Our Lady's Bower launches fundraiser for major new sports facilities
Our Lady's Bower launched a major campaign recently to raise funds for its new outdoor sports, recreational and wellbeing facilities.
The school has received planning approval for the development which is to include a full-size hockey pitch, a multipurpose playing pitch a six-lane 100m sprint track, a changing pavilion, a wild flower and herb garden, walkways and benches and a memorial garden.
Speaking to the students at the launch, Principal Anne Beades said: “This project will not only serve you the current cohort of students, but will serve generations of students for years to come. We are very excited that the project is progressing the way it is.
“To be granted planning permission is a significant milestone and in the last couple of weeks we have received several generous contributions and donations from the community.”
Ms Beades also commented on the generosity of the local community, saying: “We are immensely grateful for the financial support already secured from our trustees, the school, and through a generous legacy gift from Sr Christopher, in addition to a significant grant secured through the Department of Education and Skills Schools Capital Programme.
“To be able to say for a project that cost €2.2 million that we have €1.3 million is amazing. In the last couple of weeks alone, we have received very generous contributions from our parents and school staff. We've also received donations from the community and a student from the 1950s sent me a cheque over four weeks ago when she heard about the project.”
The chairperson of the campaign board,Anne Cusack, also emphasised that the project is for both the current students and future generations. “It is quite a significant legacy for you all to be a part of," she said.
Principal Ms Beades was excited to launch the superdraw and encouraged students to sell tickets for the draw with some enticing prizes such as a Lenovo tablet for the girl who sells the most tickets and a trip to Baysports for the class who sell the most tickets. Each household will receive five tickets to sell and more if required.
Third year student Dorothy Obikoya said: “This development is possible because a community has come together..”
Head Girl and sixth year student Alana Ní Chuinneagain said: “This development is not merely for those involved in sport but will provide a place for personal, social and spiritual development.
“It will be used by everyone as part of the PE curriculum and we can work together to develop this facility.”
Former Miss Westmeath and Athlone influencer Hannah Tumulty attended the event to launch the fundraising campaign and students were given an opportunity to take a selfie with the brand new Nissan Qashqai worth €40,000.
The Nissan Qashqai is the grand prize but there are nine other prizes to be won in the Super Draw including a €1000 cash prize, a €1000 voucher for Dunnes Stores, a luxury beauty hamper worth €500, two nights' B&B and Dinner for two at The Shamrock Lodge Hotel and a champagne dinner for two at The Wineport Lodge.
Tickets are available on www.marshnissan.ie