "We are committed to supporting the governing bodies of sport. They operate to a very high standard and provide outstanding service to the entire community. We are fortunate to have so many excellent sports organisation with talented and committed individuals working in both professional and voluntary capacity".
Some highlights for 2010
- Cumann Camogaiochta na nGael will launch a new strategy with a strong focus on increasing participation for women and girls. The sport has identified fair play and sportsmanship as a key goal of in their games. They have launched a new Ezine for their members.
- Cumann Peil Gael na mBan will also launch a new strategy focusing on increasing participation. It will also pilot their Ladies GAGA 3 rd level recreational initiative in conjunction with the Council of Universities Sports Association of Ireland.
- Cycling Ireland is in the process of recruiting a Coach Education Officer. This post was sanctioned in 2009 and will be instrumental in developing Cycling Ireland Education Programmes as well as the new Coaching Ireland Adventure Framework for Mountain Biking.
- Tennis Ireland will receive funding to continue its support of the Parks Tennis programme. This programme in association with local authorities and FAS provides participation opportunities and tennis coaching for 26,000 children in 160 venues across the country.
- Triathlon Ireland has a new CEO supported by the Irish Sports Council and Sport Northern Ireland. This is the first time the organisation has had a CEO in place. The organisation has experienced significant growth each year for the past few years.
- Irish Squash Federation recruited an Operations Manager in 2009 and this position will be instrumental in broadening the membership base of the sport as well as delivering their new strategy. Squash will be collaborating with the Irish Table Tennis Association and Badminton Ireland to launch a new racket based participation programme.
- National Community Games continue to work with the Council and the HSE to promote the Active Healthy Lives message to thousands of children every year and 2010 will be the second year of the Finals at their new Venue in Athlone.
- Swim Ireland continue to roll out its new Coach Education programme to all its aquatic disciplines and is currently signing up clubs to its Swim Mark, the new club accreditation. Club development and continuing professional development are key priorities for the organisaiton for 2010.
- Volleyball Association of Ireland continue to deliver on their very successful Women in Sport Programme which is called Spikeball to aid school teachers in introducing junior volleyball to their students in schools throughout the country.
- The Irish Hockey Association has been funded through Women in Sport to continue with their successful national festivals that will cater to over 2,500 participants this year.
Review of Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2006-2009
Strategy Review 2006-2009
The Partnership has just recently conducted a review of its first strategy. To see this document please click Strategy Review 2006-2009 . A new strategy for 2010 - 2014 is to be developed in the current months with consultation meetings due to be held amongst focus groups. For more information contact the office at 094-9047025 or mail msp@mayococo.ie
Fri, 15 Jan 2010 17:40:00 GMT32 marathon challenge
Starting on the 2nd July, Gerry Duffy and Ken Whitelaw are going to attempt to run 32 marathons in 32 consecutive days in the 32 counties of Ireland to raise funds for charity. Irish Autism Action and Autism NI are going to be the main benefactors of the funds raised but Gerry and Ken also wish to give a portion of the proceeds to the Irish Cancer Society.
Although this unique challenge has never before being tried in Ireland, to make it truly special Gerry and Ken are asking 32 different people to join them each day to run, jog or waddle either a full or a half marathon. This is where you come in – to raise as much money as possible for the charities they need over 1,000 runners to sign up for the event. Almost 300 have signed up over the last few weeks but they are asking you to consider joining them for what is possibly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in a marathon or half marathon in your local county.
To participate you are asked to raise €1,000 if doing a full marathon or €600 if doing a half marathon. Sponsorship cards will be available to help you out with fundraising. The website, www.32marathons.com also has tonnes of tips for helping you to raise the money. You can also register via the site, as well as read through the FAQ’s, training plans, timetable of counties and lots more.
To encourage you to don a pair of runners the guys have talked a number of well know celebrities to join them along the way. Michael O’Leary will be running a half marathon in Dublin; Keith Duffy will be running the full 26 miles that day too. Charmaine Kenny, the current Rose of Tralee is also going to join them one of the days. Henry Sheflin, Eamonn Coughlan, Peter Canavan and Daragh O’Shea are just some of the other sport stars who have agreed to be the race starters in their local counties.
New Triathlon Club for Mayo
New Triathlon Club set up.
