Record Numbers Enjoy HER Outdoors Week in Co. Westmeath

Composite image showing women enjoying kayaking at Lough Ennell in front of sunset asa prt of

Westmeath Sports Partnership is thrilled to confirm that it recorded its biggest ever number of participants for events during HER Outdoors Week.

The annual event, which is led by Sport Ireland through its support of Local Sports Partnerships, aims to celebrate and encourage more females to get out and enjoy the benefits of being in the outdoors while bringing visibility to the opportunities for females to get involved in outdoor physical activity.

Almost 500 females of all ages and abilities enjoyed 28 events led by or supported by Westmeath Sports Partnership between August 12-18, 2024.

The week was filled with exciting activities, inspiring stories, and a strong sense of community and friendship as women took to the outdoors in their dozens and embraced new opportunities and physical activity opportunities.

There was something for everyone to enjoy, with females experiencing early morning pilates and dips in Lough Owel in association with Midland Tri Club, Kilbeggan and Collinstown Pitch and Putt Clubs hosting very successful Come and Try sessions and mountain biking in Mullaghmeen Forest getting the adrenaline pumping.

Athlone Tri Club also hosted a number of very successful events across the seven days with the weather thankfully allowing lots of people to enjoy events all across County Westmeath.

Other highlights included yoga and tai chi classes in Mullingar Town Park and Dún na Sí in Moate, inclusive orienteering at Athlone Regional Sports Centre, stand up paddleboarding yoga at Lough Ennell, kayaking for women in Ballynacarrigy Harbour and boxercise in Mullingar Town Park.

Westmeath Sports Partnership Outdoors Development Officer Cian Fogarty was delighted with how many females took part, “It was really exciting to see participants of all ages and fitness levels enjoy the opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes of Westmeath, connect with like-minded women, and discover new hobbies and passions.“

Westmeath Sports Partnership wants to thank all participants for taking part in events during the week. We want to also thank our tutors, and all of the sports clubs and organisations who collaborated to host any opportunities for females to #EmbraceYourSpace and #FindYourOutdoors during HER Outdoors Week. We also wish to thank Sport Ireland for their continued support of women in sport and HER Outdoors Week.

Below you will find a selection of images from the events held during Her Outdoors Week.