Athletics Ireland in association with the Health Promotion Dept of the Health Service Executive (HSE) South Cork City & County Local Sports Partnership (CCLSP) has started a Fit4Life/Meet & Train group in partnership with the Cork Institute of Technology. The group is part of Athletics Ireland’s Fit4Life programme, which aims to develop fitness in a fun and sociable environment.

The group was launched on Tuesday 13th October with over 30 people signing up on the first night. A very enjoyable night was had by all and the feedback was very positive. The group will meet every Tuesday at 7pm sharp at the new Cork IT Stand and new members are welcome at anytime. No previous experience of jogging or running is required but you are also welcome to join if you are a regular runner. You can choose a pace to suit your own level of fitness. The group is being led by very experienced coaches Marian Lyons St. Finbarrs AC, Ian O’ Sullivan Cork IT and Eamon Kelly Ballincollig AC. The route use is the new walking trail in the grounds of CIT. Cost is €15 this covers insurance and registration with Athletics Ireland and includes a free goody bag. It is essential to have a good pair of runners and warm light layers to wear as you warm up. Males and females are welcome and all must be over 16 years.

Cork Institute of Technology are delighted with the opportunity to give something back to the local community and the meet and train group gives local people a chance to use CIT walking trail. Staff and students of CIT are also welcome to join as well as those living in the local community and further a field.
 
Shirley O’ Shea, Senior Health Promotion Officer, HSE South said “This group is planned to encourage people to get involved in activities who are new to exercise or would like to get fit as part of a group. We are working with local communities and facilities to ensure there are specific activities suitable for beginners and those with low fitness levels as it all about offering people in these communities an opportunity to get active, meet other people and socialise.” So just turn up on your own or even better bring a friend, relative or neighbour who you can train with in between group sessions”.
 
If you would like to know more about the Ballincollig/Bishopstown Fit4Life/Meet & Train group please contact Claire 021 466 5083 or Eucharia 021 492 4741 at the local sports partnership or check www.cclsp.com. Further info on Fit4Life Programme can be found at www.athleticsireland.ie or contact Regional Development Officer Steven Macklin at 0876335565 or e-mail stevenmacklin@athleticsireland.ie.