They say that its an ill wind that blows no good, the recession has brought about a huge interest in out door activates.In August 2009 a group of 25 novice swimmers swam across the width of Lough Mask the 7k distance did not deter many as interest has soared since the challenge, a move was made to set up a club to facilitate the interested parties and 2 clubs has now been set up for the price of one.Triathlon has been growing rapidly in Ireland over the past few years and now South Mayo/ North Galway area has a club of its own called Tri Lakes Triathlon club.Open water swimming is also being catered for with Triathlon members being able to affiliate to a Swim Ireland club, as some of the Tri members are already members of Tuam, Claremorris and Westport masters clubs.Anyone interested in taking up Triathlon or open water swimming can contact John Craddock Ballinrobe @ 086 1565058 or Eugene Hoade @0870564827
Tue, 22 Dec 2009 10:45:00 GMTDisability in Sport Newsletter
The latest edition of the Cara Centres Newsletter which highlights opportunities for participation in sport and recreation by people with a disability can be viewed by clicking on Cara Focus Newletter Dec 09 . For any information ofn the disability programme you can contact Ray Mc Namara Sports Inclusion Disability Officer at 094-9047023. Mon, 21 Dec 2009 17:30:00 GMTSupport Kit for National Governing Bodies of Sport Launched
Support Kit for National Governing Bodies of Sport
On November 25, the Irish Sports Council launched the NGB Support Kit to further assist National Governing Bodies in the development and running of their sports.The Support Kit focuses on the areas of Governance, Organisational Structures, Human Resources, Volunteers, Strategic Planning, Finance, Event Management, Communications, Club Development and Membership, Sponsorship along with Other Supports. Each chapter in the Support Kit gives an understanding of the key principles of the relevant section and this will be supported by templates, links, supporting documents, examples and case studies from NGBs that demonstrate good practice. To view the kit use this link www.irishsportscouncil.ie/Governing_Bodies/NGB_Support_Kit/
Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:06:00 GMT
2009 Go for Life Grants Announced
The Irish Sports Council allocates €350,000 in sports grants for 740 older people’s groups
40 Older Peoples Groups in Mayo are among 740 groups nationwide to share an allocation of €350,000 under the eighth Go for Life National Grant Scheme for Sport and Physical Activity for Older People. Aine Brady T.D., Minister of State, Department of Health and Children with responsibility for Older People announced details of the allocations today under the Go for Life national grant scheme, which aims to help local clubs and organisations to increase opportunities for their older members to actively participate in recreational sport and a range of physical activities.
This year over 900 applications were received from older people’s groups all over the country. The 740 successful applicants include active retirement associations, senior citizens clubs, ICA guilds, sports clubs, Local Sports Partnerships, day centres and community centres in 26 counties. The grant aid is being used to buy sports equipment and to fund sport and activity programmes. In 2008 an estimated 23,296 older people participated directly in programmes funded by this scheme.
Making the announcement Áine Brady, T.D. stated "In the last nine years over 5,000 grants have been allocated under this scheme to local groups of older people to increase their participation in sport and physical activity. These grants allow people to decide for themselves how to be more active and they are making a huge contribution to improving the physical, mental and social well-being of older people throughout the country."
Speaking at the announcement, John Treacy, Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council said: "Our vision in the Irish Sports Council is one where participation in sport and physical activity enhances quality of life. Go for Life has proven over the last nine years to be a significant intervention to get older people more active and more involved in a huge range of sporting activities with all of the life changing benefits that this brings."
Welcoming the funding to Mayo which totaled €17,850 Mayo Sports Partnership Co-ordinator Charlie Lambert said he was delighted to see so many groups from Mayo included in the allocation.
“The aim of the funding is to help local clubs and organizations to increase opportunities for their older members to actively participate in recreational sport and a range of physical activities. We are particularly delighted that 8 more groups received funding under this years scheme ”
Today’s allocation brings to €2.85 million the amount granted under this scheme to older people’s groups over the last nine years. Mayo Sports Partnership will continue to have older peoples involvement in physical activity as one of its main objectives in 2010. Through its very successful Be Active 55 Programme which is available in 10 Leisure Centres throughout the county numerous older people are having fun while taking exercise in a friendly and sociable environment. For more information on this project and other initiatives please contact the Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or log on to www.mayosports.ie
Full List of Groups can be downloaded here 2009 List of Grants in Mayo
Go for Life Programme can be found on www.olderinireland.ie
Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:17:00 GMT
Sports Inclusion Disability Officer (SIDO) Annual Report 2008 - 2009
Sports Inclusion Disability Officer (SIDO) Annual Report 2008 - 2009Mayo Sports Partnership is delighted to present the Sports Inclusion Disability Officer (SIDO) Annual Report for April 2008 –April 2009.
