Monday 23rd December - Building closes at 9pm

Christmas Eve - CLOSED

Christmas Day - CLOSED

Boxing Day - CLOSED

Friday 27 December -  Building closes at 9pm

Saturday 28 December - Normal Opening Hours

Sunday 29 December - Normal Opening Hours

Monday 30 December - Building closes at 9pm

New Year’s Eve - Building closes at 6pm

New Year’s Day - CLOSED

Thursday 2nd January - Normal Opening Hours 

Christmas Eve - Building closes at 6.00 pm

Christmas Day - CLOSED

Boxing Day - CLOSED

Friday 27 December – Monday 30 December - Reopen. Check website for session times. 

New Year’s Eve - Building closes at 5.30 pm

New Year’s Day - CLOSED

Thursday 2nd January - Sunday 5th January 2025  - Reopen. Check website for session times. 

The facility includes a full size G.A.A. pitch and two soccer pitches, providing clubs with a state-of-the-art venue for training and matches.

FP McCann commenced construction last year to upgrade the pitch following an investment of £1.7 million by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. Work included replacing the existing Astro Turf Hockey pitch and creating additional car parking - as well as providing floodlighting; fencing; ball catching netting; pedestrian and vehicle access gates; retaining walls and an access path.

The pitch has already attracted bookings from many clubs, in particular Carryduff Colts FC and Carryduff GAA who have supported the council throughout the duration of the project.

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “The council is delighted to officially open this fantastic new facility, which will make a real difference to clubs in the Carryduff community. We recognise the importance of offering top quality sporting facilities to provide much needed pitches for training and league fixtures.

Taking part in physical activity has a positive impact on our heath and wellbeing so it is essential that we can support clubs who encourage young people to get involved in sport either competitively or just for fun.

I know that many clubs have been looking forward to playing on the pitch and seeing their dream become a reality. I would like to thank the Carryduff Colts and Carryduff GAC for their involvement with the project from the early days to the official opening today.  I look forward to watching some games over the coming weeks and seeing the pitch in full action!”

Pictured, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee pictured with representatives from Carryduff Colts FC and Carryduff GAA.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has paid tribute to local sporting talent during the 2024 Sports Awards sponsored by Draynes Farm. The annual event took place on Friday 15 November at a prestigious ceremony at La Mon Hotel & Country Club.

This year’s event shined a light on disability sport with interviews from special guests visually impaired archer, Tony Barclay MBE and disability golfer, Mark Clougherty.

Broadcaster, Claire McCollum hosted the evening and helped showcase the amazing achievements and inspirational stories behind each award winner.

The Sports Awards celebrate the wealth of sporting talent of individuals and teams from Lisburn & Castlereagh. The event recognises the sporting achievements of both individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contribution as a coach or administrator.

Swimmer, Jessika Robson was named Senior Sports Personality of the Year. This year, Jessika became the youngest swimmer to undertake the North Channel Swim, setting a world record of 11 hours and 46 minutes. She also achieved the Irish Triple Crown and competed in her first year of ice swimming, winning selection to represent Team GB at the International Ice Swimming Championship. Amy Stewart from Lisburn Taekwondo Club was awarded second while Badminton player, Paige Woods collected third place.

Junior Sports Personality of the Year was won by swimmer, Eoghan McQuillan. Eoghan competed at the Ulster Age Group and Open Championship where he won an amazing 12 medals, including 7 golds, 1 bronze and 4 relay golds. He was also selected for the Ulster Regional Squad and competed in the Irish Age Group Championship where he became four times Irish champion and nine times Irish medallist. Boxer, Paige Nickels was placed second and trampoline athlete, Jacob Dumigan third.

Skier, Sean McCartan achieved Sports Person with a Disability of the Year. Sean was a member of the Ulster Special Olympics squad that took part in the Irish Winter Games where he came home with a gold medal in the intermediate slalom and a bronze in the intermediate giant slalom. Second place was won by boccia player, Jayne Milligan.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “Lisburn & Castlereagh has a proud history of sporting success producing many World, Olympic, Commonwealth, European and National Champions.

“The Council has endeavoured to support these teams and individuals who aspire to reach the highest levels of performance and competition. We have also encouraged greater physical activity in the wider community by delivering programmes to help those wishing to progress in a sport or just take part for the fun and enjoyment.

“Within the Council area, we offer first class facilities for visitors and athletes, including Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl. An exciting new 3G pitch at Lough Moss Leisure Centre will also open shortly followed by the 3G pitch at Laurelhill Sports Zone, which will be exciting development for local sport.

“I would like to congratulate all the award winners for their achievements and to everyone behind the scenes for their commitment to sport. I would like to thank Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh for their continued partnership with the Council and also local company, Draynes Farm, for generously sponsoring the event and acknowledging the important role sport plays in our area.”

Lisburn Distillery Warriors proudly collected Disability Sports Team of the Year. The team currently plays in the Irish FA Disability League 5 aside across two age groups, with the intermediate team proudly lifting the League Cup at the end of the season. Second place was presented to Carryduff GAC All Stars.

Sports Club of the Year was won by Lisburn Cricket Club with Lisburn City Swimming Club taking second place and Jog Moira Running Club third place. Senior Sports Club of the Year was awarded to Lisburn Rugby Club Men’s 1st XI Team with Lisburn Golf Club ‘Ulster Cup Team’ taking second and Rockmount Golf Club Ladies ‘Junior Cup’ Team third.

Pheonix Basketball Club Under 18 Boys’ Team picked up Junior Sports Club Team of the Year and Lisburn Cricket Club U15 Girls’ Team was presented with second place and the Junior Belfast Giants U14 Hockey Team third place. The School Sports Team of the Year was won by Wallace High School Boys’ XI Hockey Team while St Patrick’s Academy Year 11 Gaelic Football Team took second and Laurelhill Community College U15 Boys’ Football Team third place.

Peter Stewart from Lisburn Taekwondo Club was honoured with the Sports Coach of the Year Award for his hard work and dedication developing the club over the last 30 years. Second prize was awarded to Glen Ferguson from the Junior Belfast Giants and third place went to Rachel Irvine from City of Lisburn Salto Gymnastics Club.

The Merit Award was presented to individuals to recognise the essential and valuable service they provide to their clubs in the pursuit of success in their chosen sport. The Alison Slater Junior Merit Award was achieved by Elle Tennyson from Lisburn Rangers Football Club Boys’ Academy, Oscar Hall from the Gymnastics and Trampoline Network and Rheanna McGlinchey from the Carryduff Taekwondo Club.

The David Edwards Senior Merit Award was presented to Glen Culbert from Lisburn Taekwondo Club, Jennifer Thompson of Lisburn Rapid Table Tennis Club and Rob Giles from the Gymnastics and Trampoline Network.

Jimmy Walker, Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added his support for the event, “The Sports Awards is definitely one of the highlights of the year for Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh as it gives us the opportunity to congratulate athletes, teams and coaches for their hard work and dedication in their chosen sport. We hope our nominees will inspire others to participate in sport and help develop sporting talent and healthier lifestyles in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Owen Drayne, Partner at Drayne’s Farm added, “We are always delighted to sponsor the Lisburn and Castlereagh Council Sports Awards and every year the wealth of sporting talent of both local individuals and teams never fails to impress.  As a long-established Lisburn business, Drayne’s Farm is embedded in the community, and it is a pleasure to be involved in recognising the dedication and commitment of all these local winners.”

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner will receive a £100 cheque in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective sports.

August’s winner was triathlete, Suzanne McConnell. After a complicated kidney transplant that left her with less than 30% kidney function, Suzanne competed in her first British Transplant Games for Northern Ireland just 18 months into her recovery. She started her training this year through the "Introduction to Triathlon for Women" programme, organised by Lisburn Castlereagh City Council’s Sports Development Team and Triathlon Ireland. Although this was a significant challenge for Suzanne, it ignited her determination to be selected for the British Transplant Games. Suzanne achieved her goal and returned from the games with three medals, a bronze in the cycling time trial, silver in the cycling road race and bronze in the 50m backstroke. Her next goal is to compete in the World Transplant Games in Germany in August 2025.

Runner, Caleb Lewis was awarded September's Sports Personality of the month. At just 15 years old, Caleb represented Northern Ireland and Ulster in the U17 British and Irish Mountain Racing Championships in September 2024, where he placed 17th overall in a highly competitive field. That same month, he set a new course record at the Moira Junior parkrun with an impressive time of 6 minutes and 17 seconds. A dedicated member of Jog Lisburn, Caleb has represented his club at numerous events and regularly attends training. His fellow runners describe him as encouraging to everyone, regardless of their ability. The club is extremely proud of Caleb and thrilled to see his hard work and consistency leading to outstanding results.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please click here.

Pictured L - R: Septembers Sports Personality of the Month winner, Caleb Lewis, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison and Augusts Sports Personality of the Month winner, Suzanne McConnell. 

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner will receive a £100 cheque in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective sports.

August’s winner was triathlete, Suzanne McConnell. After a complicated kidney transplant that left her with less than 30% kidney function, Suzanne competed in her first British Transplant Games for Northern Ireland just 18 months into her recovery. She started her training this year through the "Introduction to Triathlon for Women" programme, organised by Lisburn Castlereagh City Council’s Sports Development Team and Triathlon Ireland. Although this was a significant challenge for Suzanne, it ignited her determination to be selected for the British Transplant Games. Suzanne achieved her goal and returned from the games with three medals, a bronze in the cycling time trial, silver in the cycling road race and bronze in the 50m backstroke. Her next goal is to compete in the World Transplant Games in Germany in August 2025.

Runner, Caleb Lewis was awarded September's Sports Personality of the month. At just 15 years old, Caleb represented Northern Ireland and Ulster in the U17 British and Irish Mountain Racing Championships in September 2024, where he placed 17th overall in a highly competitive field. That same month, he set a new course record at the Moira Junior parkrun with an impressive time of 6 minutes and 17 seconds. A dedicated member of Jog Lisburn, Caleb has represented his club at numerous events and regularly attends training. His fellow runners describe him as encouraging to everyone, regardless of their ability. The club is extremely proud of Caleb and thrilled to see his hard work and consistency leading to outstanding results.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please click here.

Pictured L - R: Septembers Sports Personality of the Month winner, Caleb Lewis, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison and Augusts Sports Personality of the Month winner, Suzanne McConnell. 

Party fun will be in full flow next week as Lagan Valley LeisurePlex celebrates its 25th anniversary. The special milestone will see a 3-day extravaganza from Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th October.

Customers are invited to come along to the themed celebration, ‘Party like it’s 1999’, which will include a schedule of retro events and mega prize giveaways. There will also be DJ entertainment and a host of special guests for the ultimate party atmosphere.

