Cork IT unveil new state-of-the-art stand
The track was something of a trail blazing facility when it was installed back in 1979 and since then the whole complex has been extended to include three full size soccer pitches, two rugby pitches and two GAA pitches, a floodlit full size Astro Turf pitch and a synthetic-urfaced tennis court as well as a 3km walking/jogging rack that encompasses the campus.
When the original athletics track was developed in 1979 the now Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, Batt O’Keeffe, was a Lecturer at what was then the Cork RTC and yesterday he was back at his old stomping ground to perform the official opening of the new €1.7million stand which brings the stadium up to international standards.
He paid tribute to the Partnership, which also involves Cork County Council and Cork City Council as well as the Cork County Board of AAI for developing a facility that will benefit not just the students at the College and the people of Cork but athletics throughout the country.
“The realisation of the concept that dates back to 1979 has come about through vision, integrated action and great leadership,” he said.
“The partnership has, over time, developed a wonderful athletics facility for the community of Cork and especially the students in CIT and the facilities that have been added over the years signifies the commitment of the Staff and the Governing Body as well as the County Board.”
The President of CIT, Dr Brendan Murphy; and the Chairman of the Track Management Committee, Liam O’Brien, who won 11 Irish steeple chase titles and represented Ireland at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, both spoke of the proposed development of an indoor facility.
There new stand incorporates an indoor warm-up/training facility as well as six locker rooms and administrative offices for officials – the Cork County Board AAI now has it’s headquarters there – and a medical room.
“This is the completion of something that had been much sought after for many years by all athletic people, coaches, athletes, fans and officials,” Liam O’Brien said.
“The feedback has been very, very positive and already it is a much treasured facility that we are all proud of.”
