Carlow County Council is delighted to announce a €4.2 million grant allocation from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport & Media under the Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund for the development of the Carlow Water Activity Centre. This ambitious project will rejuvenate Carlow Town’s riverfront, providing much-needed recreational and sporting facilities for residents, clubs, and visitors. The Centre brings to life a core objective of the Carlow County Development Plan (2022–2028), creating a water-based activity hub that will serve as a dynamic community and tourism asset for the region. The site was also identified as an opportunity for development in Project Carlow 2040 – A vision for Regeneration

“The Carlow Water Activity Centre is designed to be more than just a recreational space; it’s a long-term investment in our community’s health and connection to our natural environment. This Centre will serve as a legacy for future generations, supporting active lifestyles and instilling a lifelong appreciation for Carlow’s beautiful riverside.

“By establishing this Centre, we are creating a sustainable resource that will benefit Carlow’s young people and families for decades to come. It’s an asset that will promote a love for water sports and outdoor activity, offering more opportunities to participate to the community.”

— Cllr. Fergal Browne, Cathaoirleach, Carlow County Council

The Carlow Water Activity Centre will offer comprehensive facilities designed to support water sports and recreational activities, including secure storage for rowing and dragon boat clubs, changing rooms and rental units for water-based activities. Additional public amenities such as a terrace, public seating, and a pedestrian boardwalk linking to the Town Park will further integrate the riverfront with the town, making it a welcoming destination for all.

“The Carlow Water Activity Centre will be a place where community meets opportunity, providing residents of all ages and abilities with access to water sports, leisure facilities, and social spaces. Our vision is to create a welcoming space where people can come together, be active, and enjoy the natural beauty of Carlow’s riverfront.

“This Centre embodies Carlow County Council’s commitment to creating spaces that support health, wellbeing, and social connection. We envision it as a dynamic sporting hub that will bring people together, encourage active lifestyles, and strengthen our community ties.”

— Cllr. Fintan Phelan, Mayor Municipal District of Carlow

The project has already secured planning permission, with environmental impact assessments completed as of October 2022, and is ready to break ground. As a strategic component of Carlow’s Urban Regeneration initiative, the Water Activity Centre is set to enhance the town’s relationship with its river while supporting local tourism and the regional economy.

“The Large-Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund is critical in bringing visionary projects like the Carlow Water Activity Centre to life. This funding allows us to enhance our town’s infrastructure, create jobs, and reinvigorate our urban landscape in a way that benefits all. The Centre will play a central role in the ongoing regeneration of Carlow, adding lasting value to our community and attracting more visitors to the town.

“Investments like these in sports infrastructure not only enrich the quality of life for our residents but also drive sustainable growth. The Carlow Water Activity Centre aligns with our long-term vision of a connected, thriving town, where urban regeneration and community wellbeing go hand in hand.”

— Coilín O’Reilly, Chief Executive, Carlow County Council

This funding underscores Carlow County Council’s commitment to creating vibrant, accessible recreational spaces that encourage active lifestyles and foster community pride. Upon completion, the Carlow Water Activity Centre will stand as a key community resource, promoting health, inclusion, and sustainability for a thriving Carlow.

Kilkenny Recreation & Sports Partnership (KRSP) is excited to announce the launch of a new LGBTQ+ Awareness Training programme for sports clubs across Kilkenny and Carlow. This initiative is the result of an in-depth 2022 study that sought to understand how LGBTQ+ teens and young adults felt about inclusion in sports. The findings were significant, revealing that 80% of LGBTQ+ teens aged 13-18 in Kilkenny and Carlow had experienced or witnessed discrimination in sports settings.

In response, one of the key recommendations from this study was to offer LGBTQ+ awareness training for coaches and trainers. You can read the full report here.

To further inform this effort, KRSP reached out to local sports clubs earlier this year to gauge their awareness and understanding of LGBTQ+ issues. The results were overwhelmingly clear:

• 93% of clubs had never received any LGBTQ+ awareness training,
• 71% expressed interest in receiving such training,
• 79% requested a self-guided, online training format for convenience and accessibility.

We Listened – and We Acted.

In response to these findings, KRSP has developed a unique, on-line e Training programme with Accelerator Sport /eCoach.  This 2-hour, self-guided LGBTQ+ awareness training programme is designed specifically for sports clubs and aims to equip clubs with the knowledge and tools to create more inclusive environments for everyone.

