Mullingar Harriers AC launch track development
Main photo - Artist's impression of proposed running track.
Mullingar Harriers AC has begun the major task of upgrading its training facilities in Grange, Mullingar, which will involve the replacement of a large portion of the grass track with a multi-lane 400m all-weather running track.
A successful athletics club, and one of the most successful sporting clubs in Westmeath, Mullingar Harriers AC has won numerous senior and juvenile individual and team national titles and has had athletes represent Ireland at international youth and senior competitions including the Olympic Games.
Regional training hub
The new all-weather training facility will assist the club in achieving further successes and broaden its participation within track and field sports including more technical jumps and throws events.
Under the role of regional training hub, the track will benefit not just the Mullingar club, but the surrounding areas by facilitating event-specific training for members of neighbouring clubs under the guidance of qualified, experienced coaches.
Fundraising
In November 2019 it was announced that Mullingar Harriers AC had been successful in its application for a grant through the Sports Capital Programme to assist with the development of the track.
Although the grant is substantial, it will only cover a portion of the expenditure required.
Many fundraising activities are being planned by the club to raise finance, and one of the more headline-grabbing events is a raffle for a substantial main prize.
The draw will be launched in the near future and further information on the jackpot prize and how to buy tickets will be available in the club notes in local papers, on the club website and through various online and local platforms.
Mullingar Harriers AC are calling on members, friends, sports enthusiasts and local businesses to help complete the major upgrade by supporting the fundraising initiatives throughout the year.
Further information on the club, the planned training facility and how to help and donate can be found on the club’s website mullingarharriers.com.
Growth
Established in 1975, the club has gradually added to its facilities over the years by undertaking numerous projects.
From starting out in an empty green field, a small club house was eventually erected, along with the completion of the current grass track.
Various expansions to the clubhouse and training facilities have followed, including the development of four 100m all-weather sprint lanes.
The sprint lanes have been of major benefit to the club and it is agreed a complete 400m running track will further aid training and competition preparations.
However, just like preparing for a championship, a lot of hard work and time will be invested in what is the single largest upgrade the club will have undertaken to date, and the club will be looking for help from the local community.