The National Sprints Group is a new Athletics Ireland programme launching in 2027 to support the development of Irish sprinters. Its purpose is to provide Irish sprinters and coaches with the structure and support they need to sustain success on the international stage.
Irish sprinting has grown significantly in depth and quality in recent years. The National Sprints Group aims to continue that momentum by bringing Ireland’s top sprinters and coaches together in a high-performance environment.
The group will be based around two training camps per year, in January and April, regular sessions at Sport Ireland Institute, and the support services needed to give athletes a professional setup in a high-performance environment.
These support services include individualised S&C plans, nutrition planning, sports psychology and physio support.
The group will operate a two-tier system, with each tier linked to performance level (see the 2027 Performance Standards below). The level of support differs between tiers:
Tier 1 athletes receive full support for training camps and full access to all support services.
Tier 2 athletes receive partial support for training camps. Support services are provided in consultation with the athlete and coach, based on individual needs.
The following guideline standards have been set for the group’s first year. They reflect global performance trends and the current depth within Irish sprinting. The standards are a guide only, and selection to the group is a competitive process.
Women – Tier 1 & 2 Guideline Criteria (2027)
Men – Tier 1 & 2 Guideline Criteria (2027)
Championship Standards for men and women
Note: Achievement of the guideline criteria does not guarantee selection. Selection is competitive and at coach discretion. Where places remain, athletes may also be selected to fill the group.
Applications for the inaugural 2027 group are now open and close at 23:59 on Wednesday 28 October 2026. Please note that Tier 1 and 2 selections are competitive, with a limited number of places. The coaches’ decision is final.
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