Bandon AC’s Catherine Duggan Open Sports: Celebrating Olympians and Boosting the Track Fund

Bandon Athletic Club is gearing up for its much-anticipated annual event, the Catherine Duggan Open Sports, which will take place this Sunday, August 25th. Now in its seventh year, the event promises to be a highlight on the local athletics calendar, blending competitive spirit with community engagement.

The day’s events will kick off with three principal races, each carrying its own unique significance. The morning’s activities will commence at 10am with the Donough Coughlan 5k. Following this, the Bob Hales 1 Mile Senior Men’s Race will offer another exciting opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills, and finally, the Senior Women’s 800m race is dedicated to Catherine Duggan, 

But the Catherine Duggan Open Sports is about more than just these principal races. The event is designed to be inclusive, with races and activities catering to all age groups—from small children just starting out in the world of athletics to seasoned masters. This family-friendly approach ensures that everyone, regardless of experience or affiliation with a club, can take part in the fun.

A special highlight of the event will be the appearance of Olympic heroes Phil Healy and Nicola Tuthill, alongside the family of Breda Dennehy, at noon. This gathering will include a presentation to the three Olympians, celebrating their remarkable achievements.

The Catherine Duggan Open Sports also serves a crucial function for Bandon AC’s development. With the Bandon track now on the brink of receiving its long-awaited tarmac upgrade, the funds raised from this event will play a vital role in pushing the project forward. The tarmac is a critical step for the club, bringing ever closer a brand new track for the athletes of today and tomorrow in Bandon.

As Bandon AC prepare to host this year’s Catherine Duggan Open Sports on Sunday, the club invites everyone to come out and support the event. Whether you’re a competitor, a local supporter, or just looking for a fun and engaging community event, this is an occasion you won’t want to miss. Your participation and support will not only contribute to a successful sports day but also aid in achieving the club’s goal of completing their track development.

Featured Image: Courtesy of Bandon AC