New athletics track was a huge boost for Special Olympic activity in Tipperary

At Scoil Aonghusa in Cashel, sport and physical activity are truly at the heart of school life. With over 150 pupils participating in a wide variety of sports and activities tailored to their abilities and interests, the school is a vibrant, lively place to be.

Over 80 athletes are registered with Ireland Special Olympics, participating in activities and competitions throughout the year.
What a fantastic, fun-filled, and energetic year it has been for the athletes. Physical education empowers every pupil regardless of ability to experience success, build confidence, foster friendships, and feel the joy of achievement.

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The school offers a diverse range of activities and sports to all pupils on a daily basis. Throughout the day, pupils enjoy a small track and playground to play with their friends and to get some much-needed exercise. At the rear of the school, pupils can also avail of a longer walking area plus two small playing pitches providing additional space for activity and movement.

The Special Olympics programme focuses on six main sports: swimming, athletics, equestrian, kayaking, table tennis, and the Motor Activities Training Programme (MATP). These sports, along with many other school-based activities, help each pupil develop confidence, independence, and perseverance, while fostering discipline and strong friendships.

The impact of sport at Scoil Aonghusa goes far beyond physical exercise. It nurtures personal growth, independence and joy, allowing every child to shine and achieve at their own pace.

Athletics

Athletics is the sport with the highest number of participants in Scoil Aonghusa, with over eighty athletes training weekly. We were delighted to avail of the new Clonmel athletics track regularly this year. Our thanks to South Tipp Sports Partnership for sponsoring this venue. At the track athletes learn how to wait at the start line, stay in lane and finish strongly, This is a huge learning experience building confidence, self-esteem, fostering personal growth and perseverance.
The weekly two-hour training paid off at the Munster athletics competition, as the team of forty-five became confident and comfortable on the track. Athletes competed in events from 25m run/walk to 400m on the track. In the field events, the mini javelin and softball throw were especially popular.

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Although the days were long, with school buses leaving at 7am and returning at nearly 6pm, the athletes took it all in their stride. Over 400 athletes from across Munster competed in the event.
The athletics programme has been a great success, thanks to the dedication of our athletes and coaches.