Welcome to the autumn Activity Bulletin from the team at Westmeath Sports Partnership focusing on August and September.
In this edition, we are taking a look back at some of the events, courses, and programmes which we helped organise and support during August and September.
The Irish seasons don’t always promise sunshine or ideal conditions, but that didn’t stop dozens of people from taking part in Activator Poles, kayaking, or orienteering among other physical activities at various locations across County Westmeath.
We also celebrated European Week Of Sport and Her Outdoors Week and below you will find just a sample of some of the work we have been doing in the last number of weeks with communities and groups throughout the county.
Don’t forget you can always get in contact with us via email info@westmeathsports.ie or through our social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, or X.
HER Outdoors Week
One of the highlights of the sporting year for everyone at the Sports Partnership is HER Outdoors Week, with lots of activities to encourage women to get physically active and try different sports.
This year we had more than 160 women taking part in over a dozen events all across Co. Westmeath. You can find more information on the events as part of our special report here .
Mountain Biking For Youths In Mullaghmeen
2023 marked the first time that the Westmeath Sports Partnership provided Mountain Biking as an activity for youths.
We were delighted to be able to use the wonderful tracks and trails at Mullaghmeen and everyone enjoyed a brilliant time on the bikes.
Thanks to tutor Al Redmond and George and Paddy from the local mountain biking club for their help during the programme.
Athlone Walking Group
September saw a new walking group established in Athlone.
The Get Athlone Walking Group is open to all ages and abilities and sets off each Sunday for a designated walk around the town and its environs. There might also be the chance for a chat and a cuppa at the end of it.
Find more details through their dedicated Facebook page.
Inclusive Cycling Camp
We were delighted to partner with our good friends and colleagues in Roscommon Sports Partnership to provide a cycling camp for children with additional needs in Drum, Roscommon, in mid-August.
Lads And Dads Kayaking
There is no better place to be than on the water as the sun sets and its rays reflect off Lough Owel and the water at Coosan Point.
We were delighted to welcome over 30 men of various ages to join Bob from Inventure Water Sports and his team to learn all about kayaking during August and September as part of Lads & Dads kayaking.
It’s fair to say the men had a wonderful time.
Activator Poles At St Loman’s GAA Club Grounds
Activator Poles is always a popular course and we were delighted to begin another block of walking at St Loman’s GAA Grounds in Mullingar during September. Tutor Damien kept everyone on their toes.
Orienteering Come And Try Taster Sessions
During August we were delighted to provide people with an opportunity to try orienteering at three sites in County Westmeath. This fun, outdoor activity is suitable for all ages, abilities and is also totally inclusive.
It was wonderful to see people engage in the outdoors at Dún na Sí, The Athlone Regional Sports Centre, and at The Mullingar Town Park.
Mullingar Harbour Canoe Polo Exhibition Match
We were delighted to attend a free exhibition match organised by the Mullingar Harbour Canoe Polo, club as part of Her Outdoors Week.
We got a chance to chat to Vicky and Rhianne Castle about their involvement in the sport and the enjoyment they get from being on the water.
Tri Heroes Training
Getting children in active in schools and providing them with different opportunities to try out sport is a key focus of the Westmeath Sports Partnership.
It was wonderful to see so many teachers and trainers join us in Clonkill in September to take part in Tri Heroes training in conjunction with our friends in Triathlon Ireland. and we look forward to more activity in the coming months.
More To Come
The fun and activity never stops for the Westmeath Sports Partnership team with activities in October including Olympic handball coaching, cycle training and Activator Poles classes in Ballymore.
As ever, the best place to keep up to date with all the information is right here on the Westmeath Sports Partnership website, or through our social media channels on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Alternatively, you can always email us at info@westmeathsports.ie.
We look forward to our next activity bulletin coming your way in early December.