To ensure the programme meets the needs of local clubs, KRSP is now launching a pilot phase of the training and seeking sports clubs in Kilkenny and Carlow to participate. This is a free training opportunity, and we invite one representative from each club to take part in the pilot over the next two weeks.

Pilot phase ends on Oct 25^th

We kindly request clubs complete the training by October 25th to help us enhance and refine the programme based on feedback before rolling it out more widely.  Clubs can register at KRSP.ie to take part:  https://www.krsp.ie/lgbtq-toolkit/

Together, we can make a lasting impact on inclusion and diversity in local sports.

KRSP continues to support inclusion

Commenting on this important initiative, Seamus Nugent, KRSP Sports Inclusion Development Officer said “At KRSP, we believe that education is key to combating prejudice and developing sports clubs, organisation and facilities where everyone feels safe and valued. Our new programme offers an accessible way for people to learn how they can contribute to a more inclusive sports environment, whether they are a coach, a team leader, or simply someone in the club who wants to be an ally.”

This project was funded by the Sport Ireland Evaluation Grants Scheme.

Mindfulness walking is a practice that combines the physical activity of walking with the principles of mindfulness, which involves being fully present and aware of your surroundings, thoughts, and feelings. During mindfulness walking, you focus on the sensations of your body as you move, the rhythm of your breath, and the environment around you. This practice encourages you to engage your senses—notice the sights, sounds, and smells of nature, feel the ground beneath your feet, and observe the movement of your body.

The benefits of mindfulness walking are numerous. Firstly, it can reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and helping to clear your mind. By concentrating on the present moment, you can break free from worries about the past or future. Secondly, mindfulness walking can enhance your physical health; it combines the benefits of exercise with the calming effects of mindfulness. Regular practice can improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, and increase overall well-being.

Additionally, mindfulness walking fosters a deeper connection to nature, allowing you to appreciate the changing seasons and the beauty around you. It encourages a sense of gratitude and awareness, helping you to cultivate a more positive mindset. Overall, mindfulness walking is a simple yet powerful way to enhance both your mental and physical health while enjoying the world around you.

Carlow Town has added another impressive accolade to its name, winning a gold medal at the prestigious Entente Florale Europe Awards held in Hungary. In addition to the gold, Carlow was honoured with the President’s Award and the Special Characteristic Prize, celebrating the town’s dedication to community, sustainability, and beauty. This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of local organisations, volunteers, and residents who worked tirelessly to achieve this incredible result.

The Entente Florale judges visited Carlow on 12th July, touring key spots such as St Mary’s Church, Carlow Fire Station, Hanover Park, and Delta Sensory Gardens. Carlow Sports Partnership also played an active role, joining forces with Bosom Buddies, Hen Forge, The Men’s Shed, and Forever Fit to demonstrate kettlebell exercises and activator pole walking.

This international recognition shines a spotlight on Carlow’s vibrant community spirit and ongoing commitment to enhancing public spaces and quality of life.

Carlow Sports Partnership is thrilled to announce the allocation of €136,600 from the Dormant Accounts Fund to support a wide range of community sports and physical activity projects. This funding, part of a broader national investment of over €5 million, was announced by Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin, and Minister of State for Sport, Physical Education and the Gaeltacht Thomas Byrne. It will be instrumental in promoting inclusivity, volunteerism, and physical activity in Carlow. 

National Funding Announcement 

The announcement forms part of the Dormant Accounts Fund’s 2024 allocation, which targets Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs) and organisations like Active Disability Ireland. The goal is to overcome barriers to participation in sport and physical activity, particularly for those who are economically or educationally disadvantaged, or affected by a disability. 

Minister Catherine Martin commented on the national funding programme, stating: 

“Today’s announcement of the Dormant Accounts Fund allocation will support a range of excellent work across the country and is a testament to our commitment to fostering inclusivity and well-being through sports and physical activities. This funding will empower innovative projects that support volunteers in disadvantaged areas, promote women’s participation in sports, and provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities.”
 

Carlow’s Share of the Dormant Accounts Fund 

Carlow Sports Partnership has been awarded €136,600, with the funding set to be distributed across several key initiatives aimed at making sport and physical activity accessible to all: 

• Community Sports Hubs: Dormant Accounts Funding will be allocated to the 38 existing nationwide hubs that are part of the five-year funding period (2020–2024). 

