Over 100 fifth and sixth class children from various schools throughout the City and County took part in they event, which saw competitors participate in a 50m swim followed by a 600m run. The children were cheered on by members of the Munster Rugby team.
40 children from the Limerick event progressed to the Midwest event where they competed against children from Clare, Tipperary and Kerry.
Phelim Macken, coordinator of the County Sports Partnership commented: “It was great to see the kids taking on this challenge and being cheered on by the Munster players as it gave them extra energy”.
He continued: “It was great for the spectators to watch each group setting off, with a 50m Swim followed by a 600m run. The route to the track in UL was quickly crowded with spectators, teachers and proud parents as they cheered on the competitors. It was a proud moment when the Munster Rugby team came out to start their training session, but actually stood back and cheered on the children, giving them encouragement. This will have an impact on those children’s lives forever, and it truly highlights that Limerick really is an all encompassing City of Sport.”
“As the children finished their event they were able to relax in the beautiful weather and watch the Munster team training on the bowl. Where else in the country, or the world could this happen?”, Mr. Macken added.
Elaine Barry, coordinator of the Limerick City Sports Partnership stated: “it is at times like this that I am very proud to be from Limerick and involved in the development of sport, in this city. We would like to sincerely thank Saorla O Donovan and Stephanie Murphy (3rd year PE Students) for assisting in coordinating this event. We also wish to acknowledge the valuable contribution of Alan Ward and the University of Limerick Arena staff for hosting this event.”
