Westmeath Community Games 50th anniversary competition

Westmeath Community Games celebrated their 50th anniversary at the weekend as children competed in "unforgiving" rain at Mullingar Harriers Athletic Club.

The event kicked off with a torch bearer ceremony and the lighting of the flame to mark the special milestone followed by the first race at noon.

Chairperson of Westmeath Community Games, Emily Wallace, among those organising the events on the day, said: "It is a testament to all the hard work of all the volunteers over the last number of years.

"We lost our president Johnny Crowley and it was a huge loss to the county, but a day like today is great for our younger children."

Emily thanked all who were involved in making the games a success, mentioning the parents, children, many volunteers and Mullingar Harriers for the use of their track.

She said: "It’s been a long return for us. For the last two years we’ve been limited in doing our activities so it’s great to get back to Community Games.

"This is the first time we as a county are back at the Mullingar Harriers since the new track was laid so I want to thank them for their support.

"For parents and children, thank you very much for your support over the last couple of years and thank you to the Westmeath Civil Defence for your presence."

Scores of children battled in competitions such as the hurdles, the mixed relays, ball throw and javelin.

Emily described them as "very brave" as they powered through the terrible rain.

The winners of Sunday’s races go forward to compete in Monaghan at the national finals on August 13.