• Training & Education: This initiative supports learners from socio-economically disadvantaged communities, diverse backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities who wish to enhance their skills. 

• Volunteer Supports: Aims to identify and assist volunteers working in disadvantaged communities or with people with disabilities, helping them gain leadership skills in community sport and physical activities (e.g., coaches, leaders, referees, committee members). 

• Sports Inclusion Disability Projects (SIDP): Focuses on reducing barriers to sports participation for people with disabilities through minor infrastructure developments, increasing participation opportunities in Carlow. 

• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: Supports projects addressing obstacles to participation for individuals in diverse communities, promoting accessibility and inclusion in sports. 

Dr Úna May, CEO of Sport Ireland, added: 

“We are very happy to announce this investment package of €5.1 million as part of our continuing commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in sports and physical activities across Ireland. This funding is all about bridging gaps, ensuring everyone can lead active, healthier lives regardless of their background.” 

Ministerial Support for ‘Sport for All’ 

In announcing the Dormant Accounts Funding, Minister Thomas Byrne highlighted the importance of grassroots initiatives in fostering a more active, healthier Ireland. He said: 

“The Olympics and Paralympics have provided us with so many memorable sporting moments, but involvement in sport begins at the grassroots level. This €5 million allocation represents a significant milestone in our efforts to make sport accessible to all members of our community.” 

Byrne’s emphasis on grassroots involvement resonates strongly with Carlow Sports Partnership’s mission to use sport as a means of community development. The funding will empower projects that directly address the barriers many people face in participating in physical activities, particularly in disadvantaged areas, women’s sports, and sports inclusion for people with disabilities. 

Impact of the Dormant Accounts Fund on Carlow 

The €136,600 in funding will have a positive impact on Carlow’s communities, particularly those who are marginalised or underrepresented in sport. By investing in training, volunteerism, and inclusivity, this funding will provide long-term benefits such as: 

• Health & Well-being: Increased participation in physical activity leads to better mental and physical health, reducing issues such as obesity, anxiety, and social isolation. 

• Inclusive Opportunities: Programmes targeted at women, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities will ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in sport and physical activity. 

• Volunteer Growth: Supporting volunteers is key to sustaining the local sports ecosystem, ensuring that community-led activities continue to thrive. 

What’s Next for Carlow Sports Partnership? 

Carlow Sports Partnership is committed to using this funding to create meaningful, long-lasting opportunities for people across the county. The combination of national and local support will enable the partnership to: 

• Expand current projects aimed at removing barriers to sport. 

• Develop new initiatives that promote participation in underrepresented groups. 

• Continue building a more inclusive and diverse sporting community in Carlow. 

By ensuring that everyone has access to the benefits of sport, Carlow Sports Partnership is helping to create a healthier, more active county for years to come.

Access For All Walk Day

Join us for an inclusive and accessible walk through the beautiful surroundings of Oak Park as part of the European Week of Sport! The “Access For All Walk Day” is open to everyone, regardless of age or ability, offering a welcoming environment to enjoy the outdoors together. Whether you walk, hike, run, push, or roll, this event is all about getting active and enjoying nature at your own pace.

Booking is essential, so please secure your spot. Let’s make this a day to remember—come along, bring friends, and be part of a community that celebrates inclusivity in sport and recreation.

#WalkHikeRunPushRoll #EuropeanWeekOfSport

For more information contact jdempsey@carlowcoco.ie

Explore the Columban Way with Carlow Sports Partnership

August 17th – September 21st 2024
Explore the serene beauty and rich heritage of the Columban Way during Heritage Week as we follow in the footsteps of the inspirational sixth-century monk, St. Columbanus. Born at the foothills of Mount Leinster in County Carlow, this transformative walk covering in total some 570km promises time and space for quiet reflection and a peaceful journey through some of Ireland’s most picturesque landscapes. Participants can choose to walk the entire route, complete the full County Carlow stretch, or enjoy specific sections for a single or multiple day trip.