The Report is a summary of the first year of the SIDO programme which has proved to be a very exciting and successful year.
Click on the link below to view the report.
SIDO Annual Report 2008 - 2009
Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:23:00 GMTNew Chairman for Mayo Sports Partnership Board
New Chairman for Sports PartnershipAt the first meeting of the incoming sports partnership board Cllr Henry Kenny was appointed as Chairman for the life of the board which runs until 2014. Cllr Kenny, who holds a keen interest in all sports, expressed his delight in his appointment and also his commitment to do the best he can in the position.
“ I would hope to continue to lead the Partnership in the same outstanding vein that my predecessor Pat Stanton has done over the last 5 years” stated Cllr Kenny.
The new board also comprises of a number of new and old faces with three new seats filled by members of the Sports Forum and two new members from the county community forum. There are 17 members on the board details of which can be found by clicking on a link on the navigation bar . One of the first tasks of the incoming board will be to develop a new strategic plan 2010 – 2014 following on from the successful implementation of the inaugural plan which expires in 2009.
Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:19:00 GMTGo for Life Grant Scheme for Older People
Go for Life Grants 2009
Please click for the application form for this year’s Go for Life National Grant Scheme for Sport and Physical Activity for Older People. Note that this year the closing date is 30 September – a bit earlier than usual. If you have any difficulty opening the attachment it can be downloaded from the Age and Opportunity website www.ageandopportunity.ie.
If you have any queries about the grant scheme or about any aspect of the Go for Life programme please do not hesitate to contact the Sports Partnership at 094-9047025
Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:41:00 BST
National Physical Activity Guidelines Launched
National Physical Activity Guidelines
Being physically active is one of the most important steps people of all ages can take to improve their health. Despite the overwhelming evidence, much of the Irish population is not sufficiently active to reap the health gain of physical activity.
The National Physical Activity Guidelines for Ireland provide clear, concise and user friendly guidance to support the public, professionals and policy makers to Get Ireland Active. They present a unique opportunity to create a shared vision and framework to support everyone to be as active as they can and enjoy the innumerable benefits.
You can download the activity guidelines by logging onto www.getirelandactive.ie Wed, 02 Sep 2009 17:16:00 BSTAre you a Sports Volunteer? – If so, please read on …
The Irish Sports Council has commissioned research to investigate the needs, capacities, and profile of the Irish volunteers working with children’s and youth sport and physical activity programmes. It is part of a larger study investigating the sport and physical activity patterns of children and youth. The aim of the study is to investigate how best to enhance the experience for all involved in sport and physical activity, including the volunteer.
The research team is eager to hear from volunteers and club administrators about the volunteer experience, examples of best practice, and barrier to recruiting and maintaining a volunteer workforce. This will be done through an online survey that will take no more than 15 minutes to complete. This is the first in-depth study in Ireland to focus on the volunteer experience. Those who participate in the study are entered into a prize draw. Administrators are placed in a draw to win a 3 day training camp for their club and the volunteers have the opportunity to win sports vouchers. Visit the web address below for more details on the prizes.
The online survey is located on the Irish Sports Council website
Further information is available from Tony Cunningham at the Irish Sports Council at 018608800.
Note: According to a 2005 ESRI/Irish Sports Council report, sport contributes more than €2 billion into the Irish economy every year. This includes volunteering, club membership, attendance at sports events, sports equipment and sports tourism. Volunteering alone contributes €267 million based on the labour input of the 400,000 sports volunteers making a very significant contribution to the Irish economy. Sport is dependent on these volunteers for the quantity and quality of sport experiences available to participants. The volunteer also gains benefits from participation, volunteerism contributes to the volunteers own engagement in physical activity, it provides an opportunity for volunteers to stay connected to their sport, it allows them to contribute to the community, work with young people, and to follow their passion. The benefits to volunteers and participants build social connection and capital within the community.
Volunteerism is the lifeblood of Irish Sport but there has been little research that has focused on the need of the Irish volunteer working with children and youth. Sports organizations are always looking for volunteers and how best to recruit and keep them in the programme. The findings from this research will assist in policy development aimed at developing programmes and resources to support volunteers and clubs.
Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:39:00 BST
25 Projects funded through Annual Grant Scheme
25 SPORTING INITIATIVES RECEIVE FUNDING THROUGH SPORTS PARTNERSHIP GRANT SCHEME
25 sports projects throughout Mayo received a total of € 16,000 in funding under the Mayo Sports Partnerships Special Participation Project Initiative Scheme 2009 at a presentation event, held yesterday Monday 8th June, in Ballyheane Community Centre. The first instalment of the funding was presented by the Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Councillor Joe Mellett who complimented the Partnership on its work in fostering such community based initiatives
“ With the pressures and inactivity levels of modern society projects which encourage communities to come together to combat these ills need to be supported” Cllr Mellett stated.
The aim of the Sports Partnership is to increase participation in sport and it is envisaged that all projects will help to do just that particularly in disadvantaged sectors of the population.
“This scheme is all about increasing opportunities for participation in target sectors of the population such as people with disabilities, children, disadvantaged, ethnic minorities, women and the travelling community to name but a few” said Pat Stanton Chairman of the Mayo Sports Partnership.
The Partnership which comprises of interested agencies, Sports and Community Forum representatives, is funded by the Irish Sports Council and is a sub-office of the Mayo County Development Board. For funding under this scheme applicants need to show that the suggested project will increase participation and is sustainable.
As well as funding mainstream sports, this year the scheme has funded initiatives ranging from community based water sports, start up of new clubs, coaching opportunities for disadvantaged and development of minority sports.
Since 2005 the Partnership has brought an overall investment of close to € 2 million to developing sport and recreation within the county. Many projects / initiatives involving pre-schools all the way up to older people have benefited from this significant investment mainly through the Irish Sports Councils direct funding. The above figure does not include the very significant input of partner agencies on the board such as Mayo County Council, Mayo VEC, HSE West, GMIT, Mayo Education Centre and other stakeholders.
Any further information on the above can be obtained by contacting Mayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or by logging on to www.mayosports.ie
The full list of Clubs/Organisations who received funding are:
Recipients of the Special Participation Grant 2009
Projects involving Sports Clubs/Organisations:
Club: Amount:
Swinford Tennis Club €500
Ballina Tennis Club €500
Mayo Shore Angling Club €500
Caiseal Gaels Hurling Club €750
Ballina Junior Badminton Club €400
Kilmovee Basketball Club €500
Cornboy United Soccer Club €500
Ballina Athletics Club €1000
Claremorris Athletic Club €750
Ballyhaunis Badminton Club €750
Turlough Towers Community Games €750
Ardagh/Crossmolina Boxing Club €750
Ballyvary Hurling Club €500
Westport Tennis Club €500
Claremorris Tennis Club €750
Parke/Keelogues/Crimlin Bord na nóg €750
Kilmaine Boxing Club €800
Projects involving Community & Older people:
Club Inferno, Ballina €500
Westport Family Resource Centre €500
Bonniconlon ICA €500
Cosgallen East Mayo CDP €1000
Tooreen Ladies Group €500
Club Vario Ballina €500
Corr Acla Teo €500
Killala Foroige Club €1000
Tue, 09 Jun 2009 11:57:00 BST
National Report of the Sports Partnership Network
This is the second annual report of the Irish Sports Council's Local Sports Partnership initiative. The report is based on the information provided for 2008 by 29 Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs) using the SPEAK self-evaluation system. Clich here to download the report 2008 National Review of LSPs
Key Findings
Almost 70,000 people participated in locally delivered programmes In addition, almost 7,900 female participants took part in local Women in Sport programmes Over 3,500 participants completed Code of Ethics courses Over 9,600 people participated on a range of other locally planned and delivered training courses Over 2,500 clubs and groups were supported in the delivery of their activities LSPs provided over 7,100 clubs, groups and organisations with important information and advice in the area of funding Fri, 22 May 2009 16:16:00 BSTAdventure Sports Plan Launched
Adventure Sports Plan Launched
Caitheoirleach of Mayo County Council Cllr Joe Mellett and C.E.O. of Mayo V.E.C. Dr Katie Sweeney were the keynote speakers at the launch of the Mayo Sports Partnerships plan for the Promotion of Adventure Sports in Mayo on Tuesday 24th March in the Achill Outdoor Education Centre.
