The Glenmore AC Come and Try Day got underway on Sunday 24th April with the Carlingford Pipe Band leading the procession of athletes to the field. More than 60 athletes registered for to try out running, jumping and throwing events.
David O’Hare event Ambassador captures the ethos and spirit of the event in “Change, I can’t into I will and soon you’ll say I did.” Glenmore AC welcomed O’Hare to their Club in 2020 and have seen him go from strength to strength in the athletics environment. O'Hare has gone on to represent Ireland at events such as Trigames in Ferrara in 2020, at the Come and Try Day he also picked up some medals.
Georgina Drumm spoke to the athletes on behalf of Athletics Ireland, she commended Glenmore AC, David O’Hare and all those involved in the Come and Try Day. Drumm also wished the best of luck to the athletes competing.
Over 100 parents and spectators cheered on the athletes throughout the day, with positive and supportive feedback for further events to be held such as this around the country. The event included a broad spectrum of ages from toddlers to teens to engage in the events, which was greatly appreciated by parents.
Overall, all stakeholders felt it was a highly successful event. Next steps involve getting another Come and Try Days underway and encouraging clubs to get athletes who took part at the Glenmore AC Come and Try Day involved in their clubs.
A massive thank you to Glenmore AC, to the Volunteers and organisations such as the Down Syndrome Louth/Meath Branch, Warrior Wolves, Tsenya for their incredible efforts throughout this event and its preparation.
If you or your Club would like more information on how to get athletes with Down Syndrome involved in your Club or you would like to see your Club host a Come and Try Day please contact daviddaly@athleticsireland.ie
David O'Hare (Glenmore AC) Come and Try Ambassador
Athletics Ireland Georgina Dumm and David O'Hare