Walk Schedule

Day 1: St. Mullins to Borris

Starting at the ancient monastic site of St. Mullins, this stretch of the Columban Way takes you through a landscape steeped in early Christian heritage. St. Mullins, named after St. Moling, is an important pilgrimage site with its well-preserved ecclesiastical ruins and holy well, offering a spiritual beginning to your journey. The walk to Borris winds along the scenic Barrow Way, reflecting the serene beauty and historical significance of this ancient route. Borris itself, with its 18th-century Borris House, provides a glimpse into Ireland’s noble past and the enduring legacy of the MacMurrough Kavanagh dynasty.

• Bus Departing: 9:15 AM from Borris Mart Car Park
• Walk Departing: 10:00 AM from St. Mullins Car Park at Columban Way Sign
• Distance: 20.1 km
• Refreshments Served at: Joyce’s Pub

Day 2: Two Walk Options

1. Borris to Myshall

Starting from the historic town of Borris, this stretch of the Columban Way leads you through scenic countryside to Myshall, a village steeped in religious heritage. Along the route, enjoy the lush landscapes and the backdrop of Mount Leinster. In Myshall, explore the Adelaide Memorial Church and St. Finnian’s Church, reflecting the area’s deep spiritual history.

1. • Bus Departing: 9:15 AM from Myshall Community Centre
   • Walk Departing: 10:00 AM from Borris Mart Car Park
   • Distance: 19.7 km
   • Refreshments Served at: Myshall Community Centre
2. Bunclody to Myshall

From Bunclody, set against the picturesque Blackstairs Mountains, this path takes you to Myshall. The journey showcases the natural beauty and rolling hills of the region, culminating in Myshall’s historical landmarks like the Adelaide Memorial Church, providing a rich blend of cultural and spiritual significance

• • Bus Departing: 9:15 AM from Myshall Community Centre
  • Walk Departing: 10:00 AM from Bunclody Library
  • Distance: 21.84 km
  • Refreshments Served at: Myshall Community Centre

Day 3: Myshall to Leighlinbridge

Departing from the serene village of Myshall, this segment of the Columban Way takes you to Leighlinbridge, a village known for its historical significance and beautiful settings along the River Barrow. Leighlinbridge is home to the Black Castle, dating back to the Norman era, and the exquisite Garden of Remembrance, which honours Ireland’s rich heritage. This walk reflects the blend of natural beauty and deep historical roots, making it a contemplative journey through time.

• Bus Departing: 9:15 AM from Leighlinbridge
• Walk Departing: 10:00 AM from Myshall Community Centre
• Distance: 22 km
• Refreshments Served at: Lord Bagenal Hotel

Day 4: Leighlinbridge to Carlow

Continuing from Leighlinbridge, this walk brings you to the bustling town of Carlow, crossing a landscape that has witnessed centuries of history. Carlow, with its impressive cathedral and Carlow Castle, stands as a testament to the region’s strategic importance in medieval times. The route offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks, inviting pilgrims to reflect on the journey’s spiritual and cultural significance.

• Bus Departing: 9:15 AM from Carlow Town Hall
• Walk Departing: 10:00 AM from Leighlinbridge
• Distance: 19.2 km
• Refreshments Served at: Seven Oaks Hotel

Day 5: Carlow to Athy

The final stretch from Carlow to Athy leads you through the heart of Ireland’s ancient landscapes. Athy, a heritage town on the banks of the River Barrow, has a rich history dating back to the Anglo-Norman period. The town’s numerous historical sites, including the White Castle and St. Michael’s Church, underscore its importance as a centre of medieval activity. This segment of the Columban Way encapsulates the enduring spiritual and historical essence of the pilgrimage, concluding the journey in a place of deep heritage and natural charm.

• Bus Departing: 9:15 AM from Athy Sports Hub
• Walk Departing: 10:00 AM from Carlow Town Hall
• Distance: 18.1 km
• Refreshments Served at: Athy Sports Hub

Ticket Information

• Single Walk Ticket: €10 per walk
• Full 5-Day Pass: €40 for all 5 days

We offer both guided and self-guided walk options. All tickets include food and bus transfer. Please indicate on the checkout form if you do not wish to avail of the bus.

Important Information

All walkers must read and agree to the Leave No Trace principles and the event safety plan and walker guide. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone while preserving the beautiful trails we will be exploring.

We look forward to welcoming you on this incredible journey along the Columban Way. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, this event promises breathtaking scenery, historical insights, and a wonderful community spirit.