4/7/2024
To: Members of Company Dear Member, I wish to advise that the 53rd Annual General Meeting of the Community Games CLG will take place in the Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone on Saturday the 21st September 2024. Registration at 10.30am, AGM to commence at 11am. All Company Members are entitled to attend the AGM. Each County may select three Company Members as delegates to the AGM. One of these members must be the County member of the National Executive Advisory Committee for 2023. Nominations will be done via the On Line Registration System (ORS), which will open in August. There will be Motions and Recommendations for discussion at this year’s AGM and can be submitted by the on line Google form. Thank you for your co-operation. Yours sincerely, Phyllis Farrell Company Secretary
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This past weekend, 8th and 9th June, The Watershed in Kilkenny was brimming with energy and enthusiasm as 1,200 children participated in the Cairn Community Games June finals. With national Swimming, Gymnastics and Quiz competitions, the finals showcased the exceptional talent, community spirit, and sportsmanship of children from across the country. The weekend extended beyond competition, transforming into a busy hub of fun and camaraderie. Children, cheered on by their families, friends, coaches, and a dedicated team of volunteers, showcased their passion and enjoyment throughout the event. The lively atmosphere reflected the spirit of togetherness and celebration that defines Cairn Community Games. Cairn Community Games has many notable past participants including Olympic swimmers Mona McSharry and Nicholas Quinn. These role models serve as an inspiration to the children this weekend that they too can achieve their goals and dreams. Tom Noonan, Head of Marketing at Cairn, expressed his pride in the event and the company's role as the title sponsor: “Cairn, proud title sponsor of Cairn Community Games, will invest €3 million over a four-year partnership. This is a perfect fit given the Company’s deep commitment to creating sustainable communities where people in Ireland can thrive. Over the course of this partnership, Cairn commits to increasing overall participation by 10% and delivering a support programme that enhances the competition and drives participation and awareness.” Allen Parker, Chief Customer Officer at Bus Éireann, remarked: “We are proud to support Cairn Community Games and encourage everyone to use public transport when attending their events. Best of luck to all participants.” Gillian Clarke, Marketing Director at Fit Foods, added: “Fit Foods is proud to support Cairn Community Games, promoting health and wellbeing. It’s a joy to see such commitment from all involved.” Gerry McGuinness, President of Cairn Community Games, expressed his delight:“The Cairn Community Games June Finals have been a resounding success, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of our young participants. The joy and excitement this weekend highlight the importance of community and engaging in diverse activities from a young age. A big thank you to all the volunteers, families, and sponsors for their unwavering support.” Cairn Community Games Regional Athletics, National Track and Field, Outdoor Teams and Arts and Cultural Finals will take place in August and September with thousands more children expected to take part Eve McCrystal has achieved many successes in her sporting career but many aren't aware of the impact that Cairn Community Games had on her journey to Olympic success. Eve's cycling journey was influenced by her participation in the Community Games during her formative years. McCrystal credits Community Games for allowing her to experience ''a wide range of sporting activities in a fun environment and developing a wide range of skills that you can carry throughout your life''. Join us as we uncover Eve McCrystal's journey from Cairn Community Games to cycling success: What initially drew your attention to competitive cycling, and how has your passion for the sport evolved over the years? I didn’t plan to be competitive in cycling. I was cycling for fun and just happened to be good at it. I didn’t start taking things seriously until I was 34 years of age. I took part in the national championships which was held in Carlingford in 2013. I won the bronze medal and on the back of that I was approached by Cycling Ireland to try out for the pilot position on the tandem. I haven’t looked back since. I am extremely passionate about my sport and as the years went on, I became competitive, so this changed things. My sport is part of my life. This is my 10th year and I’m just as passionate today as I was all those years ago. How do you believe events like Cairn Community Games contribute to fostering participation and interest levels among young adults, particularly in cycling? When I was younger, I took part in Community Games at Monsey. I loved swimming and this was my first experience of competition. I remember it like it was yesterday. A brilliant experience in a safe environment with like-minded people. This