Case Study
St. Laurence O Toole’s installation of Olympic-standard 400m track
Rural Towns
Overview
St. Laurence O’Toole’s Athletics Club began life as Carlow Athletics Club in the 1920s and changed its name in the late 1950s to St. Laurence O’Toole’s Athletics Club. The club is one of the longest established clubs in Ireland. It is an all-inclusive Athletics Club which caters for athletes of all levels – from amateur athletes to world medallists at its facility in Askea, Carlow in the heart of Carlow town. The aim of the club is to provide people of all ages and abilities with a top-class athletics facility which is a safe, friendly and comfortable environment where they can
train, exercise, maximise their potential, socialise, have fun and build their self-esteem.
The club has 400 plus members with approx. 700 people using the facility on a weekly basis. It hosts Fit 4 Life, which encourages non active members of the public to begin walking and running in a non-competitive setting. The club offers the opportunity to try all disciplines such as running, walking, hurdles, high jump, pole vaulting, javelin, discus and more.
This project involved the installation of a specialised synthetic surface over the existing tarmacadam 400m track, the marking of a synthetic track and associated works.
Solution
The project involved the installation of a specialised synthetic track surface to enhance the usability, safety, and performance of St. Laurence O’Toole’s Athletics Club. This development ensures the club continues to provide top-class facilities that cater to diverse community needs.
With the engagement of local authorities, sports councils, schools, and community groups to the upgraded facility. By expanding programs such as Fit 4 Life to include additional activities like adaptive athletics for people with disabilities or age-specific initiatives for children and older adults.
Using the facility as a hub for social inclusion by hosting community events, open days, and inter-club competitions and also promoting the facility through digital platforms, local media, and partnerships with local businesses to attract diverse users.
Outcomes
The improved track encourages more people to engage in running, walking, and other athletic activities, leading to better physical health. SLOT is a welcoming and safe environment which supports mental wellbeing by reducing stress and promoting social interaction.
Programs like Fit 4 Life and initiatives for children, seniors, and persons with disabilities promote inclusivity. Events and training programs strengthen connections among community members.
Improved facilities attract new members, boosting club revenues. Events held at the facility draw visitors, benefiting local businesses.
Members develop skills in various disciplines, with pathways for amateur athletes to reach competitive levels. Community members gain opportunities to volunteer, coach, or mentor, engaging personal growth and leadership.
Collaborations with schools encourage young people to take up athletics, promoting healthy lifestyles and discipline. Workshops on nutrition, injury prevention, and sports science could be integrated.
The synthetic surface reduces maintenance needs and supports sustainable development. A durable track ensures the facility remains a valuable community asset for years to come.
LEADER 2024 – 2027 is currently looking for New Projects
Website/Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/st.lot.ac/
Theme
Economic Development, Enterprise
Development and Job Creation
Year of funding:
2022 (As part of LEADER 2014-2020
Transitional Programme)
Amount Funded €500,000
“it was a momentous day for the club when four containers pulled up outside the ground and unloaded the rubber surface. It was the same surface that was used for previous Olympic games such as London in 2012. The track has increased the quality of members performances allowing local youths the chance to reach the highest level. The club has seen an increased interest in the facilities resulting in increased participation and attendance by members of the local and wider community.”
PL Curran from St. Laurence O’Toole’s Athletics Club
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For further information on our LEADER projects please contact Erica Kelly.
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