Athlone formally awarded European Town of Sport accolade

A delegation from Athlone headed by the Mayor, Cllr Jim Henson travelled to the European Parliament in Brussels recently to formally accept the designation of Athlone as European Town of Sport for 2013. The title is awarded annually by the European Capitals of Sport Association (ACES) to a town having promoted sports and pursued innovative municipal sports policies. Athlone was awarded the prestigious title in September by the European Capitals of Sport Association (ACES) following a successful submission by Athlone Town Council, Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT), Athlone Regional Sports Centre, Athlone Town FC, Athlone& District Schoolboy/Girl League, Buccaneers RFC and Glasson Golf Club and a visit from an international panel from ACES to view the facilities. Mayor of Athlone Cllr Jim Henson said that he was "delighted to accept the accolade on behalf of the people of Athlone. The title will offer the town a fantastic opportunity to showcase the extensive range of facilities we have on offer." He also confirmed that Athlone Town Council has designated a small amount of money in 2013 to help publicise the award. Prof Ciarán Ó Catháin, President of AIT and President of Athletics Ireland, said that "this award highlights the measures that have been taken across the wider sporting community in Athlone to engage people in a myriad of different sports. It uniquely gives the town the perfect platform to enhance the current level of cooperation between the sporting bodies and bring new visitors to the town, something that will benefit all sectors."