Carlow Strikes Gold at Entente Florale Europe Awards
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.
€136,600 Dormant Accounts Funding Secured for Carlow Sports Partnership
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:
| Hubs | Training & Education | Volunteer Supports | Sports Inclusion Disability Projects | Her Moves | Equality, Diversity & Inclusion | Total |
| €47,500 | €20,000 | €15,000 | €30,500 | €5,000 | €18,600 | €136,600 |
- 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
Access For All Walk Day
Wed 25 Sep 2024 10:00 – 12:00
Oak Park, Carlow
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
Columban Way Walkers Guidelines
Columban Way Walkers Guidelines
During August and September 2024, a long-distance walk will take place between St. Mullins in County Carlow and Bangor in County Down. This all-island walk is 356 miles long with the route forming part of the European Columban Way which passes through England, France, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Liechtenstein, and Italy. The Columban Way retraces the journey of the sixth century Saint Columbanus who travelled from his home at the foothills of Mount Leinster in County Carlow, to Bangor in County Down. There he founded a famous monastery and resided for ten years before departing for Europe where he founded many other monasteries including those at Luxeuil in France and Bobbio in Italy where he died in 615 AD.
The Carlow stretch of this walk takes place from Saturday 17th August to Wednesday 21st August 2024 and is being held as part of Heritage Week. This Walker Guideline has been prepared for the purpose of assisting with the safe and efficient management of the Columban Way to be held from Saturday 17th August – Wednesday 21st August 2024 in various locations throughout County Carlow.
The Carlow event is being organised by various parties and agencies: Carlow Sports Partnership, Carlow County Council, Friends of Columbanus Republic of Ireland, Myshall Muintir na Tíre and Carlow Tourism.
Hill walking, climbing and rambling are activities that can be dangerous and may result in personal injury or death. The Organisers will accept and show a duty of care for the safety of all participants with all necessary precautions taken to ensure the safety of attendees, volunteers and staff who will be working at the event. Carlow Sports Partnership undertakes to co-ordinate and manage all activities taking place over the duration of the walk. In the event of first aid/medical emergencies the services of Carlow Civil Defence and South-East Mountain Rescue Services will be deployed. All walkers have been issued with the rules of participation and are asked to inform the Organisers of any medical condition, injury or medication needed. Clear guidelines are issued to advise walkers that they have the required level of fitness to complete the different walks.
The Organisers have identified a number of potential incidents that may occur throughout the course of the walk and have completed a risk assessment. All relevant organisations have been informed of the Columban Way Walk.
The full ‘Schedule of Walks’ and ‘Guidelines for Walkers’ are available here.
The Organisers confirm they have taken recommendations from all Codes of Practice that might be deemed relevant to this event including:
- Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
- Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 to 2021.
- Fire Services Act 1981 and 2003
- Occupiers Liability Act 1995
- Code of Practice for Management of Fire Safety in Places of Assembly – issued by the Department of the Environment
- HSE Guidance Document 154 (2000) Managing Safety at Outdoor Events
General Points
- The terrain will be rough in parts and surefootedness will be required.
- Ground conditions may be wet in parts and your feet may get wet.
- Weather conditions can change and can be more severe on mountainous areas than in the lowlands.
- Routes will be changed if circumstances, such as a change in weather, require it.
Details relating to walk leaders and guides in respect of the guided walk option
- For the guided walk option there will be a leader for each walk with a number of assistants. They are experienced hill walkers.
- The leaders’ decisions are to be respected.
- Participants must remain with the leaders.
- Anyone who wishes to leave the walk must inform the leader beforehand. Mountain Rescue will be called out for walkers who are missing without explanation.
- Anyone who wishes to stop temporarily or take a break should inform the leaders first.
- The walk will proceed at the pace of the slowest.
- Participants with a medical condition that is relevant should inform the leader in confidence.
- Participants will receive the mobile number of the walk leader in the bus on the way to the start of the walk each morning
- If a problem arises and participants are separated from their leaders they should phone them or the organisers. Texting often works in areas with poor reception.
- In case of serious problem or injury in the absence of the leaders and where they are not contactable ring 999/112 and ask for Mountain Rescue.
Recommended Food and Drink required on the walk
- Water
- Hot drink
- Sandwiches for lunch
- Energy bars etc.
Please note that at the end of each walk, soup, sandwiches and tea/coffee will be provided for all walkers.
Columban Way
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
- 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.
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- 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
- 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
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- 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.