is what it’s all about being part of a community, having fun learning new skills and experiencing a wide range of sporting activities. Cycling is a sport where from a young age you develop a wide range of skills that you can carry throughout your life. Other kids will have the opportunity to see the bikes and maybe get interested in trying out the sport. The sport will grow and grow once its visible to our young people. Cairn Community Games provides this. As a role model for aspiring athletes, what advice would you offer to children looking to achieve success similar to yours? I have two daughters and I tell them that you must find something outside of school and the house that you are passionate about. It doesn’t matter what sport it is. Try everything when you’re younger. There are a variety of sports that you can take part in, try them all! Enjoy it laugh with your friends. It’s so important to have different groups of friends and sport offers this outside of education. Many of our coaches are volunteers. What piece of advice you would give them to ensure they have a positive impact on children’s lives and create an inclusive environment for all participants? It has to be fun and volunteers need to encourage this. Learning the basics of riding a bike like going around or over obstacles safely and learning how to control a bike while going fast are extremely important. There are lots of different types of cycling like BMX Mountain Biking Cyclocross, something for everyone. Cycling is also an inclusive sport and we have a brilliant Paracycling programme in Ireland where all kids with disabilities are welcome. If you could turn back time and take part in any Cairn Community Games events apart from cycling, which one would you choose and why? I would without a doubt go back to swimming. One of the most important skills any child can learn. On behalf of Cairn Community Games, we would like to thank Eve McCrystal for taking the time to do this interview with us and wish her every success in her career and beyond. This past weekend, Gormanston, Co. Meath and Kenagh, Co. Longford were alive with energy and enthusiasm as 1,400 children participated in the Cairn Community Games May finals. From Badminton to Indoor Soccer, Cross Country to Rugby 7s, the diverse range of events showcased the remarkable talent, community spirit and sportsmanship of children from across the country. The weekend was not just about competition; it was a celebration of community, engagement, and above all, enthusiasm. The excitement of the games was evident as children, supported by their families, friends, coaches, and a dedicated team of volunteers, participated with passion, camaraderie and fun. Adding to the atmosphere, there was an array of entertainment throughout the weekend, including stilt walkers, face-painting, fun games, a treasure hunt and a vibrant carnival. Tom Noonan, Head of Marketing at Cairn, expressed his pride in the event and the company's role as the title sponsor: “Cairn, proud title sponsor of Cairn Community Games, will invest €3 million over a four-year partnership. This is a perfect fit given the Company’s deep commitment to creating sustainable communities where people in Ireland can thrive. Over the course of this partnership, Cairn commits to increasing overall participation by 10% and delivering a support programme that enhances the competition and drives participation and awareness.” The games also featured special visits from other national governing bodies and sports figures. Olympic Handball Ireland engaged children and adults alike, offering fun and accessible demonstrations on how to play the sport. As part of Bike Week, Cycling Ireland visited, providing fun activities to the children taking part in Cycling on Grass. Matt and John Devine, former Community Games medallists now with Connacht Rugby, shared their inspiring journey with some young X Rugby 7 players. They talked about how they were first introduced to the world of rugby through Community Games and offered valuable tips - emphasising the importance of perseverance and embracing failure at times as part of the game. Allen Parker, Chief Customer Officer at Bus Éireann, remarked: “We are proud to support Cairn Community Games and encourage everyone to use public transport when attending their events. Best of luck to all participants.” Gillian Clarke, Marketing Director at Fit Foods, added: “Fit Foods is proud to support Cairn Community Games, promoting health and wellbeing. It’s a joy to see such commitment from all involved.” Gerry McGuinness, President of Cairn Community Games, shared his enthusiasm: “The Cairn Community Games May Finals have been a tremendous success, showcasing the dedication and talent of our young children. The joy and excitement seen this weekend highlights the importance of community and taking part in a range of different activities when you’re young. A huge thank you to all the volunteers, families, and sponsors for their unwavering support. Now it’s time to rest, but not for long – in just two weeks our Swimming, Gymnastics and Quiz finals will take place in Kilkenny! The success of the Cairn Community Games May finals was made possible by the tireless efforts of volunteers, coaches, and referees whose dedication and energy facilitated a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. The event highlighted the enthusiasm and sportsmanship of the children, whose dedication and joy in participating are the heart and soul of Cairn Community Games. For more information about the Cairn Community Games and upcoming events, please visit www.cairncommunitygames.ie Our May National Festival promises to be a busy and fun weekend with finals ranging from Basketball to X Rugby 7's and plenty to do for all the family. We look foward to seeing you there! Find out MORE AT OUR WEBPAGE