The birthday celebrations will kick off on Thursday 10 October with an energy packed Leisure Pool Party between 6pm and 8.45pm. Customers can make a splash down the longest and fastest water slides while partying the session away with our resident DJ. There will also be prize giveaways, face painting and a special appearance from Moana, Stitch and Jack Sparrow.

Two exciting events will come to the main hall on Friday 11 October. Children can bounce into the family fun session from 6.30pm with energy packed inflatables, face painting and party balloon modelling. Party goers can also choose to get their skates on at a retro roller disco from 7.00-8.00pm.  90’s stars Barbie and Ken will make an appearance and might even join in the fun!

The final day culminates with a big Super Saturday event on 12th October. The fun packed day starts with a baby disco in the Lazy River where little ones can join a parent or guardian for baby themed songs and lots of splashes.  What’s more every baby taking part will receive their own rubber duck to take home.

The fun in the Leisure Pool continues from 11am where customers will have the chance to win a goody bag if they find a special hidden golden coin in the water! The Cool FM Roadshow will be whipping up party tracks live in the centre from 12.00 noon – 5.00pm for an amazing party experience   Popular 90’s Toy Story characters will be there from 11.00 – 4.00pm along with a fabulous selfie mirror, face painting, party balloons and much more!

Throughout Saturday, there will be lots of chances to spin a prize wheel and win a selection of fantastic prizes, from panto tickets to an overnight stay at La Mon Hotel & Country Club.

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing said, “Lagan Valley LeisurePlex has proudly served customers from the Lisburn and Castlereagh area and across Northern Ireland over the last 25 years. The centre has made a real difference to people’s lives by helping them improve their health and fitness through a wide choice of classes, gym and pool facilities. It has also helped families looking for great value days out by offering the hugely popular Leisure Pool and Mission Inflatable sessions.

We are delighted to now celebrate the facilities 25th birthday with a massive 3-day event programme.  There is an amazing schedule of activities to get into the party spirit so there will be a real buzz across the centre.

Those who enjoy classes should check out our timetable of throwback retro classes for a classic 1990’s vibe. Families can also book a host of party sessions in the Leisure Pool along with a roller disco and inflatable party so you will certainly be spoilt for choice. What’s more customers can also come along in their favourite 90’s fashion to capture the era in style!”

“There is also some amazing prizes to be won on the Saturday and I would like to thank the many local businesses who have contributed to our spin the wheel competition. We really appreciate your support and look forward to celebrating our special birthday with our customers”, added Councillor Craig.

For further information on the 25th celebration event and to book a session, click here. 

Sports clubs and coaches are kicking off the new season by signing up to the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council coach education programme. The specialised training courses offer a valuable opportunity for clubs to develop their skills and get the best out of their athletes, players and administrators.

The new timetable runs from October through to March and includes 20 courses, which are conveniently delivered across multiple locations and online. Course topics include Strength & Conditioning, Sports Nutrition, Sports Psychology, First Aid in Sport and Safeguarding to name but a few of the courses available.

Speaking at the launch of the programme, Alderman Hazel Legge, Vice Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “We have many great clubs in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area whose continuing success is very much down to the ability and commitment of those involved in coaching and behind the scenes.

The wide selection of courses available on the coach education programme will help these clubs increase their skills and knowledge in key areas throughout the sporting calendar. Courses are available online and in person making it easy for everyone to access a programme to suit their schedule.”

“I hope the Coach Education programme will inspire clubs to provide a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment to get the best of of their players and athletes at grassroot level. Those interested can find out more by going online and having a look at the great value training courses on offer,” added Alderman Legge.

For the full timetable of training courses and to book online, please visit https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/sports-training-courses-and-events#training-courses-for-sports-clubs-and-coaches

Photo Caption- Vice Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Alderman Hazel Legge launch the Council’s Coach Education Programme alongside Belfast Giants Assistant Coach, George Awada; NI Powerlifting Federation Coach, Jonathan Ferguson; Salto Gymnastic Coach, Eve McGibbon and the Council’s Sports Development Team, Kevin Madden and Owen Madine.

Sports clubs and coaches are kicking off the new season by signing up to the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council coach education programme. The specialised training courses offer a valuable opportunity for clubs to develop their skills and get the best out of their athletes, players and administrators.

The new timetable runs from October through to March and includes 20 courses, which are conveniently delivered across multiple locations and online. Course topics include Strength & Conditioning, Sports Nutrition, Sports Psychology, First Aid in Sport and Safeguarding to name but a few of the courses available.

Speaking at the launch of the programme, Alderman Hazel Legge, Vice Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “We have many great clubs in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area whose continuing success is very much down to the ability and commitment of those involved in coaching and behind the scenes.

The wide selection of courses available on the coach education programme will help these clubs increase their skills and knowledge in key areas throughout the sporting calendar. Courses are available online and in person making it easy for everyone to access a programme to suit their schedule.”

“I hope the Coach Education programme will inspire clubs to provide a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment to get the best of of their players and athletes at grassroot level. Those interested can find out more by going online and having a look at the great value training courses on offer,” added Alderman Legge.

For the full timetable of training courses and to book online, please visit https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/sports-training-courses-and-events#training-courses-for-sports-clubs-and-coaches

Photo Caption- Vice Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Alderman Hazel Legge launch the Council’s Coach Education Programme alongside Belfast Giants Assistant Coach, George Awada; NI Powerlifting Federation Coach, Jonathan Ferguson; Salto Gymnastic Coach, Eve McGibbon and the Council’s Sports Development Team, Kevin Madden and Owen Madine.

Six nations will go head-to-head this weekend as Northern Ireland proudly hosts the prestigious Vitality Membership Adult Triple Crown Tenpin Bowling Tournament. The competition will be held from Friday 20th – 22nd September at Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

This international competition will see teams from Northern Ireland, England, Gibraltar, Ireland, Scotland and Wales compete for the accolade of the Triple Crown title. Medals will be awarded across several major events, including Singles, Doubles, Trios, Mixed Doubles and Team competitions. Bowlers will earn valuable points across each discipline which will ultimately lead the winning nation to lift the eagerly contested Triple Crown Trophy.

Attending the opening ceremony, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Kurtis Dickson, said, “I am delighted to welcome teams and their supporters from across the six nations to our fantastic facilities here at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. It is very exciting to see the quality of the bowling taking place and I know we are in for a closely contended competition.

“I would encourage customers to come along and watch the action at some stage over the weekend. It is a great way to see the nation’s leading bowlers first hand and maybe pick up a few hints along the way.”

“I hope all the teams and supporters enjoy the competition and I look forward to meeting everyone over the course of the tournament,” concluded Mayor Dickson.

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “It is a great honour to host the Vitality Membership Adult Triple Crown at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The facility has a proud history of staging prestigious events over the last 38 years so we are very excited to add another major bowling event to our sporting calendar.

I would like to thank the Northern Ireland Tenpin Bowling Federation for organising the tournament as I know many months have gone into planning an event of this scale. I would also like to extend thanks to the staff at Dundonald International Ice Bowl for the work behind the scenes in preparation for the tournament.”

“I hope the teams enjoy visiting Northern Ireland and the superb leisure facilities we have here in Lisburn and Castlereagh,” added Councillor Craig.

Grant Dugan, President of the Northern Ireland Tenpin Bowling Federation said, “We’ve been looking forward to once again hosting the Adult Triple Crown here at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and putting on a spectacle for both the competitors and supporters to enjoy. A great few days of exciting competition is instore, that I can promise you! 

On behalf of the Federation, I would like to express my thanks to Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council for agreeing to host and support the event. Thanks also go to all the staff involved within Dundonald International Ice Bowl in helping us with all the preparations over the last number of months. The facility is looking fantastic, and the lanes are in great condition for the tournament.

I encourage everyone to come along and watch the ‘striking’ action if you have some ‘spare’ time and cheer us on!”

The aim of the awards is to recognise the wealth of sporting talent of individuals and teams, residing or based, in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

Sponsored by Draynes Farm, the awards evening will take place at a ceremony at La Mon Hotel & Country Club on Friday 15 November. The event will focus on the sporting achievements of individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contributions as a coach or administrator. 

Nomination categories are now open for the Sports Club of the Year, Sports Coach of the Year, Senior Sports Team of the Year, Junior Sports Team of the Year, School Team of the Year, Junior Sports Personality of the Year, Senior Sports Personality of the Year and Sportsperson with a Disability of the Year and Disability Sports Team of the Year.

Junior and Senior Merit Awards are also available to commend volunteers for their dedication and essential backroom support to their club.

Launching the 2024 Sports Awards, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said, “The Sports Awards is an opportunity to celebrate the diverse range of sports making a real difference to local communities here in Lisburn & Castlereagh. We have a proud history of sporting success with athletes and teams representing the council area in local and international competitions.

“This year’s awards ceremony will focus on athletes with a disability, which showcases the fantastic achievements and dedication of our sportsmen and women across many disciplines. I know their success, along with the amazing 2024 Paralympic Games, will inspire the next generation to get involved in sport either recreationally or competitively.

I am particularly looking forward to hearing from our special guests visually impaired archer Tony Barclay MBE and disability golfer Mark Clougherty who have achieved great success in their sporting careers.”

“The closing date to make a nomination for the Sports Awards is Monday 30th September at 5pm. I would encourage everyone to take the time to nominate an individual, club or school whose achievements might otherwise go unnoticed”, concluded Councillor Craig.

Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added, “I am delighted that Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh can work in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to recognise those who have achieved so much in sport over the last year.

“I am aware of the many hours of training, which are dedicated each week in pursuit of excellence in sport, particularly at competitive level. There are also many unsung heroes whose valuable technical support and coaching inspire others to reach their potential.

“I would like to thank Draynes Farm for kindly sponsoring the awards and I hope many clubs and individuals will be encouraged to take the time to make a nomination and celebrate the wealth of sporting greatness in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Nominations are welcome from schools, clubs and individuals, residing or based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.

Nomination forms can be completed online by clicking here.

Further information if required can be obtained by emailing faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk.

The closing date for applications is strictly Monday 30th September 2024 at 5pm.

 Pictured L – R: Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Tony Barclay MBE, Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh and Mark Clougherty. 

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner will receive a £100 cheque in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective sports.

The June Sports Personality of the Month was presented to Taekwondoin James Nicholson who had an outstanding performance at the Wales International Open and Welsh National Championships. James achieved a haul of medals by picking up a fantastic gold in the individual event, silver in the team event and a bronze in the pairs. Remarkably, James is the only person to hold all five national titles in Northern Ireland, including British, Scottish, Welsh, Irish and Northern Irish titles. His gold medal win has also put him in a strong position to gain selection for the Taekwondo World Championships in Hong Kong this November.

