New track at Gaelscoil is a runaway hit
WEXFORD Deputy Brendan Howlin showed former mayor George Lawlor a clean pair of heels at the opening of the new walking/running track at Gaelscoil Charman.
The Labour deputy officially opened the Cosán Mháire walk, named in honour of the late Maíre Uí h-Uigín who taught in the school.
Mark Fanning was the special guest at the ceremony.
Principal Aine Ui Ghionnain said the opening had been a great success.
‘It was officially opened by Deputy Brendan Howlin and Cllr George Lawlor as well as two children from the school - Conor Fahy and Aya Tribak who are the oldest and youngest children in the school.
‘Mark Fanning was a special guest too and he spoke to the children about the importance of using the track and keeping active. He also led a run around the track.’ The 180 metre all weather track cost in the region of €20,000 and was entirely funded by fundraisers as it received no grant funding.
‘It took about two years to fundraise the necessary amount and we also did extensive drainage in the area which now means that the grass there will be playable for longer which will also benefit the children.
‘The money was raised through a series of fundraisers which were very well supported.’
Aine said that the running and walking track will be timetabled and at certain times it will be restricted to walking while other times it will only be used for running.
She said there was a concerted effort at the school to keep children active and moving and the new track is part of that campaign.
Further down the line it is hoped to enhance the existing play area at the school and install a hurling wall.
Aine said that one of the fundraisers, a 5km walk/run, will now become an annual fundraiser.