There are 3 venues:
Today marks a significant milestone for Carlow as it proudly becomes home for some of the Cairn Community Games National Festivals until 2028: The Track and Field Finals in Carlow SETU, the Outdoor Teams Finals in Carlow SETU and the Arts and Cultural Weekend in Visual Carlow and on the grounds of St Patrick's College, Carlow College. Amidst the tranquil setting of Delta Sensory Gardens, representatives from Cairn Community Games, SETU, Visual Carlow and Carlow Community Games gathered to unveil Carlow's designation as the host for these three major Festivals a year until 2028. This decision reflects a shared commitment to fostering community engagement and sporting and artistic participation, promising a vibrant platform for celebrating talent and camaraderie. Building upon its legacy of excellence and renowned for its top-notch facilities, South East Technological University (SETU) wil become home to the Athletics and Outdoor Teams National Festival Events. Reflecting on the success of the past year’s events held in SETU Carlow, Gerry McGuiness, President of Cairn Community Games, highlights the August 2024 weekend in SETU as a culmination of achievements and a celebration for all involved. He notes that track events will be once again streamed globally, reaching hundreds of thousands of viewers, enhancing the excitement and excitement of the occasion. David Denieffe, Vice President of SETU Carlow added: “We are delighted that Carlow has once again been chosen as the home for the Cairn Community Games Arts, Athletics and Outdoor Team National Finals. At South East Technological University we have a great relationship with Cairn Community Games and our partners in Carlow. We look forward to the provision of the Outdoor Team and Athletics events on our South Sports Campus and to the best event possible.” The VISUAL Centre for Contemporary Art and George Bernard Shaw Theatre and the grounds of St. Patrick's Carlow College will serve as the vibrant hub for the eagerly anticipated Cairn Community Games Arts and Cultural Weekend. Here, participants from all corners of Ireland will converge to exhibit their talents in various disciplines, promising a spectacle of creativity and artistry in stunning surround and settings! "Carlow College, St Patrick's is proud to be one of the host organisations for the Community Games for the coming years. The College has a long history of working closely with community groups, and promoting arts and culture within Carlow. We are looking forward to welcoming all the range of events that will be hosted on our campus," commented Averil Lawler, Facilities Manager, Carlow College, St Patrick's. Gerry McGuinness expressed gratitude to the local authorities and venue hosts for their unwavering support, stating, "These partnerships underscore our shared commitment to fostering community spirit. We are thrilled to bring these events to Carlow, providing thousands of children with the opportunity to come together, celebrate, and proudly represent their counties, creating cherished memories for years to come." As Carlow prepares to host these events in 2024, anticipation mounts for a vibrant celebration of talent, sportsmanship, and community spirit. Cairn Community Games offers a diverse array of events to an estimated 160,000 children from across the Republic of Ireland. These events culminate in National Festivals, where approximately 9,000 children will showcase their skills and represent their counties with pride. For more information on how to get involved, visit www.cairncommunitygames.ie Phyllis Farrell, Cairn Community Games Director, Derek Blanche, Events Manager Visual Carlow, Gerry McGuinness, Cairn Community Games President, Emma Lucy O'Brien, CEO Visual Carlow, and front row from left, Michael Walker, SETU Sport, Averil Lawler, Carlow College St Patricks, Paul Doogue, Cairn Community Games Deputy President and Paula Hickey, SETU Sport Our List of Events is ready for DOWNLOAD and print so feel free to use for your Area/County. it's a handy document to refer to if you need to know quickly how many can be on a panel or what are the age categories - and remember, you can can find out your child's eligibility by visiting our Age Calculator. Best of luck to all the children are more importantly we want you to have fun! Download our List of Events for 2024