Trampolinist, Jacob Dumigan was awarded July Sports Personality of the Month. Jacob competed in the FIG 13-14 boys’ category, which is the highest level for his age in both trampoline and double mini trampoline (DMT). In June, Jacob had a busy month, competing in the NI Championships and then placing 4th in trampoline and 3rd in DMT at the British National Age Group Qualifier. Jacob then represented Northern Ireland at the Scalabis Cup in Portugal, an international event with competitors from 28 countries. Jacob made it to the trampoline finals, finishing 8th and placing 13th in DMT. He is the first in his club to compete internationally in DMT, reach an international trampoline final and qualify for British Age Group competitions.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthaugustandseptember24/

Pictured - Junes Sports Personality of the Month winner, Taekwondoin, James Nicholson

Pictured - Julys Sports Personality of the month winner, Trampolinist, Jacob Dumigan

Sponsored by Vitality Membership, each winner will receive a £100 cheque in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their respective sports.

The June Sports Personality of the Month was presented to Taekwondoin James Nicholson who had an outstanding performance at the Wales International Open and Welsh National Championships. James achieved a haul of medals by picking up a fantastic gold in the individual event, silver in the team event and a bronze in the pairs. Remarkably, James is the only person to hold all five national titles in Northern Ireland, including British, Scottish, Welsh, Irish and Northern Irish titles. His gold medal win has also put him in a strong position to gain selection for the Taekwondo World Championships in Hong Kong this November.

Trampolinist, Jacob Dumigan was awarded July Sports Personality of the Month. Jacob competed in the FIG 13-14 boys’ category, which is the highest level for his age in both trampoline and double mini trampoline (DMT). In June, Jacob had a busy month, competing in the NI Championships and then placing 4th in trampoline and 3rd in DMT at the British National Age Group Qualifier. Jacob then represented Northern Ireland at the Scalabis Cup in Portugal, an international event with competitors from 28 countries. Jacob made it to the trampoline finals, finishing 8th and placing 13th in DMT. He is the first in his club to compete internationally in DMT, reach an international trampoline final and qualify for British Age Group competitions.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthaugustandseptember24/

Pictured - Junes Sports Personality of the Month winner,Taekwondoin, James Nicholson

Pictured - Julys Sports Personality of the month winner, Trampolinist, Jacob Dumigan

Delivered by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, the programme provided over 2,000 places to get children active over the holidays.

This year children had the opportunity to explore the exciting world of sports through an extensive range of camps and classes. Sports included golf, jag tag, racquets, basketball, goal keeping, swimming and Gaelic football to name but a few of the fantastic courses which were on offer.

In addition to the camps, children enjoyed a choice of fun filled summer activity schemes delivered across the council’s leisure facilities. Many of these schemes also offered outings each week, which provided excellent value for money.

Visiting some of the Sports Services summer schemes and sports camps, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “It is fantastic to see so many smiling children enjoying the wide range of activities available through our Summer in the City programme. 

“We recognise the valuable support that summer schemes and sports camps offer parents over the school holidays and the importance of getting children active for their health and wellbeing. Activity schemes also provide a fantastic opportunity for children to make new friendships, particularly during school holidays, which helps improve their confidence and social skills.

“The Council strives to assist as many families as possible by providing a wide range of summer activity options.  This year we also offered a Disability Kids Club and access to Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. These activities were designed to ensure that all children, regardless of their ability, can fully participate and enjoy the summer programme.”

“I hope all the children enjoyed their summer and I look forward to welcoming them back to the centre again either visiting with their family or a future activity scheme”, concluded Councillor Craig.

Delivered by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, the programme provided over 2,000 places to get children active over the holidays.

This year children had the opportunity to explore the exciting world of sports through an extensive range of camps and classes. Sports included golf, jag tag, racquets, basketball, goal keeping, swimming and Gaelic football to name but a few of the fantastic courses which were on offer.

In addition to the camps, children enjoyed a choice of fun filled summer activity schemes delivered across the council’s leisure facilities. Many of these schemes also offered outings each week, which provided excellent value for money.

Visiting some of the Sports Services summer schemes and sports camps, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “It is fantastic to see so many smiling children enjoying the wide range of activities available through our Summer in the City programme. 

“We recognise the valuable support that summer schemes and sports camps offer parents over the school holidays and the importance of getting children active for their health and wellbeing. Activity schemes also provide a fantastic opportunity for children to make new friendships, particularly during school holidays, which helps improve their confidence and social skills.

“The Council strives to assist as many families as possible by providing a wide range of summer activity options.  This year we also offered a Disability Kids Club and access to Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. These activities were designed to ensure that all children, regardless of their ability, can fully participate and enjoy the summer programme.”

“I hope all the children enjoyed their summer and I look forward to welcoming them back to the centre again either visiting with their family or a future activity scheme”, concluded Councillor Craig.

Monday 26th August  – centre will close at 6.00pm

The last Leisure Pool session will start at 4pm. For Leisure Pool session times click here

The 25m Pool will close at 5.30pm.

The gym and health suite will close at 5.15pm.

All other activities will finish at 5.30pm.

For any queries, please contact the centre on 028 9267 2121 or email leisureplex@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the August Bank Holiday opening hours for Dundonald International Ice Bowl:

Monday 26th August – Open as normal

For Ice Skating session times, click here 

For Indiana Land session times, click here

For Tenpin Bowling session times, click here

To pre-book Indiana Land click here 

For tenpin bowling, please call the Bowling Centre on 028 9080 9102 or 028 9080 9104.

*Pre-booking is not currently required for ice skating.*

For any queries, please contact the centre on 028 9080 9100 or email icebowl@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Four young bowlers are enjoying their final training preparations before heading to the prestigious Youth Triple Crown Tenpin Bowling Championships.  The team will have the honour of representing Northern Ireland at the championships in Dublin this week.

The bowlers who are aged 12 – 15 years started their sporting journey on the popular ‘Learn to Bowl’ programme at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The six-week course was delivered by coaches from the Northern Ireland Tenpin Bowling Federation (NITBF) and helped young people discover a passion and skill for tenpin bowling.

Meeting the Northern Ireland team, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “Dundonald International Ice Bowl has a proud history of sporting success, so it is fantastic to support these young bowlers as they head off for their first competition.

Programmes like the Learn to Bowl sessions play an important role in nurturing home-grown talent. Many of these young people had only previously bowled with family and friends but thanks to the expert coaching from the NITBF they now have the skills and confidence to progress in the sport.

Sport plays such an important role bringing young people together to take part a positive activity which promotes teamwork and self-esteem. I would like to wish the team every success as they head off to the tournament today. Representing your country is a proud moment and I look forward to hearing about the experience on your return.”

NITBF President, Grant Dugan added, “We’re thrilled to be in a position to once again send a youth team to compete, after an absence of over 20 years. The Vitality Membership package has helped increase the interest and numbers in the sport especially amongst the youth members. This combined with our new development programme has seen these talented youth bowlers excel and we are excited to see the results they are capable of producing at this year’s Youth Triple Crown.

We wish them all the best for the tournament competing against other youth bowlers from England, Iceland, Ireland and Scotland this week.”

Adrenaline levels soared as over forty young people slid into action for an energy packed ice hockey camp at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The camp is part of the highly successful HEROS cross-community programme that uses ice hockey to inspire and motivate participants. 

Now in its 16th year, the programme brings together young people from Lisburn, Belfast, Holywood, Swords & Finglas in Dublin. During the week, the group received international coaching from Canadian hockey players then had the opportunity to test their skills in a big game on the final evening.

The HEROS programme was developed by the youth partners; Crosscare, Army Welfare Services, Ballynafeigh Community Development Association, along with the international partners H.E.R.O.S Canada.

This highly successful model was first established in Canada and has helped develop life skills and empower over 17,000 young people since it started in 2000. This success has been mirrored in Northern Ireland through the HEROS programme.

Dropping the puck at the final game, Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “This is the 16th year, council has hosted the HEROS programme at Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The initiative has always been a huge success and has been met with such enthusiasm and commitment.

It was fantastic to see so many young people taking part in the big game tonight to showcase their new skills in front of family and friends. Many of the participants have only started skating for the first time while others are returning to programme in a leadership capacity.

“Sport plays an important role in bringing young people together to take part in positive activity which promotes a culture of teamwork and understanding for one another. I would like to thank the organisers and Canadian HEROS volunteers for delivering such an innovative programme which will hopefully have a major impact on the lives of participants as they apply their new skills and experiences off the ice.”

On behalf of the youth partners, Natalie Trainor added, “The programme works towards giving young people a unique opportunity to learn and develop life skills in ice hockey while developing aspirations for themselves and building relationships between young people from different backgrounds. 

“The programme has been running for 16 years and we are delighted to celebrate the talent, friendships and skills being developed as a result of the programme.  We hope that every young person gains from the experience and takes away positive messages from this unique project.”

Work is underway to develop a new full size 3G soccer pitch at Laurelhill Sports Zone. The construction of the pitch has commenced, following £1.7 million investment from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council.

The project is expected to be completed in March 2025 and will see the creation of one new 3G pitch and additional parking, which will complement the existing synthetic hockey pitch currently on site.

The improved facility will be used by both Laurelhill Community College and Killowen Primary School as part of their curriculum. The wider community can also book the pitch outside of term time as well as at evenings and weekends.

Councillor Jonathan Craig, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, “The council is pleased to invest in another open space project to offer both local schools and the community access to quality sporting facilities.

The soccer pitch will provide valuable grounds for the schools to offer PE sessions and after school activities, which will hopefully inspire an interest in the sport at grassroots level.

Sports clubs, youth groups and friends can also access the pitch, outside of school hours, providing a fantastic community hub for everyone to enjoy.

Taking part in physical activity is a great way to improve your health and wellbeing therefore the new pitch will offer a fun way to get everyone moving together.

I look forward to visiting the facility once the project is completed to see many goals being scored.”

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the July Bank Holiday opening hours for Lagan Valley LesiurePlex:

Thursday 11th July – centre will close at 6.00pm
Friday 12th July – CLOSED
Saturday 13th July – centre will close at normal time of 6.00pm
Sunday 14th July – centre will close at normal time of 6.00pm
Monday 15th July – centre will close at 6.00pm
Tuesday 16th July - reopen as normal

For Leisure Pool session times click here

For any queries, please contact the centre on 028 9267 2121 or email leisureplex@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the July Bank Holiday opening hours for Dundonald International Ice Bowl:

Monday 8 July – Wednesday 10 July - Centre will close at 8.30pm.

