Applications are now open for 2025 Athletics Ireland Athlete Carding Scheme, known as the Operation Gold Performance Programme. for athletes aged 20 and older on 31st Dec 2024.

Carding Selection Policy, application form, and other supporting documentation can be found here. All eligible athletes must submit a Carding Application by the deadline of Monday December 11th 2023 in order to be considered for carding selection.

Athletics Ireland will manage and administer the athlete carding scheme for all levels of carding, including Sport Ireland Carding at International, World Class and Podium levels. The carding scheme is a selection process whereby athletes must achieve performance criteria laid out within a selection policy to be considered for membership to the programme.

Please note that this round of applications will deal with Individual Carding only. A separate criteria document and application process for individuals seeking support via Relay Carding will be issued shortly, when we have greater clarity on the available resource to support relays in 2025, and developed comprehensive criteria, in conjunction with Sport Ireland, based on that resource.

Please note, applications for 2025 Emerging Talent Carding, for athletes aged 16 to 19 on 31st December 2024, will be handled separately via the Performance Pathway Programme. Full criteria and application form for Emerging Talent Carding will be released shortly on the Performance Pathway section of the website.