Team Ireland Olympic silver medallist Sonia O’Sullivan joined almost 500 schoolchildren at a special event hosted by Westport Athletics Club, supported by the Dare to Believe Programme, the Olympic Federation of Ireland schools programme sponsored by Allianz Ireland.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Croagh Patrick and under bright blue skies, the newly opened track in Westport came alive with energy and excitement as children from ten local schools gathered for a morning of athletics and inspiration.
The event was spearheaded by Westport AC’s Lisa Clarkin and Rachael Tuomey. Proceedings began with a parade around the track, before students took part in a variety of activities including throwing, jumping and relay races, all guided by coaches and volunteers from the local community.
Speaking at the event, Team Ireland Olympian and Dare to Believe co-founder Róisín McGettigan praised the unique sporting environment in the region,
“It’s impossible to overstate the value of meeting role models like Sonia for these children, and it’s exciting to consider the lasting impact today’s visit may have. The aim of the Dare to Believe programme is to ensure that Irish Olympians have the opportunity to share their stories and inspire the next generation.
“The Dare to Believe programme aims to inspire the next generation through direct engagement with Olympians, encouraging young people to get involved in sport and to dream big. Today’s event in Westport is a strong example of that mission in action, and marks an important step as the programme continues to expand its community-based visits.”
Speaking about the impact of the day, Lisa Clarkin highlighted the inclusive nature of athletics,
“The beauty of athletics is that there is something for everyone – nobody is sitting on the bench. Days like today show what’s possible when a community comes together to give young people the chance to try, learn and enjoy being active.”
Launched in 2019, the Dare to Believe programme brings the Olympic Games and its values to children across Ireland, with particularly strong engagement in primary schools nationwide.
For more information on Dare to Believe, visit www.daretobelieve.ie.