The last ice skating session will end at 5.00pm. Indiana Land will close at 5.15pm and tenpin bowling will close at 8.30pm

Thursday 11 July – Centre will close at 5.30pm.

The last ice skating session will end at 5.00pm. Indiana Land will close at 5.15pm and tenpin bowling will close at 5.30pm

Friday 12 July – CLOSED

Saturday 13 July – Open as normal

For Ice Skating session times, click here 

For Indiana Land session times, click here 

For Tenpin Bowling session times, click here

To pre-book Indiana Land click here 

For tenpin bowling, please call the Bowling Centre on 028 9080 9102 or 028 9080 9104.

*Pre-booking is not currently required for ice skating.*

For any queries, please contact the centre on 028 9080 9100 or email icebowl@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh is celebrating the remarkable achievements of two young athletes who excelled in their sport in April and May.

With the generous support of new sponsor Vitality Membership, the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee select a winner each month to receive a £100 cheque as a token of recognition for their outstanding performance.

The Sports Personality of the Month award honours the hard work and dedication of local sports stars that reside in the Council area.

Judo player Kirsten Millar has been named Sports Personality of the Month for April. An international competitor and member of the NI Performance Programme, Kirsten trains three mornings a week in Jordanstown alongside her three weekly club sessions with Simply Judo. In April, she had the honour of representing Northern Ireland at the Commonwealth Championships in Malta, where she delivered an outstanding performance, earning silver medals in both the Junior and Senior categories. Kirsten’s impressive achievements also include being the runner-up for Junior Sports Personality of the Year at the 2023 Draynes Farm Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Awards.

Eoghan McQuillan has been named Sports Personality of the Month for May. Representing Lisburn City Swimming Club, Eoghan competed at the Ulster Age Group and Open Championships held at Bangor Aurora Aquatic Centre. Over three days of intense competition, he swam 19 races, including heats and finals, and won an impressive 12 medals: 7 individual golds, 1 individual bronze and 4 relay team golds. His outstanding performance also earned him the prestigious Elizabeth Long Trophy, awarded to the best 12-year-old swimmer at the meet, an honour previously held by Northern Irish Olympians Danielle Hill and Syrecka McMahon. This award is a testament to Eoghan’s dedication and commitment to his training, which totals 12 hours each week.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthjuneandjuly24/

Pictured - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison with Aprils Sports Personality of the month winner, Kirsten Millar.

Pictured - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison with Mays Sports Personality of the month winner, Eoghan McQuillan.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh is celebrating the remarkable achievements of two young athletes who excelled in their sport in April and May.

With the generous support of new sponsor Vitality Membership, the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee select a winner each month to receive a £100 cheque as a token of recognition for their outstanding performance.

The Sports Personality of the Month award honours the hard work and dedication of local sports stars that reside in the Council area.

Judo player Kirsten Millar has been named Sports Personality of the Month for April. An international competitor and member of the NI Performance Programme, Kirsten trains three mornings a week in Jordanstown alongside her three weekly club sessions with Simply Judo. In April, she had the honour of representing Northern Ireland at the Commonwealth Championships in Malta, where she delivered an outstanding performance, earning silver medals in both the Junior and Senior categories. Kirsten’s impressive achievements also include being the runner-up for Junior Sports Personality of the Year at the 2023 Draynes Farm Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Awards.

Eoghan McQuillan has been named Sports Personality of the Month for May. Representing Lisburn City Swimming Club, Eoghan competed at the Ulster Age Group and Open Championships held at Bangor Aurora Aquatic Centre. Over three days of intense competition, he swam 19 races, including heats and finals, and won an impressive 12 medals: 7 individual golds, 1 individual bronze and 4 relay team golds. His outstanding performance also earned him the prestigious Elizabeth Long Trophy, awarded to the best 12-year-old swimmer at the meet, an honour previously held by Northern Irish Olympians Danielle Hill and Syrecka McMahon. This award is a testament to Eoghan’s dedication and commitment to his training, which totals 12 hours each week.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthjuneandjuly24/

Pictured - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison with Aprils Sports Personality of the month winner, Kirsten Millar.

Pictured - Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison with Mays Sports Personality of the month winner, Eoghan McQuillan.

Over 5000 runners descended to the start line to take part in the 2024 Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run. The popular event returned to the streets of Lisburn on Wednesday 19 June.

Organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, the sellout event saw competitive runners, families and schools take on the challenge of one of Northern Ireland’s favourite running events. 

This year also heralded a new sponsorship area which attracted amazing giveaways from Coca-Cola, MB Chicken and Fulfil. There were also carnival games along with music from Cool FM for a superb atmosphere.

Some of the countries most talented runners crossed the finishing line with Gillian McCrory taking top honours in the women’s Half Marathon with a time of 1.25.08, while Sarah McNutt took a well-deserved second spot and Leann Gibson third. In the men’s Half Marathon, Eskander Turki made it on to the podium in first place in an impressive time of 1.09.31, with Conor Gallagher taking second place and Adam Smyth finishing a strong third.

In the 10K Wheelchair race, Jim Corbett finished in first place with a time of 33.48 and Jane Bleakley was placed highest finishing female.

Hannah Gilliland crossed the finish line in first place in the women’s 10K in 35.40, followed by Elisoa Crawford in second and Nicola Black in third place. In the men's 10K, Brandon McKeown clocked up a first place with a quick time of 34.09, closely followed by Ciaran McKendry in second place and Ronan McAree in third.

The Fun Run was keenly contended with Anna Kelly picking up first place in the female event, followed by Upe Speiskaite in second and Isla Wiltshire in third place. The male Fun Run event was proudly won by Caleb Lewis who excelled to first place. Second place was won by Ashton Cusick and third place Conall Kelly.

Starting the Half Marathon event, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Councillor Kurtis Dickson said, “The Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run have been firm favourites with runners and families for over four decades. This year we were delighted to record one of our highest entry numbers which shows the popularity of the event with runners, families and schools.

We are proud that the event has now grown to become one of Northern Ireland’s largest running events. Many participants come back year on year, while there are some who have run tonight for the very first time.

“I was honoured to meet so many people around the course earlier when completing in the Fun Run, which was such a great atmosphere and lots of fun. You should be very proud of your achievement and hopefully it will be the start of many more runs to come!”

“I would like to thank everyone for supporting the event and helping to raise donations for my Mayoral Charity, Emerge Counselling Services”, concluded Mayor Dickson

The Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig added “The Council is pleased to once again organise this great event and inspire people to come together to get active.

We have a proud history of sporting success and I am delighted that we can continue to organise an event of this scale which is both accessible and enjoyable for everyone. 

I would like to thank the council for supporting the event in partnership with their Vitality Membership package which encourages people to get active through the many classes and activities on offer.

I would also like to thank Coca-Cola, MB Chicken and Fulfil for their support.  They have offered some amazing giveaways for runners to enjoy when they crossed the finish line. It was also fantastic to watch families taking on the challenge of the carnival games, which added to the atmosphere.”

To view photographs from the event, please visit www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com or check out the Council’s Sports Development Facebook page, Beactivelisburncastlereagh. 

Moneyreagh Community Centre has launched a timetable of new fitness classes as part of the popular Vitality membership programme. Classes commence on 1st July and can be booked online up to 7 days in advance for members and 2 days for non-members.

The sessions will offer residents in the Moneyreagh area access to a choice of classes for adults and children. Customers can pay casually or become a Vitality member, which allows their household entry to seven fantastic leisure facilities.

Adult classes are the perfect opportunity for customers to try a new activity or set a new fitness goal. The initial timetable includes spin, circuits, Pilates, barre fusion and pickleball sessions. There are also classes specifically tailored for families with parent and baby circuits, parent & baby legs, bums & tums, and family fun sessions.

Launching the new timetable, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig said, “The Vitality Membership package has been an overwhelming success with over 17,000 members currently enjoying the extensive range of gym, swimming and fitness sessions on offer across our leisure facilities. Households have also benefited from much valued family time with a choice of skating, bowling and Indiana Land at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and the popular Leisure Pool, Mission Inflatable and kids classes at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

We are now delighted to extend the Vitality membership programme to Moneyreagh Community Centre to allow residents access to classes on their doorstep. There are sessions for families and individuals so it’s the perfect opportunity to get everyone active together.

We hope the community enjoy the timetable as it continues to roll out over the summer and that it will inspire people to try something new.”

To book a class at Moneyreagh Community Centre, please visit www.theicebowl.com or download the Vitality Member App on the Apple Store or Google Play. Classes are available to book from 24 June. Members can book up to 7 days in advance for members and non-members 2 days in advance.

Pictured, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig with local resident, Luke McCallum.

Moneyreagh Community Centre has launched a timetable of new fitness classes as part of the popular Vitality membership programme. Classes commence on 1st July and can be booked online up to 7 days in advance for members and 2 days for non-members.

The sessions will offer residents in the Moneyreagh area access to a choice of classes for adults and children. Customers can pay casually or become a Vitality member, which allows their household entry to seven fantastic leisure facilities.

Adult classes are the perfect opportunity for customers to try a new activity or set a new fitness goal. The initial timetable includes spin, circuits, Pilates, barre fusion and pickleball sessions. There are also classes specifically tailored for families with parent and baby circuits, parent & baby legs, bums & tums, and family fun sessions.

Launching the new timetable, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig said, “The Vitality Membership package has been an overwhelming success with over 17,000 members currently enjoying the extensive range of gym, swimming and fitness sessions on offer across our leisure facilities. Households have also benefited from much valued family time with a choice of skating, bowling and Indiana Land at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and the popular Leisure Pool, Mission Inflatable and kids classes at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

We are now delighted to extend the Vitality membership programme to Moneyreagh Community Centre to allow residents access to classes on their doorstep. There are sessions for families and individuals so it’s the perfect opportunity to get everyone active together.

We hope the community enjoy the timetable as it continues to roll out over the summer and that it will inspire people to try something new.”

To book a class at Moneyreagh Community Centre, please visit www.theicebowl.com or download the Vitality Member App on the Apple Store or Google Play. Classes are available to book from 24 June. Members can book up to 7 days in advance for members and non-members 2 days in advance.

Pictured, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Jonathan Craig with local resident, Luke McCallum.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has opened applications for the second year of the ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund to provide much needed financial support to local sports clubs.  Up to £3,000 is available exclusively for sports organisations to help meet the costs associated with their development.

The ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund will help cover costs with tangible benefits including sports equipment, small scale improvements to grounds, specialised equipment, club development officer funding, one off sports festival events and coach education training.

