Pictures: Groups come together for Outdoor Sportsfest in Tramore Valley Park

MORE than 40 young people took part in Cork’s first Urban Outdoor Sportsfest in Tramore Valley Park this week.

Described as a celebration of sport and physical activity, the event brought together participants from a variety of backgrounds and groups including Foróige, Cloyne Diocese Youth Service (CDYS), and the YMCA UBU Youth Projects on the premise that activity assists interaction and integration in our ever-growing and multicultural city.

The event was a collaboration between Corks Sports Partnership, Cork Education and Training Board, and Cork City Council in partnership with Cork BMX Club, Kinsale Outdoor Education, and Orienteering Ireland.

The organisers co-operated to transport groups of young people from Linkpoint in Knocknaheeny, The Hut in Gurranabraher, and centres hosting Ukrainians, who all engaged in activities on the BMX track, which is a permanent fixture in the park. Orienteering and a mobile climbing wall were provided by Kinsale Outdoor Education Centre.

Cork City Council senior executive officer Dympna Murphy said that the council was delighted to have one of its parks used in this way.

“Hopefully these events can be expanded to parks in other areas of the city where there are plenty of facilities for the community to enjoy,” she said. “Thanks to all the organisers and participants for making this a great day for all involved.”

Cathal Geraghty, a youth officer at Cork ETB Youth Services, added: “Cork ETB is delighted to partner with Cork Sports Partnership and Cork City Council to provide a great opportunity for young people attending several youth projects across the city to try new activities they may not have had the chance to try before.

“A special mention to the Youth Workers from Foroige, CDYS, and YMCA UBU Youth Projects who brought their young people to this event.

“Without their hard work, we couldn’t have made this event such a success.”

Cork Sports Partnership sports development officer James Kirby thanked Kinsale Outdoor Education Centre, Cork BMX Club, and Orienteering Ireland for delivering the activities on the day.