The lack of track & field facilities on Leeside has been a talking point this year, with the temporary closure of both the Mardyke and MTU facilities highlighting the need for alternative options. A huge amount of work has been done in the past 12 months by CEASC (Cork East Athletics Sporting Community) in developing interest in an ultra-modern 400m track and associated facilities in their region, with this energetic group leaving no stone upturned in their ambitions to see the project become reality.

A Vibrant Community Hub

Next Saturday a major fundraiser will be held when East Cork's Fittest Superstars is coordinated by Davy Fitzgerald at Aghada GAA Grounds in Rostellan. This vibrant event is expected to be a major boost for CEASC's ambitious plans.

The CEASC need to identify a suitable site and generate funds for a project that will cost €2.5 million. Next Saturday's East Cork event will give them a much-needed financial injection and there are many ways to help and show support for the project. A draw includes fabulous prizes such as a pair of spikes worn by Sonia O'Sullivan and Munster rugby tickets. 

A Fun Day for All

The upcoming sporting spectacular takes place at the picturesque venue on the edge of Cork harbour and Eirgrid have come on board as main sponsors. There will also be a juvenile sports day, catering for children of all ages. The entire occasion is being billed as a fun day, with refreshments galore available on the grounds. Activity commences from 9.30am and with over 30 teams registered it will be 5pm before the prizes are given out.

Catherine Carroll of the organising committee has urged the sporting public to support the event and ultimately back the CEASC model to build the very best facilities in East Cork and create a home for the sport in the region. The project is also about developing a vibrant community hub that caters for the diverse need of the local people. 

“What an atmosphere we have in the build-up to the event - it has been so lovely to get the whole sporting community involved. There couldn't be a better time to put a call out for support after all the excitement the Olympics created. We do really need our community to get behind us now. 

“This is not for us, but for the kids that we are coaching and their kids in the years ahead.

“We want a home for athletics in East Cork and a safe place for everyone to train. All eleven clubs in the division are willing to share the proposed new facility. Everybody involved in this group knows we are resource-poor when it comes to athletics. Hopefully by us hosting this fundraising event, the public awareness will further increase. 

“Once we get our site, we can apply for grants, but we need match money for that to happen, so our fundraising is absolutely key.”

The Importance of a New Athletics Facility

The lack of adequate track and field facilities in East Cork has been a major obstacle for athletes in the region. The closure of the Mardyke and MTU facilities has further exacerbated the situation, leaving many athletes without a proper place to train. The new facility will provide a much-needed solution to this problem, offering athletes of all ages and abilities a safe and modern place to train and compete.

The proposed facility is more than just a track and field complex. It is envisioned as a vibrant community hub that caters to the diverse needs of the local people. The facility will provide a space for athletics training and competition, but it will also be available for other sports and activities, such as walking, running, and social events. The goal is to create a space that is welcoming and accessible to everyone in the community.

A Call for Community Support

CEASC has set its sights on building a world-class facility for East Cork. This ambitious project requires significant funding, and the organization is calling on the community to rally behind its vision. By supporting the East Cork's Fittest Superstars fundraiser, community members can help make this dream a reality. The event is a chance for people to come together, celebrate sports, and make a difference in the lives of young athletes in the region. The success of the fundraiser will be a testament to the community's commitment to supporting athletics and creating a vibrant and active community for all.