The fund is aimed at sports clubs located within the Lisburn & Castlereagh area who are affiliated to both a National Governing Body as well as their local Sports Advisory Body, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh.

Launching the second phase of the ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said: “The council recognises the financial pressures sports clubs face as they deliver their programme of activities and events within the Lisburn and Castlereagh area. We are pleased again to have the opportunity to provide valuable support to eligible clubs through this scheme.

“Sport plays a crucial role in helping communities get active and has a positive impact on people’s physical and mental health. Clubs are located at the heart of our communities therefore they offer a lifeline to their members in terms of engagement in regular activity as well as forming a sense of belonging and resilience.”

The closing date for applications is Friday 23rd August. To apply online and read a copy of the guidance notes, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportsacceleratorfund2024/

If you have any queries after reading the online application, please contact the Sports Development team by emailing kevin.madden@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk or faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured - Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett with Sports Development Officer, Kevin Madden and representatives from local sports clubs. 

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has opened applications for the second year of the ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund to provide much needed financial support to local sports clubs.  Up to £3,000 is available exclusively for sports organisations to help meet the costs associated with their development.

The ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund will help cover costs with tangible benefits including sports equipment, small scale improvements to grounds, specialised equipment, club development officer funding, one off sports festival events and coach education training.

The fund is aimed at sports clubs located within the Lisburn & Castlereagh area who are affiliated to both a National Governing Body as well as their local Sports Advisory Body, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh.

Launching the second phase of the ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said: “The council recognises the financial pressures sports clubs face as they deliver their programme of activities and events within the Lisburn and Castlereagh area. We are pleased again to have the opportunity to provide valuable support to eligible clubs through this scheme.

“Sport plays a crucial role in helping communities get active and has a positive impact on people’s physical and mental health. Clubs are located at the heart of our communities therefore they offer a lifeline to their members in terms of engagement in regular activity as well as forming a sense of belonging and resilience.”

The closing date for applications is Friday 23rd August. To apply online and read a copy of the guidance notes, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportsacceleratorfund2024/

If you have any queries after reading the online application, please contact the Sports Development team by emailing kevin.madden@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk or faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured - Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett with Sports Development Officer, Kevin Madden and representatives from local sports clubs. 

Lagan Valley LeisurePlex was delighted to welcome 22 schools from across the council area to compete in the annual Lisburn & Castlereagh Primary Schools Swimming Gala on Friday 24th May 2024.

The long-established event was held over two sessions and saw over 300 children compete in P4 – P5 and P6 – P7 categories, continuing to make it one of the largest galas held in Northern Ireland. Swimming disciplines included backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly and freestyle as well as the highly competitive relay races.

During the event, the P4 – P5 Fiona Bate Memorial Trophy for Outstanding Pupil Award was presented to Jack McCluskey from Meadowbridge Primary School while the P6 – P7 Award was presented to Molly Dowling from Brownlee Primary School.

The P4 – P5 freestyle relay was won by St Aloysius Primary School with Friends’ Prep achieving a well-deserved 2nd place and St Jospeh’s Primary School achieving 3rd place. In the afternoon session, Friends’ Prep picked up 1st place in the P6 freestyle relay with St Aloysuis Primary School securing 2nd place and St Joseph’s Primary School claiming 3rd place.

Downshire Primary School achieved 1st place in the P6-P7 medley relay, with Pond Park Primary School a close second followed by St Joseph’s Primary in 3rd place.

Friends Prep secured a successful first place in the overall schools event, taking home the prestigious champion’s title.  Second prize was closely contended by Pond Park Primary School with Downshire Primary School achieving 3rd place.

Presenting the morning session medals, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Councillor Andrew Gowan said, “It is encouraging to see so many children taking part in this year’s swimming gala. The event is a great opportunity to experience the fun of competitive swimming, while still enjoying being part of a school team.  It is fantastic to see the friendships and positive team spirit amongst all the children and I hope the event will encourage many more to take up the sport recreationally or competitively.”

The Mayor added, “I would like to thank the volunteers from SERC Lisburn for their amazing job helping with the timekeeping. Also thank you to all the teachers and children for supporting the gala and helping to maintain the wonderful tradition of Primary School swimming in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Children taking part in the afternoon session were presented their medals by Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee. Councillor Beckett commented, “The swimming gala provides a fantastic opportunity for children to develop their teamwork skills and stay active as part of their school week.

Swimming is a life skill, so it is important to encourage children to learn to swim, improve their technique and build their confidence in the water.  While the swimming gala encourages children to strive for a medal, the overall message is about participation and cheering on every pupil until they cross the finishing line.

I would like to thank the staff at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex for organising such a successful event and look forward to building on the success again next year.”

The P4 – P5 Fiona Bate Memorial Trophy for Outstanding Pupil Award was presented to Jack McCluskey from Meadowbridge Primary School presented by Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Councillor Andrew Gowan.

The P6 – P7 Fiona Bate Memorial Trophy for Outstanding Pupil Award was presented to Molly Dowling from Brownlee Primary School, by Suzi Lee, winner of BBC’s Best Home Cook Show.

The P4 – P5 freestyle relay was won by St Aloysius Primary School with Friends’ Prep achieving a well-deserved 2nd place and St Jospeh’s Primary School achieving 3rd place.

Friends’ Prep picked up 1st place in the P6 freestyle relay with St Aloysuis Primary School securing 2nd place and St Joseph’s Primary School claiming 3rd place, presented by Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee. 

Downshire Primary School achieved 1st place in the medley relay, with Pond Park Primary School a close second followed by St Joseph’s Primary in 3rd place.

Children from across Lisburn & Castlereagh are preparing for a summer of fun as the council’s popular ‘Summer in the City’ programme launches on Monday 3 June at 12 noon.

This year’s programme is jam packed with activity schemes and sports camps to keep children entertained throughout the summer months. It’s the perfect guide for busy parents looking to get their little ones active!

The Council’s summer scheme is open to children aged 5 – 12 years and includes sports, games, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and much more. Schemes will be delivered at various leisure facilities across the council area.

Children can also explore the exciting world of sports through a wide choice of camps and courses, including golf, basketball, Gaelic football, swim camps, racquet sports, goalkeeping and jag tag. These courses offer expert coaching and provide a fun-filled environment where children can try a new sport while having a fun with friends.

In addition to the Schemes and Sports Camps, there is a Disability Kids Club and access to Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. These activities are designed to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, can fully participate and enjoy the summer programme.

Launching the programme, Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, " The ‘Summer in the City’ programme is a fantastic opportunity for children to fill their summer holidays with a different activity each week.  I know many parents eagerly look forward to the launch of the programme to ensure their children maintain a structured routine, while mixing with other children during July and August.

“Keeping active helps improve our health and mental wellbeing so it is important that children can have fun through our programmes. We hope many will find a love for a new sport or develop a new skill which will inspire a lifetime of physical activity.”

The enrolment date for the ‘Summer in the City’ programme opens on Monday 3 June at 12 noon. For full details on the programme and to enrol online, please click here.

 Pictured - Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett with local children. 

Children from across Lisburn & Castlereagh are preparing for a summer of fun as the council’s popular ‘Summer in the City’ programme launches on Monday 3 June at 12 noon.

This year’s programme is jam packed with activity schemes and sports camps to keep children entertained throughout the summer months. It’s the perfect guide for busy parents looking to get their little ones active!

The Council’s summer scheme is open to children aged 5 – 12 years and includes sports, games, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and much more. Schemes will be delivered at various leisure facilities across the council area.

Children can also explore the exciting world of sports through a wide choice of camps and courses, including golf, basketball, Gaelic football, swim camps, racquet sports, goalkeeping and jag tag. These courses offer expert coaching and provide a fun-filled environment where children can try a new sport while having a fun with friends.

In addition to the Schemes and Sports Camps, there is a Disability Kids Club and access to Disability Hub Inclusive Cycles at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. These activities are designed to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, can fully participate and enjoy the summer programme.

Launching the programme, Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee said, " The ‘Summer in the City’ programme is a fantastic opportunity for children to fill their summer holidays with a different activity each week.  I know many parents eagerly look forward to the launch of the programme to ensure their children maintain a structured routine, while mixing with other children during July and August.

“Keeping active helps improve our health and mental wellbeing so it is important that children can have fun through our programmes. We hope many will find a love for a new sport or develop a new skill which will inspire a lifetime of physical activity.”

The enrolment date for the ‘Summer in the City’ programme opens on Monday 3 June at 12 noon. For full details on the programme and to enrol online, please click here.

 Pictured - Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett with local children. 

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has announced the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award for February & March.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and each successful winner is presented with a £100 Decathlon voucher.

The Sports Personality of the Month winner for February was Taekwondoin, Laura Burns. Laura has achieved a 4th Dan Kokkinos recognised Black Belt Dan Grade and has devoted 18 years to the Lisburn Taekwondo Club. Over a decade, she has progressed from provisional judge to class 1 by demonstrating her expertise at competitions across the UK and earning points to excel through the judging classes. Recognising her talent, the World Taekwondo Referee Department invited Laura to attend the International Poomsae Referee course in Manchester, England from 7th to 12th February. Laura has succeeded in the course and now proudly holds the title of a qualified International Referee for Great Britain, making her just the third female, and second in Northern Ireland, among the 17 UK international referees.

Triathlete, John Jackson was March Sports Personality of the Month. His recent success came at the Triathlon Ireland National Series Duathlon Race, held at Down Royal Racecourse on March 24th. Out of 63 competitors, John secured an impressive second place, completing the race in just 50 minutes and 11 seconds. This triumph adds to his accolades, as he previously represented Ireland at the European Sprint Triathlon Championships in 2023, held in Madrid, Spain.

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthaprilandmay24  Nominations close on Friday 31st May 2024 at 5pm

 Pictured L – R: Laura Burns, Lee Aston, Decathlon Belfast Sports Department Manager, John Jackson and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison.

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the Easter opening hours for Lagan Valley LesiurePlex:

• Good Friday - Building closes at 6pm

• Saturday - Normal Opening Hours

• Easter Sunday - CLOSED

• Easter Monday -  Building closes at 6pm

• Easter Tuesday -  Building closes at 6pm

Please note, on Good Friday, Easter Monday & Easter Tuesday, the following activities will finish at the below times:

• The gym and health suite will close to customers at 5.15pm.

• The Leisure Pool and 25m Pool will close at 5.20pm.

• The last Leisure Pool session will start at 4pm.

• All dryside activities will end at 5.30pm.

• The football factory will close at 5.30pm.

For Leisure Pool session times for Monday 25th March - Sunday 7th April please click here. 