Fit Foods are thrilled to announce their category partnership with Cairn Community Games as their Official Food Partner. Cairn Community Games promotes active, healthy lifestyles, wellbeing, diversity, and inclusion for families, schools, and communities across Ireland. “It’s a perfect match, as we share the same values and commitment to promoting health and wellbeing in communities across the country” says Gillian Clarke, Marketing Director of Fit Foods. “Fit Foods is proud to fuel the games where we will be offering free Fit Foods’ samples to participants, volunteers, and attendees at Community Games National Final events throughout the year”. The ethos of Fit Foods is ‘Fit for Life’ recognising the busy nature of everyday life, particularly for active families. “We know people are short on time and there’s not always the opportunity to plan healthy meals or to sit together and eat as a family. Far too often, quick and convenient options are the unhealthy route. Our range of ready meals are designed to be easier, healthier, and tastier - high in protein, low in fat and above all convenient - meaning that you can trust that our meals will always taste great and provide a healthier alternative to take-always or other ready meals– especially on the days when you’re short on time”
Gerry McGuiness Cairn Community Games President shared ‘’We are delighted to welcome Fit Foods to the Cairn Community Games family. Our families and volunteers lead very busy lives where time is precious and schedules are packed, so clever convenient nourishment on the go is a win for us’’ David Hoysted CEO of Cairn Community Games also welcomed this new partnership and looks forward to the inclusion of Fit Foods at the upcoming National All Ireland Final events this year. ‘’Through the sampling of products, participants and spectators alike will have the opportunity to experience first-hand the nourishment and sustenance that Fit Foods brings to the table’’ Fit Foods is Ireland’s Number 1 branded ready meal available in most major supermarkets and convenience stores. In recent years, Fit Foods has expanded its offerings to include gut friendly yogurts to high-protein puddings, and even a cook-at home high protein meat range ensuring quick, healthier solutions for every eating occasion. Take a look at our brand new campaign - We''re All In We'll be on TV, Radio and plenty of billboards throughout Irealnd - if you spot us - take a photo and tag us in it and we'll be happy to share on our socials! Hector O’Brien, aged 11, Chief Customer Officer, Bus Éireann, Allen Parker, Alice Kamgang, aged 14, CEO of Community Games, David Hoysted, Pearl O’Brien, aged 13, Amelia Carmody, aged 13, with Marketing and Sponsorships lead Grainne O' Shea and CEO of Cairn Community Games, David Hoysted. Photo: Damien Eagers
Cairn Community Games has a history of connecting communities through a large programme of arts and sporting events for children. Community is very important to Bus Éireann providing connectivity across the island of Ireland, providing bus services to over 90 million passengers in 2023. In renewing our sponsorship of the Games, Bus Éireann is also particularly proud to partner with Cairn, who share the same ambition of increasing participation as well as enhancing diversity and inclusion through the medium of sport and other activities. At the Games, there is something for everyone – no matter the interest, ability, or talent. Bus Éireann’s significant support of the Cairn Community Games is a perfect fit given the company’s strong commitment to sustainability in communities across Ireland. The company is pleased to be involved in the efforts to make this year’s events some of the best so far – highlighting our shared goal of developing healthy lifestyles in a safe and fun environment. Gerry McGuinness President of Cairn Community Games said: “We are delighted to see TFI and Bus Eireann return as official Travel Partner to Cairn Community Games this year. Their commitment to communities all over Ireland sits very well with our own values. Their belief and support in Cairn Community Games is a testament to the wonderful work carried out by our Area’s and volunteers at grass roots level.’’ David Hoysted CEO of Cairn Community Games said: “Communities is at the core of what we deliver so having TFI and Bus Eireann as key partners is very significant. We look forward to working on many key campaigns together enhancing our offering to communities and volunteers throughout the year’’# Allen Parker, Chief Customer Officer, Bus Éireann said: “Bus Éireann is at the heart of communities across the island of Ireland. We are immensely proud to be renewing our sponsorship with Cairn Community Games as official travel partners for the fifth consecutive year. Last year, we transported over 99 million passengers and operated more than 225 million kilometres representing the largest public transport network in the country. We are delighted to renew our partnership with Cairn Community Games and to provide and encourage the use of public transport to the thousands of children and volunteers who participate in the games nationwide.” |
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