Awards recognising the pivotal role that local volunteers, groups and campaigns play in creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to engage in regular physical activity were held on Thursday last (5th) at a special luncheon at the Old Cork Waterworks.
The Active Community Awards 2024 celebrate the unsung heroes and grassroots initiatives promoting sport, physical activity and inclusivity across Cork. In a live online broadcast, winners were announced across four categories, highlighting their exceptional contributions to building healthier, more active communities.
On the day, the Active Community Group Award went to the Banteer Community Sportsfield and Park Committee, recognised for their outstanding contributions in developing a facility that serves all age groups and abilities, fostering a healthier and more active community. Finalists in this category included Active Retirement Glounthaune and the Volleywood Stars.
The Active Community Campaign Award was won by Inniscarra Women on the Move, a campaign empowering women to engage in regular physical activity and build social connections. Finalists were Grenagh Gators Gaelic for Mothers and Others and The Sister Hub Aghada.
Cycling for All Cork claimed the Active Community Inclusion Award, applauded for making cycling accessible to people of all abilities. The category’s finalists were Owenabue Special Olympics Gymnastics and the Blackwater Blazers Special Olympics.
While the Active Community Champion Award was awarded to Denis McSweeney for his tireless dedication to Rosscarbery GAA and the Rosscarbery Steamrunners Athletic Club, where his efforts have had a profound impact on the community. Finalists in this category included Tony Devine from Cork Lacrosse and Kevin Dineen of Neptune Basketball for All.
HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
Kristine Meenaghan, CEO of Cork Sports Partnership (event organisers) said that the awards “shine a spotlight on those who dedicate their time and energy to making sport accessible and inclusive”.
“Their work is the backbone of vibrant, healthy communities, and we are proud to celebrate them,” she said.
On the day, a Special Recognition Award was presented to Gerard Oakes, for his inspirational achievement of completing over 50 Parkruns and the recent 10km Rebel Run. Ger dedicated the award to all those that helped him reach his goals, his parents, his siblings, his friends and all the staff in the Field of Dreams.
CELEBRATION EVENT
The special luncheon was attended by local dignitaries, including Lord Mayor of Cork City, Dan Boyle, and Deputy Mayor of Cork County, Martin Coughlan and highlighted the importance of fostering inclusive sports opportunities. Promoting an active lifestyle is essential to improving not only physical health but also mental well-being and social connectedness.
The mayors also commended the winners, emphasising how grassroots sports promote well-being, social inclusion, and community resilience:
“Sport is a unifying force in our communities, and the dedication shown by this year’s winners is inspiring. Their contributions strengthen our social fabric and encourage more people to get active,” said Lord Mayor Dan Boyle.
“The work of these volunteers and groups makes a real difference, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate in sport,” added Deputy Mayor Martin Coughlan.
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