For any queries, please contact the centre on 028 9267 2121 or email leisureplex@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award. The winners were selected for December 2023 and January 2024 highlighting the wealth of sporting talent in the council area.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars within Lisburn & Castlereagh. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

The Sports Personality of the Month winner for December was female archer, Erin Lunney. At just 13 years old, Erin's talent in archery is nothing short of exceptional. Over the course of December and January, she left an indelible mark on the sport by setting three UK Records, duly recognised by Archery GB. Remarkably, Erin now holds the U18 & U21 Recurve Women Double Portsmouth titles, along with the U18 Recurve Women Portsmouth, showcasing her unparalleled skill and dedication. Her journey into archery commenced through the Vitality Leisure Programme at Kilmakee Activity Centre in 2022, where her talent was evident from the outset. Erin is part of a group of five budding archers, including one para-archer, who all found their passion for the sport at Kilmakee Activity Centre and have since been selected to the prestigious NI Archery Academy. Transitioning to Lisburn Archery Club in late 2022 marked another milestone for Erin, propelling her onto the national stage. Her inclusion in the Archery GB National Talent Development Programme speaks volumes about her potential, underscored by her current title as the U14 Northern Ireland Champion.

U18 Basketball player, Fiontan Rogers was Januarys Sports Personality of the Month. Standing tall at 6’5”, Fiontan commands the court as a forward for the Phoenix Basketball Club's U18 Boys team, based at Lisburn Racquets Club. His standout moment came on January 19th when he and his Phoenix teammates clinched victory in the Irish U18 National Cup, a prestigious achievement that solidified their status as the top junior basketball team in Ireland. Fiontan's impact was felt throughout the tournament, notably in the semi-final matchup against the pre-tournament favourites, Galway Titans, where he led the scoring with an impressive 20 points. In the final showdown at the National Basketball Arena in Dublin, Fiontan continued his stellar performance, contributing 17 crucial points to secure an exhilarating 82-80 win over the Dublin Lions. His exceptional play was instrumental in Phoenix's success, particularly noteworthy considering the rarity of Northern Irish teams competing at this level in the U18 National Cup. Fiontan's all-star performances did not go unnoticed, as he was selected as part of the 25-man U18 International Squad announced by Basketball Ireland.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison said, "The depth of sporting talent discovered within our council area remains truly remarkable. This month, we are proud to honour both an accomplished Archer champion and a standout Basketball Ireland player. Both teens should be extremely proud of their achievements. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a Sports Personality of the Month nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthfebmarch24/ Nominations close on Friday 5th April 2024 at 5pm.

Pictured L-R: Roy Skillen, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee Member, Erin Lunney, Matthew Ferguson, Communication Manager, Decathlon Belfast, Fiontan Rogers and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award. The winners were selected for December 2023 and January 2024 highlighting the wealth of sporting talent in the council area.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars within Lisburn & Castlereagh. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

The Sports Personality of the Month winner for December was female archer, Erin Lunney. At just 13 years old, Erin's talent in archery is nothing short of exceptional. Over the course of December and January, she left an indelible mark on the sport by setting three UK Records, duly recognised by Archery GB. Remarkably, Erin now holds the U18 & U21 Recurve Women Double Portsmouth titles, along with the U18 Recurve Women Portsmouth, showcasing her unparalleled skill and dedication. Her journey into archery commenced through the Vitality Leisure Programme at Kilmakee Activity Centre in 2022, where her talent was evident from the outset. Erin is part of a group of five budding archers, including one para-archer, who all found their passion for the sport at Kilmakee Activity Centre and have since been selected to the prestigious NI Archery Academy. Transitioning to Lisburn Archery Club in late 2022 marked another milestone for Erin, propelling her onto the national stage. Her inclusion in the Archery GB National Talent Development Programme speaks volumes about her potential, underscored by her current title as the U14 Northern Ireland Champion.

U18 Basketball player, Fiontan Rogers was Januarys Sports Personality of the Month. Standing tall at 6’5”, Fiontan commands the court as a forward for the Phoenix Basketball Club's U18 Boys team, based at Lisburn Racquets Club. His standout moment came on January 19th when he and his Phoenix teammates clinched victory in the Irish U18 National Cup, a prestigious achievement that solidified their status as the top junior basketball team in Ireland. Fiontan's impact was felt throughout the tournament, notably in the semi-final matchup against the pre-tournament favourites, Galway Titans, where he led the scoring with an impressive 20 points. In the final showdown at the National Basketball Arena in Dublin, Fiontan continued his stellar performance, contributing 17 crucial points to secure an exhilarating 82-80 win over the Dublin Lions. His exceptional play was instrumental in Phoenix's success, particularly noteworthy considering the rarity of Northern Irish teams competing at this level in the U18 National Cup. Fiontan's all-star performances did not go unnoticed, as he was selected as part of the 25-man U18 International Squad announced by Basketball Ireland.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison said, "The depth of sporting talent discovered within our council area remains truly remarkable. This month, we are proud to honour both an accomplished Archer champion and a standout Basketball Ireland player. Both teens should be extremely proud of their achievements. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a Sports Personality of the Month nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthfebmarch24/ Nominations close on Friday 5th April 2024 at 5pm.

Pictured L-R: Roy Skillen, Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee Member, Erin Lunney, Matthew Ferguson, Communication Manager, Decathlon Belfast, Fiontan Rogers and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison.

Entries are now open for the 2024 Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run and with an extra day of training this leap year, there’s really no excuse not to get involved!

Mark your calendars for Wednesday 19 June 2024, when the popular event will once again take place starting from Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

Runners can sign up online from today and avail of an early-bird entry rate until 30th April 2024.  Early registration is strongly advised, following the 2023 event which sold out.

With the New Year not long past, it’s the perfect time to set a fitness goal and with a trio of races to choose from, there really is something for everyone on the night.

The Half Marathon and 10K Road Race, with their flat and fast routes, offer ideal opportunities for individuals hoping to progress to longer distance running or striving towards a personal best. 

The 3K Fun Run offers family and friends the opportunity to come together and complete a fitness journey of their own.   Schools and youth groups are encouraged to take part and avail of a group discount all whilst getting active. 

Events are inclusive and are open to wheelchair and hand cycle participants.

Launching the event, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Andrew Gowan said, “The council is delighted to launch the 2024 Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run. The event is a firm favourite in the sporting calendar and continues to be recognised as a popular fixture amongst runners from across Northern Ireland and beyond.  The 2023 event saw huge numbers taking to the streets of Lisburn resulting in the races selling out.

“Given that 2024 is a leap year, I would urge you all to take advantage of an extra day’s training, set yourselves a challenge and sign up for the Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run.

With proceeds from all three events supporting the Mayoral Charity, it really is a great occasion to get moving together.”

Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, added, “The Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run have been firm favourites with runners and families for over 40 years now.   This year’s event is once again being sponsored by the council’s Vitality Membership package, which offers individuals and families a diverse range of activities, sessions in multiple facilities, encouraging those of all generations to look after their health and wellbeing. Following the success of the 2023 ‘Ditch the Tee and Plant a Tree’ initiative, participants will have the option to plant a tree instead of receiving a race t-shirt, highlighting the council’s sustainability objectives and allowing those involved to make a lasting contribution to the environment.

“I would like to encourage everyone to sign up today for the Half Marathon, 10K or Fun Run on 19 June and look forward to seeing many of you there on the night.”

For further information or to register for the Half Marathon, 10K Road Race or Fun Run, visit www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com. To avail of our early bird rates, sign up online before 30th April 2024. Details can also be found on the Council’s Sports Development Facebook page, ‘Be Active, Stay Active Lisburn Castlereagh.

Pictured L-R- runners with Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett and Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Andrew Gowan. 

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council ‘Business Games Challenge’ is now open for team entries from businesses across the council area.  The ‘Games’ will take place on three evenings between 21 February- 20 March.

Events will be held at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.  Each evening promises to be a great team building night out with lots of fun and friendly competition for everyone.

Teams will have the opportunity to enjoy the following games: Dodgeball on Wednesday 21st February, 5-a-side/ 7-a-side Football on Wednesday 6 March and Tenpin Bowling on Wednesday 20 March. These games are suitable for all levels of fitness, including both male and female colleagues. Mixed teams are encouraged for Dodgeball and Tenpin Bowling with the requirement of at least one or two female participants per team.

Launching the Business Games, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee Councillor Thomas Beckett said, "We invite local businesses to join us once again for this exciting challenge, embracing the perfect blend of fun and friendly competition.

“The Business Games Challenge is a fantastic way to support the council’s goal of encouraging as many people as possible to get active together. With many of us finding ourselves spending more time indoors due to work commitments, this challenge encourages us to come together, stay active and prioritise our health and wellbeing.

“The three evenings promise to be great fun with a few trophies up for grabs, including Cup and Plate winners at each stage of the competition. The ‘Games’ will then culminate with the crowning of the overall ‘Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Business Champion’ at the end of the three events.

“I would encourage all businesses in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area to sign up today and enjoy great team events with your work colleagues.”

Aaron Moffett, Commercial Manager, ASSA ABLOY added, “ASSA ABLOY is back and ready to reclaim the title of the 2024 'Business Games Champions’. The ‘Games’ not only provided our team with a fantastic opportunity to socialise outside the workplace but also kept us active and energised. I extend a friendly challenge to all businesses, sign up and let's see if you have what it takes to steal our hard-earned title.”

To register a team, please email kevin.madden@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured L-R- Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Community Sports Development Officer, Kevin Madden, Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee; Councillor Thomas Beckett and Aaron Moffett, Commercial Manager, ASSA ABLOY.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council ‘Business Games Challenge’ is now open for team entries from businesses across the council area.  The ‘Games’ will take place on three evenings between 21 February- 20 March.

Events will be held at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.  Each evening promises to be a great team building night out with lots of fun and friendly competition for everyone.

Teams will have the opportunity to enjoy the following games: Dodgeball on Wednesday 21 February, 5-a-side/ 7-a-side Football on Wednesday 6 March and Tenpin Bowling on Wednesday 20 March. These games are suitable for all levels of fitness, including both male and female colleagues. Mixed teams are encouraged for Dodgeball and Tenpin Bowling with the requirement of at least one or two female participants per team.

Launching the Business Games, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee Councillor Thomas Beckett said, "We invite local businesses to join us once again for this exciting challenge, embracing the perfect blend of fun and friendly competition.

“The Business Games Challenge is a fantastic way to support the council’s goal of encouraging as many people as possible to get active together. With many of us finding ourselves spending more time indoors due to work commitments, this challenge encourages us to come together, stay active and prioritise our health and wellbeing.