The plan, which is an attempt to co-ordinate stakeholders and agency involvement in the area, contains several actions under the themes of participation, training / education, facilities and communication. Promotion and marketing, more adventure activities in schools, creation of an adventure sports forum and the development of an adventure sports website are all included in this realistic framework document which went through a thorough consultative process with local stakeholders / agencies.
Chairman of the Sports Partnership and M.C. for the launch Pat Stanton gave an informative background to the development of adventure sports over the last 30 years or so and introduced Chairman of Mayo VEC Pat Kilbane to welcome people to the area. Mr Kilbane described how Mayo VEC were the original instigators of Outdoor Education in the country and have introduced many children and adults to the outdoor environment over the years and will continue to do so into the future.
Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council Cllr Joe Mellett, who recently was involved in an initiative to promote cycling as a means of transport to work, welcomed the development of a plan to promote outdoor activities.
“ Mayo County Council, through its walking officer and the Mayo Sports Partnership, has contributed significantly towards the promotion of the use of the outdoor environment and even in difficult economic times will continue to do so into the future”
Failte Ireland – West Marketing Manager Mr Brian Quinn highlighted the importance of adventure sports and activities for the tourism sector in Mayo.
“ Events such as the Gaelforce West Adventure Race and the Achill Half Marathon will bring in a lot of economic activity to West Mayo. Failte Ireland will continue to work with stakeholders / agencies, such as the Mayo Sports Partnership, to develop further initiatives which are vital for the area” he stated.
CEO of Mayo VEC Dr Katie Sweeney proceeded to launch the plan while stressing the need for collaboration and sharing of information between all agencies / stakeholders who have an interest in Adventure Sports. She also thanked the Irish Sports Council for co-funding the initiative under its challenge funding programme and also towards providing core funding for the continuation of the Local Sports Partnership in the county.
“Mayo is ideally placed to gain advantages from the promotion and development of adventure sports and there are potential social and economic benefits which could accrue to the county. This plan is an attempt to contribute to this development and to utilize the Mayo Sports Partnership to harness the expertise and resources of those already involved in adventure sports to coordinate actions towards maximising the potential in this area” Dr Sweeney stated.
Dr Sweeney went on to describe how on the 29th April Mayo VEC will launch its Active Learning Initiative which will bring Mayo Sports Partnership, Mayo VEC, GMIT, Mayo Education Centre and the Junior Cycle P.E. Support Service together to promote the use of adventure sports in the school environment and to build school / community links. This initiative is a practical example of a partnership approach in a unique initiative which will bring use of the natural environment to the fore in the eight areas which VEC schools are situated.
Further information and copies of the plan can be obtained by contacting the Mayo Sports Partnership Office at 094-9047025 or download a copy by clicking on this link Adventure Sports Plan
Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:52:00 GMT
National Disability Centre 2nd Newsletter
Cara Centres 2nd Newsletter Launched
The National Centre for the involvement of people with a disability in sport and recreation has just published its second newsletter which describes all the work which is been done by the Sports Inclusion Development Officers throughout the country. To see the Newsletter please click here Cara Newsletter For further information contact Ray Mc Namara at 094-9047023
Wed, 18 Mar 2009 17:01:00 GMTBe Active 55 Programme Spring 2010 Launched
Launch of “Be Active 55” Spring Timetable for Co. Mayo
The Spring timetable for the “Be Active 55” project in Co. Mayo has been launched, with leisure centres in Ballina, Ballinrobe, Erris, Castlebar, Claremorris, Lacken, Mulranny and Westport participating in the scheme. “Be Active 55” is now in its second year and has proven to be an exciting and novel way of getting older people interested in exercising, socialising and generally enjoying health in later life.
Leisure centres in County Mayo are continuing to offer special classes for people aged 55 and over, with an emphasis on getting fit and having fun. The centres are working with Mayo Sports Partnership and the HSE on the “Be Active 55” project, with each leisure centre providing a “Be Active 55” class once a week on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Thelma Birrane, Health Promotion Officer, HSE West, and Charlie Lambert, Sports Coordinator, Mayo Sports Partnership, both agree that: The success of this project can be put down to the involvement of older people in the planning of the project and the strong partnerships that have developed between the Sports Partnership, the HSE and the leisure industry.
