Wexford Athletics advises caution as some restrictions eased

WEXFORD ATHLETES are looking forward to their first formal group training sessions since the Covid-19 lockdown commenced in March.

Athletics Ireland has announced that, as part of phase one of the roadmap for re-opening society and in accordance with specific government guidelines, all clubs can return to some limited activity from yesterday (Monday).

Athletics is one of the first sports to receive Sport Ireland and Government endorsement to return to activity.

It is a key strategic sport in improving the health of the nation, and the recent study detailing the huge increases in people walking and running in the last two months illustrates the necessity to open our club outdoor facilities.

A strict set of guidelines is in place.

People can engage in outdoor sporting and fitness activities, either individually or in very small groups (maximum four people), where social distancing can be maintained and where there is no contact.

Only those living within a five km radius of their athletic club can attend to train. Indoor training is not permitted.

For the purpose of contact tracing, a full record must be kept of all those attending training sessions.

Athletes attending training must be at least 13 years and under 70 years. A parent/guardian should accompany those under 18 years.

Athletes may be asked to attend at a pre-reserved time.

The onus is on clubs to ensure guidelines are followed, particularly regarding the numbers congregating at any one time (remember: max. four people!). Anyone attending training must not have been out of the country in the previous 14 days.

With every club having its own unique set of Covid-19 challenges around social distancing, contact tracing, hygiene and member management, Athletics Ireland is advising that each club committee meets virtually to develop their plans for a return to athletics.

Part of this process will be the preparation of a risk assessment plan to ensure the highest standards of hygiene and personal safety are maintained.

Hamish Adams, Athletics Ireland C.E.O., noted: ‘It is a privilege for us to be one of the first sports returning to club activity and with this privilege comes a great responsibility to ensure all our clubs and members operate to the highest standards of compliance to prevent the further spread of Covid-19.

‘This is the first small step on our journey to return to full activity, we continue to plan and prepare for competition and events from August onwards subject to government directives.’

Athletics Ireland is emphatic on the need for clubs to stay within the guidelines to ensure the health and safety of its members.

Non-adherence to the guidelines may negatively impact on a club’s insurance cover.

On account of the current extraordinary circumstances, Athletics Ireland has secured additional cover for virtual races/ runs/walks and for remote group training.

In the first case, cover extends to events on roads and in parks but does not include higher risk areas such as trails, beaches, mountains, etc.

The minimum age group covered for this virtual cover is 18 years.

Remote training for adults should be carried out under the supervision of a club coach.

With all competitions scheduled for May, June and July postponed, Athletics Ireland announced last week that re-scheduled events would not take place before August 1.

Phase five of the government’s easing of restrictions, under which larger public gatherings will be permitted, is currently listed to commence on August 10.

For further information or clarification on any of the above points, please contact Paddy Morgan, Chairman, Wexford Athletics (087-9273545).