Athletics Ireland and dried fruit and nut experts Forest Feast have today announced a new partnership which will support the growth of grassroot athletics in Ireland through the major sponsorship of Little Athletics. Irish Long Jump Record Holder Kelly Proper, ambassador for the Forest Feast Little Athletics programme, was on hand to officially launch the partnership. The Forest Feast Little Athletics programme introduces young children (5-10 years) to athletics in a fun, engaging and non-competitive environment. It focuses on the use of games to develop fitness whilst enhancing agility, co-ordination and balance - all fundamental to longer term physical athletic development. Irish Long Jump Record Holder Kelly Proper, Ambassador for the Forest Feast Little Athletics Programme said, “The Forest Feast Little Athletics programme is fantastic for young children to be a part of. It encourages them to get active, develop their athletic ability and importantly have fun while doing so. Their involvement will help form a solid foundation for their future sporting life.” The Forest Feast Little Athletics programme is delivered in athletic clubs nationwide by Athletics Ireland’s Regional Development Officers and Athletics Leaders - adults trained through the Athletic Leader coaching qualification courses. Throughout the year there will be four regional Jamborees which will see various clubs coming together for fun challenges and group activities. Forest Feast Field Sales Manager Christine Whelan said, “We develop healthy snack options for the whole family through our range of dried fruit and nut products and firmly believe that establishing healthy habits at a young age is crucial for later life. For that reason we’re committed to supporting grassroots sports and are proud to come on board as title sponsor of Little Athletics. “As part of the Forest Feast Little Athletics programme, children will be encouraged to tumble, run, throw, hop and jump using a whole range of equipment such as hurdles, medicine balls, foam javelins and hula hoops. As such, the programme creates a very positive association between fun and fitness for children.” Speaking at the launch of the Forest Feast Little Athletics programme, John Foley, CEO of Athletics Ireland said, “We are delighted about this valuable new partnership between Forest Feast and Athletics Ireland. The Forest Feast Little Athletics programme is all about participation and making athletics fun for kids and now, with the support of Forest Feast, we can work to increase awareness and involvement across the country.” For further information on Little Athletics or the Athletic Leader qualification please contact your local Athletics Ireland Development Officer. Click here for Contact Details