The aim of the initiative is to increase the usage of leisure facilities by people over 55 through a co-ordinated programme of activities at off-peak times. As a result of the tremendous success of the initiative, centres throughout Mayo have put together a programme of activities at a reduced cost especially for people in this age category.
he physical activities that are organised through the “Be Active 55” project have a number of benefits for people aged 55 and over, including:
Improving your mental health, and reducing stress and anxiety
Helping reduce loneliness and isolation Preventing falls and reducing the risk of osteoporosis Reducing your blood pressure, cholesterol, risk of strokes and heart disease Increasing your mobility and helping you maintain your independence for much longerCharlie Lambert adds: On Saturday, 27th February, the Winning Streak game show on RTE will feature the ‘Be Active 55’ initiative as an activity project that is supported by the Irish Sports Council. The 2/3 minute piece will be broadcast from the Westport Leisure Park that delivers an excellent and successful programme. Please tune in to the show on the 27th to see the wide range of activities that are available at the centre for over 55s.
Anyone interested in getting involved in the ‘Be Active 55’ initiative over the coming months can contact any of the participating leisure centres in Co. Mayo. To download timetable please click here Timetable for Be Active 55 Spring 2010
Mon, 15 Feb 2010 17:26:00 GMTGoal to Work 2
/media/Media,16761,en.jpgPictured announcing details of Goal to Work 2 for Ballina is Left to Right Domestic Games Manager Connaught IRFU Lyndon Jones, John Magee Mayo County Development Board, FAI County Development Officer Paul Byrne , Charlie Lambert Sports Co-ordinator Mayo Sports Partnership, Siobhain Webb Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company and Mayo GAA Games Development Officer Eugene Lavin.
Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company and Mayo Sports Partnership in association with Mayo County Development Board, Connacht Rugby (IRFU), FAI, Mayo GAA, HSE West, Mayo Job Club and Department of Social Protection will deliver “Goal to Work” in Ballina this September.
“Goal to Work” is an exciting initiative originally piloted in Mayo in 2010 by Mayo County Development Board. The first programme trained 12 jobseekers to become fully qualified soccer coaches and referees with many of those gaining part time employment as a result. “Goal to Work” in Ballina builds on the successful pilot initiative and is multi sport with each trainee coach having the opportunity to train at foundation level in Soccer, GAA and Rugby. Each trainee coach will then select one main sport that they would like to specialise in and they will then deliver coaching in local primary schools in Ballina with the support of FAI County Development Officer Paul Byrne, Mayo Games Manager Billy McNicholas and Domestic Games Manager Connaught IRFU Lyndon Jones
Goal to Work specifically targets unemployed males and females from Ballina, or anyone living in Ballina in receipt of a social welfare payment. Participation on this two day week course will not affect a social welfare payment.
This Goal to Work training programme will include a classroom based learning component with FETAC accredited modules in IT and Personal Effectiveness. It will also deliver accredited training in Occupational First Aid, Child Protection in Sport, Irish Sports Council Active Leadership and Disability Awareness. In addition to these accredited modules this training programme will also provide information through specialist guest speakers on how to set up and manage your own business, enterprise opportunities, job readiness skills, personal development, building self esteem and self confidence, identification of personal progression options in employment, further education and training. Should they wish, trainee Coaches will also visit a third level education college of their choice to meet with the Access Officer and benefit from an orientation visit of the campus. Mayo Job Club will work with trainee coaches to improve their interview performance skills through provision of live interviews that will be digitally recorded with one to one critique of these interviews to enable improved performance at interviews.
Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company would like to invite applications from unemployed people in the Ballina area who will commit to attending this Goal to Work training programme for two days a week over fourteen weeks to become a qualified GAA, Soccer and Rugby Coach. The programme will starting on Tuesday 20th September is open to currently unemployed men and women who can see the potential in becoming a part time or full time coach in these sports.
To download an application form please click here Application Form for Goal to Work 2
According to Siobhán Carroll – Webb of Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company the focus of “Goal to Work” will be to tutor people as coaches with the aim of providing them with an option of setting up a business on a self-employed basis at the end of the coaching period, gaining employment or progressing onto further education or training.. It is hoped that the initiative will benefit the Ballina area with many of the coaches linking in with the recently formed Moy Sports Forum to provide sports/activity participation opportunities for disadvantaged sectors of the community. “This is a fine example of effective and efficient inter-agency work” states Siobhán as she stresses the importance of and value in collaborative inter-agency working in the current economic climate.
