The dream has become a reality; a new synthetic track has finally been installed in Templemore. On a recent visit to the site accompanied by a proud Martin Leyden (architect of the project) and an even prouder sidekick Mick Connell I saw the fruits of what dogged determination could achieve. There is a long history to the track and I can remember all of it from the early discussions some 30 years ago with people like Jim Carey! The planning for the synthetic track was an orchestrated pragmatic effort to be achieved over several years. It started in 2002 with the laying of palisade fencing to secure the site; in 2003 the old surface was taken up; 2004 drainage was done and this is of the highest standard I have ever seen.(There had been incessant rain over a long period on the day I visited and not a drop of rain remained on the track);contract signed and the tarmacadam laid; 2006 new track in place. But folks you are not off the hook yet as Martin has more tickets to sell to complete the final phase! There is equipment to be purchased in addition to facilities for officials and spectators in the next year. This is a track completely under the control of the local athletic club similar to the wonderful facilities at An Riocht and Tullamore Harriers. The track will have potential benefits for the Garda Training Centre based in the town in addition to the third level Tipperary Institute some 9 miles away in Thurles. The local club are grateful to the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism for their support and are particularly appreciative of the efforts of local TD Michael Smyth.The local authorities in North Tipperary have also assisted financially . The club itself has raised considerable finance. While the track will be available for training shortly no official competition will be held until the remaining facilities and equipment are in place in early 2008. Liam Hennessy