MTU Track Officially Re-Opens

After a prolonged absence, the eagerly anticipated reopening of the MTU Track took place on Monday morning to the delight of all associated with athletics in County Cork. Minister for Sport Thomas Byrne T.D. hosted the opening, heralding a significant moment for the athletic community in Cork.

International athletes Phil Healy and Reece Ademola had the honour of breaking the tape on the newly resurfaced track. This is a hugely positive moment in what has been a period of uncertainty and speculation regarding the future of Cork Athletics and its facilities following the closure of the Mardyke Track earlier this year. 

The freshly resurfaced track is expected to boost the region’s athletic activities significantly. Following Monday's reopening, the first major event to take place will be the 70th Cork City Sports, scheduled for this evening, Tuesday, July 9th. This event promises to set the tone for a series of competitions in the months to come.

With the track now operational, the Cork Athletics County Board have announced the return of several key championships; the County Juvenile 'B', Under 15-19 Championships, and Junior, Senior & Masters Track and Field Championships. These events are slated to kick off in August and will be the first such championships held in Cork in five years. The hiatus in competitive events from 2020 to 2022 was due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while the resurfacing delays throughout 2023 further postponed any championships.

The reopening of the MTU Track is not just a win for the athletes but also a pivotal step for the broader athletic community in Cork. The momentum generated by this reopening is expected to ripple across the county, with other facilities like in Bandon and Bweeng also progressing.

This milestone signifies a new chapter for Cork Athletics, providing a state-of-the-art facility for training and competitions, fostering talent, and enhancing the spirit of Athletics in the region. As the county now gears up for the upcoming events, the sense of anticipation and excitement is palpable.

The reopening of the MTU Track is more than just a return to normalcy; it is a resurgence of athletic excellence in Cork.

Featured Image: Courtesy of Cork Athletics