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Pupils and staff at Donore National School have officially opened a new running track designed to encourage children to get active and support their physical and mental wellbeing.
The track was opened on Friday in front of pupils, staff and members of the wider school community.
The project was developed to give children a dedicated space for running, exercise and outdoor activity, with the school placing a strong emphasis on healthy and active lifestyles.
Donore National School had been fundraising for the track with its Parents Association, describing it as a facility that would support running and walking for both athletic development and general wellbeing.
Frank Greally joins pupils for first lap
Frank Greally of Athletics Ireland was the special guest for the official opening and cut the ribbon to mark the occasion.
He also spoke to pupils about The Daily Mile, an initiative aimed at encouraging children to move more and build regular physical activity into the school day.
After the opening, Greally led the way around the new track, with pupils following behind for a lap.
The school hopes the new facility will make it easier for every child to take part in regular exercise, regardless of age or ability.
Focus on wellbeing and activity
Principal Ruth Daly said physical activity can play an important role in children’s overall wellbeing.
“regular physical activity can help children feel happier, build confidence, develop friendships and improve their overall sense of wellbeing. It can also provide an opportunity to have fun, challenge ourselves and enjoy being part of a team.”
The school said the track will give pupils more opportunities to spend time outdoors, stay active and develop positive habits around exercise.
Irish Cement, which supported the project, said the new track would provide pupils with a safe and accessible space to exercise, play and train during the school year.
Frank Greally of Athletics Ireland and Principal Ruth Daly
Thanks to local sponsors
The running track was made possible through support from a number of local businesses, organisations and families.
Donore National School thanked Irish Cement Platin, Byrock Technologies, Ardee Credit Union, the Gladney Family, Leinster Farm Machines, Jons Civil Engineering, Patrick and Ian Howard, the Parents Association, and an anonymous local donor.
The school said their contributions had been invaluable in bringing the project to completion.
The new running track is expected to be used throughout the school year, giving pupils a dedicated space to run, walk and enjoy physical activity for years to come.