Wellbeing Playday 2024
Wellbeing Playday 2024
Playday is back and bigger than before. Join us for an exciting and fun-filled Wellbeing Play Day 2024 at Carlow College, St. Patrick’s, on Saturday, July 20th! This year’s theme, ‘Time to Play,’ promises a day of creativity, movement, and mindfulness for all ages.
We have a variety of engaging activities lined up to ensure a fantastic experience for everyone:
- Build and Fly Your Own Kite: Create and soar your very own kite in the skies.
- Yoga and Movement Sessions: Energising and relaxing yoga classes for both kids and adults.
- Storytelling with Carlow Library: Immerse yourself in enchanting tales.
- Mindfulness for Children: Learn how to engage kids in mindfulness practices.
- 5 Ways to Wellbeing: Discover simple ways to improve mental and social wellbeing.
- Shadow Puppet Workshop: Kids will have the opportunity to design and create their own shadow puppets, then bring them to life in the puppet theatre with an exciting show.
- Magic Shows with Joe the Magician: Joe presents two of the most watched shows on RTÉjr and on the RTÉ player – abraKIDabra and Dizzy Deliveries.
- Picture Orienteering: Embark on an exciting picture orienteering adventure! Participants will use maps and picture clues to navigate and find hidden locations around the area.
- Old School Games: Rediscover the joy of traditional games with our Old School Games session!
Whether you’re a child, teenager, adult, or caregiver, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Come and be a part of this wonderful community event, meet new people, and most importantly, take some ‘Time to Play’! Details of booking and links below.
Celebrate a day filled with enriching activities for all ages! Whether you’re looking to relax, get creative, or engage in mindfulness, we’ve got something for everyone. Here’s what’s happening:
Build and Fly Your Own Kite
Date: Saturday, July 20th
Time: Various
Venue: Carlow College, St. Patrick’s
Unleash your creativity and enjoy the thrill of kite flying:
- Design Your Kite: Draw or trace your favourite patterns and bring them to life with vibrant colours.
- Build Your Kite: Assemble your kite with our easy-to-follow instructions.
- Fly Your Kite: Watch your creation soar in the sky.
Booking: Must be booked in advance. Click here to book your place.
Arrival: Please arrive at your designated time
Kids Yoga and Movement
Time: 11:30 – 12:00
Venue: Visual (located at the Bar area)
Bring your little ones for a delightful session of yoga and movement:
- Booking: Must be booked in advance.
- Click here to book your place.
Adults Yoga and Movement
Time: 12:15 – 12:45
Venue: Visual (located at the Bar area)
Take some time for yourself with our adults yoga class:
- Booking: Must be booked in advance.
- Click here to book your place.
Adults Journaling and Meditation
Time: 1:00 – 1:30
Venue: Visual (located at the Bar area)
Explore your inner world with our journaling and meditation session:
- Booking: Must be booked in advance.
- Click here to book your place.
Make your own Shadow Puppet, for ages 6+
Times: 11 – 12, 12:30 – 1:30, 2 – 3
Venue: Visual
Join Artist Marian Balfe in the gallery to make shadow puppets, take them to the puppet theatre and put on a show!
- Booking: Must be booked in advance.
- Click here to book your place
Story Telling with Carlow Library
Times: 1:30 – 1:50; 2:00 – 2:20
Venue: On the Green, St Patrick’s
Immerse yourself in enchanting tales with Carlow Library: Suitable for kids of all ages (all kids must be accompanied by an adult).
- Booking: Walk in
Mindfulness for Children
Time: 12:00 – 12:30
Venue: Visual – Theatre
Join Catherine from Carlow Mental Health Association for a session on mindfulness for children which may be of interest to parents, grandparents, caregivers or teachers.
- Booking: Walk in
5 Ways to Wellbeing
Time: 12:45 – 1:15
Venue: Visual – Theatre
Learn how to enhance your wellbeing with Carlow Mental Health Association:
- Booking: Walk in
Magic Shows with Joe the Magician
Join Joe the Magician, star of RTÉjr’s abraKIDabra and Dizzy Deliveries, for an enchanting and entertaining magic show! Joe’s captivating performances are some of the most watched on RTÉjr and the RTÉ Player, promising a magical experience for all ages.
Show Times:
- 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM
- 12:15 PM – 1:00 PM
- 2:20 PM – 3:00 PM
Venue: On the Green, St. Patricks
Cost: Free (Walk-in)
Prepare to be amazed by Joe’s incredible tricks and magical wonders!
Booking Information:
For activities that require advance booking, please ensure to reserve your spot early to avoid disappointment. Walk-in activities are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Join us for a wonderful day of community, creativity, and wellbeing! We look forward to seeing you there!
Last Years Event Gallery