“The three evenings promise to be great fun with a few trophies up for grabs, including Cup and Plate winners at each stage of the competition. The ‘Games’ will then culminate with the crowning of the overall ‘Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Business Champion’ at the end of the three events.

“I would encourage all businesses in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area to sign up today and enjoy great team events with your work colleagues.”

Aaron Moffett, Commercial Manager, ASSA ABLOY added, “ASSA ABLOY is back and ready to reclaim the title of the 2024 'Business Games Champions’. The ‘Games’ not only provided our team with a fantastic opportunity to socialise outside the workplace but also kept us active and energised. I extend a friendly challenge to all businesses, sign up and let's see if you have what it takes to steal our hard-earned title.”

To register a team, please email kevin.madden@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured L-R- Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Community Sports Development Officer, Kevin Madden, Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee; Councillor Thomas Beckett and Aaron Moffett, Commercial Manager, ASSA ABLOY.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated, once again, the wealth of local sporting talent, following the announcement of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Awards for October & November.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and each successful winner is presented with a £100 Decathlon voucher.

The Sports Personality of the Month winner for October was golfer Fionn Dobbin. At just 17 years old, Fionn has represented Ulster at the Golf Ireland Inter-Provincial tournaments, at both boys and men’s level, and contributed to the victorious boys’ team by representing Ireland at the R&A Home Internationals against Scotland, England and Wales. Fionn has also represented Golf Ireland as part of the European Championship team and he has played internationally as an individual in both France and Portugal, winning the Edge Golf championship in Portugal. The talented golfer has recently been re-selected onto the Golf Ireland National High-Performance panel for 2023/24. His first coaching session at Golf Ireland HQ in Carton House took place on the 14th &15th October. National panel selection ensures Fionn continues to showcase his skills on the global golfing scene. In recognition of his golfing prowess, Fionn has been awarded a full scholarship to play college golf at Kansas State University in the USA. He officially became a K-State Wildcat on National Signing Day, 8th November. We wish Fionn the very best as he heads across the Atlantic in August 2024.

Men’s gymnast David Martelli was November’s Sports Personality of the Month winner. David recently competed in the Men’s Gymnastics Irish International Trials at the National Indoor Arena in Dublin. The trials, which were held on the 4th and 5th November, saw David dominate both days and achieve a remarkable Personal Best score of 13.35 on the Pommel Horse. Driven by his pursuit of perfection, David made a strategic move to Origin Gymnastics, where under the guidance of Luke Carson, Gymnastics Ireland National Coach, he is excelling in his training alongside his sporting idol, two-time World Gymnastics Champion, Rhys McClenaghan. Coach Luke Carson recently attended the 2023 Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh LCCC Draynes Farm Sports Personality of the Awards as the event’s special guest.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer Faron Morrison said, "Congratulations to Fionn and David for their remarkable achievements in golf and gymnastics. Fionn's outstanding golfing skills earned him another place on Golf Ireland's National High-Performance panel, and he has been awarded a full scholarship to play college golf at Kansas State University in the USA. Meanwhile, David's dominance in international trials and achievement of a personal best showcase his exceptional talent in gymnastics."

"Last month, we celebrated the prestigious Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh LCCC Draynes Farm Sports Personality of the Year Awards, honouring local sporting talent. The Sports Personality of the Month provides another chance to applaud local athletes for their year-round achievements in their respective sports. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.” 

Matthew Ferguson, Communication Manager at Decathlon Belfast added, “We are very proud to support this great Council initiative to shine a light on high performing athletes in the local area. We hope that with the £100 Decathlon gift card, each monthly winner will be able to purchase the sports equipment and training aids that they require to develop further in their chosen sports. We have met many great sports personalities through the initiative and look forward to following their sporting journeys in the years to come.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/December23andJanuary24/  Nominations close on Friday 2nd February 2024 at 5pm.

Pictured L-R: David Martelli, Matthew Ferguson, Communication Manager, Decathlon Belfast, Fionn Dobbin and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated, once again, the wealth of local sporting talent, following the announcement of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Awards for October & November.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and each successful winner is presented with a £100 Decathlon voucher.

The Sports Personality of the Month winner for October was golfer Fionn Dobbin. At just 17 years old, Fionn has represented Ulster at the Golf Ireland Inter-Provincial tournaments, at both boys and men’s level, and contributed to the victorious boys’ team by representing Ireland at the R&A Home Internationals against Scotland, England and Wales. Fionn has also represented Golf Ireland as part of the European Championship team and he has played internationally as an individual in both France and Portugal, winning the Edge Golf championship in Portugal. The talented golfer has recently been re-selected onto the Golf Ireland National High-Performance panel for 2023/24. His first coaching session at Golf Ireland HQ in Carton House took place on the 14th &15th October. National panel selection ensures Fionn continues to showcase his skills on the global golfing scene. In recognition of his golfing prowess, Fionn has been awarded a full scholarship to play college golf at Kansas State University in the USA. He officially became a K-State Wildcat on National Signing Day, 8th November. We wish Fionn the very best as he heads across the Atlantic in August 2024.

Men’s gymnast David Martelli was November’s Sports Personality of the Month winner. David recently competed in the Men’s Gymnastics Irish International Trials at the National Indoor Arena in Dublin. The trials, which were held on the 4th and 5th November, saw David dominate both days and achieve a remarkable Personal Best score of 13.35 on the Pommel Horse. Driven by his pursuit of perfection, David made a strategic move to Origin Gymnastics, where under the guidance of Luke Carson, Gymnastics Ireland National Coach, he is excelling in his training alongside his sporting idol, two-time World Gymnastics Champion, Rhys McClenaghan. Coach Luke Carson recently attended the 2023 Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh LCCC Draynes Farm Sports Personality of the Awards as the event’s special guest.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer Faron Morrison said, "Congratulations to Fionn and David for their remarkable achievements in golf and gymnastics. Fionn's outstanding golfing skills earned him another place on Golf Ireland's National High-Performance panel, and he has been awarded a full scholarship to play college golf at Kansas State University in the USA. Meanwhile, David's dominance in international trials and achievement of a personal best showcase his exceptional talent in gymnastics."

"Last month, we celebrated the prestigious Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh LCCC Draynes Farm Sports Personality of the Year Awards, honouring local sporting talent. The Sports Personality of the Month provides another chance to applaud local athletes for their year-round achievements in their respective sports. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.” 

Matthew Ferguson, Communication Manager at Decathlon Belfast added, “We are very proud to support this great Council initiative to shine a light on high performing athletes in the local area. We hope that with the £100 Decathlon gift card, each monthly winner will be able to purchase the sports equipment and training aids that they require to develop further in their chosen sports. We have met many great sports personalities through the initiative and look forward to following their sporting journeys in the years to come.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make a nomination, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/December23andJanuary24/  Nominations close on Friday 2nd February 2024 at 5pm.

Pictured L-R: David Martelli, Matthew Ferguson, Communication Manager, Decathlon Belfast, Fionn Dobbin and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison.

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the Christmas and New Year opening hours for Lagan Valley LeisurePlex:

Christmas Eve- CLOSED

Christmas Day- CLOSED

Boxing Day- CLOSED

Wednesday 27th- Friday 29th December- Closes at 9pm

Saturday 30th December- Normal Opening Hours

New Year's Eve- Normal Opening Hours

New Year's Day- CLOSED

Tuesday 2nd January- Open as normal

For Leisure Pool opening hours click here

For Main Pool opening hours click here

For Mission Inflatable opening hours click here

For Gym opening hours click here

For Health Suite opening hours click here

For Football Factory opening hours click here

For any queries, please contact the centre on 028 9267 2121 or email leisureplex@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the Christmas and New Year opening hours for Dundonald International Ice Bowl:

• Christmas Eve- Closes at 5pm

• Christmas Day- CLOSED

• Boxing Day- CLOSED

• Wednesday 27th- Saturday 30th December- Normal Opening Hours

• New Year's Eve- Closes at 5pm

• New Year's Day- CLOSED

• Tuesday 2nd January- Open as normal

For Indiana Land session times click here

For bowling session times click here

For Ice Skating session times click here

For any queries, please contact the centre on 028 9080 9100 or email icebowl@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

There’s lots happening this December in Lisburn & Castlereagh!

Get in the festive swing at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex by taking on a Christmas themed Mission Inflatable session on either Sunday 10th or Sunday 17th December with a choice of 3 session times each day:  2.00pm – 2.45pm,3.00pm – 3.45pm or 4.00pm – 4.45pm.  Enjoy live DJ entertainment and prize giveaways.  Minimum ages apply and pre-booking is essential.  

Or why not book a ticket for the first ever Lagan Valley LeisurePlex Rockin’ Round the Christmas Tree Silent Christmas Disco on Tuesday 12 December 2023 from 6.30pm – 7.15pm?  This merry session is aimed specifically for children with autism spectrum disorders and those with sensory sensitivities, aged 4 to 13 years.

Pre-booking is essential and booking opens 7 days in advance of the event date. Visit here to book online.

Join the main man himself at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and book your seat at Santa’s table to enjoy either breakfast or supper and a choice of ice skating, tenpin bowling or Indiana Land for a magical festive treat.

Breakfast with Santa runs every Saturday and Sunday from 2nd to 23rd December at 10.15am. Children can enjoy breakfast, a visit to Santa’s grotto where they will receive a selection pack, followed by an activity for £18.50pp, while adults can avail of breakfast for only £6.50pp.

Supper with Santa runs every Saturday evening from 2nd December to 23rd December at 5.15pm. Children can enjoy an activity followed by supper, a visit to the grotto and a selection pack for £18.50pp. Adults can also avail of supper for only £7.95pp.

Booking for Breakfast and Supper with Santa is essential. Telephone the Sales and Bookings Team on 028 90809 123/129.

Make Christmas 2023 one to remember and take to the ice for a yuletide skate with Santa. Skate with Santa runs every Saturday from 2nd December until 23rd December with a choice of two session times, 1.30pm – 3pm or 3.30pm – 5pm. There is no need to prebook.

Get ready to jingle all the way at Rudolph’s Rockin’ Christmas Disco which will take place in Indiana Land on Thursday 21st December from 6pm – 7.30pm.  Join in on an evening of non-stop Christmas cheer with live DJ Entertainment, prize giveaways and a special visit from Santa! Pre-booking is essential. Click here to book.

Do you enjoy keeping active this Christmas? Then be sure to book your place at the annual Santa Dash, Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Carryduff!

Set yourself a challenge to complete as many laps as you can, up to a maximum of five, across the spectacular glow light trail. You don’t need to be an experienced runner, just bring along some Christmas spirit! It’s the perfect event for families, plus there is a special Christmas warm up for a night of festive fun! Registration costs £5, which includes your very own Santa hat and a selection box for crossing the finish line. To register, click here.  

