Great turnout for Munster Regional Squad despite the Weather.

The weather was not very kind on Saturday last but despite this over 130 athletes, in many cases accompanied by their personal coaches or parents, attended the Munster Regional Squad in Limerick.

The day began with all athletes undergoing a series of basic athletic tests such as standing LJ, Vertical jump, 30m sprint, med ball throw etc. Thanks to those parents and personal coaches who helped the Squad coaches to run these tests so efficiently.

The athletes then broke into individual event groups with the middle distance athletes going through a light ‘pre-competition’ routine and being given some very valuable tips on training and race preparation by Liam Reale. The young walkers were delighted to be coached by Colin Griffin who was impressed with the high standard and dedication of the walkers present.

It was great to see former athletes such as Neil Ryan coaching in his specialist area, the sprints, Denis Finnerty still full of enthusiasm for the hurdles and also Martin O’Grady a former high jumper giving all the jumpers a very informative and active example of suitable conditioning work for jumpers.
The skies finally cleared long enough to all the Throwers to go outside eventually and get some throws in, so every event was well catered for.

There was a great buzz of activity about the Munster Squad Day and we hope that many more clubs will encourage their invited athletes to come along to the next Munster Squad Day in Cork on December 5th.
There will be Regional Squad Days in all other regions next weekend – contact your local RDO or see Athletics Ireland website for details.