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
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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. |
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