Mayo Sports PartnershipCo-ordinator Charlie Lambert said “This unique programme has been made possible through agencies working together. The partnership with the Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Company,Mayo Sports Partnership, Mayo County Development Board, Connacht Rugby, the FAI, Mayo GAA, HSE West and Department of Social Protection and the Social Inclusion Measures Group of CDB has been the key to the success of this programme”. Another added benefit, according to Charlie will be the availability of an increased number of coaches to work with the various schools, clubs and youth groups across a number ofsports.
Places will be limited to twelve trainee coaches. If you would like further information or an application form please contact Mary Glynn, Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Knock Office on 094 9376627 or e-mail info@mayonortheast.com. Application forms can also be downloaded at www.mayonortheast.com
Completed application forms should be returned to
Mary Glynn, Mayo North East LEADER Partnership, Knock Office, Knock, Co. Mayo.
Closing date for receipt of completed applications is strictly 12 noon Wednesday 31st August
.
Short listing may apply based on information provided in completed application form. Interviews will take place on Thursday 8th Sept in Ballina.
Thu, 18 Aug 2011 16:46:00 BST2nd Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival - A resounding Success!
Adrenaline junkies, beginners, families and individuals all embraced the spirit of adventure at the 2nd Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival, turning out in staggering numbers to try out a multitude of activities ranging from zorbing to abseiling, stand up paddle boarding and sailing. The weekend transformedWestport into a smorgasboard of activity attracting all age groups and offering a huge cross section of activities with something for everybody.
The first event on the exciting programme Mayo Splash and Dash attracted over 17 teams from local Primary schools to the Westport Leisure Park on Friday morning.
“Its wonderful to see so many kids participating in team events, this relay event incorporating swimming and running was impressive in the level of fitness and competitiveness amongst the kids” said Dermott Langan of Westport Leisure Park.
Saturday morning kicked off with a skateboarding competition atWestport’s new skate park along the Greenway with demos by some of the most talented pro-skaters in the country. Skating specialist store Wreckless in Gorey, who managed the event, were impressed by the talent displayed by the competitors and taken aback by the huge numbers that viewed the activities. Abseiling of the top of theWestportLeisureCenter, whilst not for the faint hearted, attracted a brave and committed group of participants. Adventure West also hosted free zorbing at Westport House with the latestNew Zealandcraze proving a hugely popular activity. Other activities at Westport House included orienteering through woodland and combat games with families enjoying the outdoor activities. Standup paddle boarding along the Mall kept The Adventure Islands gang busy with up to 12 participants on the water at any one time. Their sailing activity at the Quay encouraged people to take up sailing with their instructors teaching basic sailing skills.
Saturday morning commenced with the inaugural Great Western Greenway 10k Run/Walk., the festival’s anchor event, with over 200 participants. The first lady to cross the line at a time of 43 minutes 15 seconds was Kathleen Barry from Partry followed closely by Colette Sweeney and in third place Edel Hackett. Andrew Lynskey of Mayo Athletic Club finished in a time of 36 minutes 47 seconds, 2nd place went to David Harper of Westport Athletic Club and followed by Brendan Conway in 3rd place. The over 35 first lady to cross the line was Caitriona O’Grady; the first male was Anto Devaney of Mayo Athletic Club. Gerry Thomas, 58 years old, left his contemporaries behind as the first to finish in the over 45 age group, Pauline Moran was the first lady to finish in this category. Kudos goes to the Mayo Sports Partnership,WestportLeisurePark and Westport Town Council in co-ordinating the event.
The Get Out There Adventure Festival culminated with the Westport Festival of Sport Fun Day in association with Westport United. It featured over 12 different sports; water sports, traditional games; a bouncy castle & fun inflatables; walking challenges, street orienteering and many more activities. Charlie Lambert of Mayo Sports Partnership acknowledged the exceptional endorsement of all the local clubs who supported the day promoting physical activity at all levels of fitness and age groups.
Martin Keating of Westport Town Council said “The Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival encouraged all ages and fitness levels to sample a huge array of activities, to try something new in a safe environment with experts in their respective disciplines. Equally, the Great Western Greenway 10k Run/Walk and the Skateboarding competition showcased the fantastic facility the Greenway has become. We hope to continue building on the success of this festival, showcasingWestport as the ultimate adventure destination”.
Westport Get Out There Adventure Festival is supported by Westport Town Council, Mayo Sports Partnership,WestportLeisurePark, FáilteIreland, Westport House, Westport Athletic Club and Westport Cycling Club.
Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:25:00 BST