Launching the Christmas events, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee Councillor Thomas Beckett commented, “I am delighted that Santa will be visiting Lisburn & Castlereagh once again this year.  I have heard he is especially excited to take up residence in his new, sparkling grotto at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and looks forward to meeting lots of children and their families this season.

We are pleased as a council to host a range of festive events to give all children the opportunity to enjoy a special day out over the festive period and capture memories that will last a lifetime.

The Lagan Valley LeisurePlex Rockin’ Round the Christmas Tree Silent Christmas Disco is a brand-new event and suitable for children aged 4 – 13 years. Tailored specifically for children with autism spectrum disorders and those with sensory sensitivities, this ticketed event is likely to be well received.

The Santa Dash at Lough Moss Leisure Centre is always well attended with proceeds raising funds for the Mayor’s chosen charity, Cancer Fund for Children, which provides support to children and young people facing cancer or living with a parent facing cancer.

I would urge everyone to have a look at the range of events happening throughout December as there really is something for everyone.”

Pictured left to right is Darci Sloan, Jodie Dowling, Santa Claus, Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee; Councillor Thomas Beckett, Jamie Collins at Supper with Santa at Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

Santa has set up temporary residence at Lisburn & Castlereagh this December!

Join the main man himself at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and book your seat at Santa’s table to enjoy either breakfast or supper and a choice of ice skating, tenpin bowling or Indiana Land for a magical festive treat.

Breakfast with Santa runs every Saturday and Sunday from 2nd to 23rd December at 10.15am. Children can enjoy breakfast, a visit to Santa’s grotto where they will receive a selection pack, followed by an activity for £18.50pp, while adults can avail of breakfast for only £6.50pp.

Supper with Santa runs every Saturday evening from 2nd December to 23rd December at 5.15pm. Children can enjoy an activity followed by supper, a visit to the grotto and a selection pack for £18.50pp. Adults can also avail of supper for only £7.95pp.

Booking for Breakfast and Supper with Santa is essential. Telephone the Sales and Bookings Team on 028 90809 123/129.

Make Christmas 2023 one to remember and take to the ice for a yuletide skate with Santa. Skate with Santa runs every Saturday from 2nd December until 23rd December with a choice of two session times, 1.30pm – 3pm or 3.30pm – 5pm. There is no need to prebook.

Get ready to jingle all the way at Rudolph’s Rockin’ Christmas Disco which will take place in Indiana Land on Thursday 21st December from 6pm – 7.30pm.  Join in on an evening of non-stop Christmas cheer with live DJ Entertainment, prize giveaways and a special visit from Santa!

Christmas Party Packages are also available. Choose from a wide selection of activities and catering packages to create a customised party package to suit elves of all ages!  

Get in the festive swing at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex by taking on a Christmas themed Mission Inflatable session on either Sunday 10th or Sunday 17th December with a choice of 3 session times each day:  2.00pm – 2.45pm,3.00pm – 3.45pm or 4.00pm – 4.45pm.  Enjoy live DJ entertainment and prize giveaways.  Minimum ages apply. Pre-booking is essential.  

Or why not book a ticket for the first ever Lagan Valley LeisurePlex Rockin’ Round the Christmas Tree Silent Christmas Disco on Tuesday 12 December 2023 from 6.30pm – 7.15pm?

This merry session is aimed specifically for children with autism spectrum disorders and those with sensory sensitivities, aged 4 to 13 years.  Pre-booking is essential and booking opens 7 days in advance of the event date. Visit www.theleisureplex.com to book online. 

Do you enjoy keeping active this Christmas? Then be sure to book your place at the annual Santa Dash, Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Carryduff!

Set yourself a challenge to complete as many laps as you can, up to a maximum of five, across the spectacular glow light trail. You don’t need to be an experienced runner, just bring along some Christmas spirit! It’s the perfect event for families, plus there is a special Christmas warm up for a night of festive fun! Registration costs £5, which includes your very own Santa hat and a selection box for crossing the finish line. To register, visit www.theleisureplex.com/book-online

Launching the Christmas events, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing Committee Councillor Thomas Beckett commented, “I am delighted that Santa will be visiting Lisburn & Castlereagh once again this year.  I have heard he is especially excited to take up residence in his new, sparkling grotto at Dundonald International Ice Bowl and looks forward to meeting lots of children and their families this season.

We are pleased as a council to host a range of festive events to give all children the opportunity to enjoy a special day out over the festive period and capture memories that will last a lifetime.

The Lagan Valley LeisurePlex Rockin’ Round the Christmas Tree Silent Christmas Disco is a brand-new event and suitable for children aged 4 – 13 years. Tailored specifically for children with autism spectrum disorders and those with sensory sensitivities, this ticketed event is likely to be well received.

The Santa Dash at Lough Moss Leisure Centre is always well attended with proceeds raising funds for the Mayor’s chosen charity, Cancer Fund for Children, which provides support to children and young people facing cancer or living with a parent facing cancer.

I would urge everyone to have a look at the range of events happening throughout December as there really is something for everyone.”

Pictured left to right is Darci Sloan, Jodie Dowling, Santa Claus, Chair of Communities & Wellbeing Committee; Councillor Thomas Beckett, Jamie Collins

As the holiday season approaches, local families are lacing up their festive running shoes as they prepare to take part in the annual Santa Dash at Lough Moss Leisure Centre.

The popular event will take place at the Carryduff facility on Wednesday 13th December at 6.30pm.

Participants will be immersed in Christmas cheer as they run, jog, or walk along a spectacular glow light trail.  This event is the perfect activity for families as you simply complete as many laps as you can, up to a maximum of five. There is also a special Zumba warm-up by one of Santa’s elves to keep everyone’s toes defrosted!

The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Andrew Gowan said, “Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking to embrace the joy of the season, I encourage everyone to sign up!  All you need is a dash of Christmas spirit and a smile. It's the perfect opportunity for families, friends or those looking to set themselves a festive challenge.

“The entry fee is £5, which includes your very own Santa hat and a well-deserved selection box for crossing the finish line. The proceeds will help raise funds for my chosen mayoral charity Cancer Fund for Children, which provides support to children and young people facing cancer or living with a parent facing cancer. Please spread the word and get as many Santa dressed participants running or walking to help support this worthy cause.”

Sarah Clements, Partnerships and Philanthropy Lead Executive, Cancer Fund for Children added, “We are looking forward to this festive fundraising event. The vital services provided by our charity work to connect, empower and strengthen children, young people and families impacted by cancer, providing support in the family home, on the hospital ward and in our therapeutic short break centre, Daisy Lodge and residential care centre, Narnia Log Cabin. With your support, together we can ensure that no child has to face cancer alone.

“We urge all those interested to sign up before 12th December and dash your way around the trail at Lough Moss Leisure Centre!”

Registration for the Santa Dash is available online by visiting www.theleisureplex.com/book-online. Bookings will close on Tuesday 12 December.

Pictured L-R- Beth Black, Fundraising & Events Administrator, Cancer Fund for Children, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Gowan and Santa Claus.

As the holiday season approaches, local families are lacing up their festive running shoes as they prepare to take part in the annual Santa Dash at Lough Moss Leisure Centre.

The popular event will take place at the Carryduff facility on Wednesday 13th December at 6.30pm.

Participants will be immersed in Christmas cheer as they run, jog, or walk along a spectacular glow light trail.  This event is the perfect activity for families as you simply complete as many laps as you can, up to a maximum of five. There is also a special Zumba warm-up by one of Santa’s elves to keep everyone’s toes defrosted!

The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Andrew Gowan said, “Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking to embrace the joy of the season, I encourage everyone to sign up!  All you need is a dash of Christmas spirit and a smile. It's the perfect opportunity for families, friends or those looking to set themselves a festive challenge.

“The entry fee is £5, which includes your very own Santa hat and a well-deserved selection box for crossing the finish line. The proceeds will help raise funds for my chosen mayoral charity Cancer Fund for Children, which provides support to children and young people facing cancer or living with a parent facing cancer. Please spread the word and get as many Santa dressed participants running or walking to help support this worthy cause.”

Sarah Clements, Partnerships and Philanthropy Lead Executive, Cancer Fund for Children added, “We are looking forward to this festive fundraising event. The vital services provided by our charity work to connect, empower and strengthen children, young people and families impacted by cancer, providing support in the family home, on the hospital ward and in our therapeutic short break centre, Daisy Lodge and residential care centre, Narnia Log Cabin. With your support, together we can ensure that no child has to face cancer alone.

“We urge all those interested to sign up before 12th December and dash your way around the trail at Lough Moss Leisure Centre!”

Registration for the Santa Dash is available online by visiting www.theleisureplex.com/book-online. Bookings will close on Tuesday 12 December.

Pictured L-R- Beth Black, Fundraising & Events Administrator, Cancer Fund for Children, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Gowan and Santa Claus.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has announced the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award for August & September.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and each successful winner is presented with a £100 Decathlon voucher.

Sports Personality winner for August was tramploinist, Jay Downey. The 14 year old is the current NI and Irish Champion for his age group. His outstanding performances in August 2023 secured him a spot at the World Championships in Birmingham, England, which will take place from the 13th to the 20th of November 2023. Jay recently competed in the 2023 Loulé Cup which was held in Loulé, Portugal from the 11th to the 15th October. We wish Jay all the very best for the World Championships next month.

September’s Sports Personality winner was Jessika Robson, an open water swimmer who made history on 9th September 2023. At just 17 years old, Jessika became the youngest swimmer ever to conquer the North Channel, regarded as the toughest of the Ocean Seven swims. Jessika started her 41km swim in Donaghadee, south of Belfast Lough and finished in Portpartrick, Scotland. With unwavering determination Jessika completed the challenging swim, battling strong tides and currents along with several bad Lion Mane Jelly stings in a time of 11 hours and 46 minutes and in doing so, set a Guinness World Record for being the youngest person ever to attempt it, let alone complete it.

Vice Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, John McFaul, commented, “The level of sporting talent unearthed across the council area continues to be unbelievably impressive. This month we have celebrated a NI & Irish champion and a Guinness World Record breaker. Both teens should be extremely proud of their remarkable achievements. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a Sports Personality of the Month nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to nominate, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthoctobernovember23/?fbclid=IwAR13pEd-QpxuRjsGdCYvE1YcR1XznuOgYryWSiP_RCkvhDr8gU-eGdzr49s  Nominations close on Friday 1st December 2023 at 5pm.

Pictured L-R: Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Vice Chair, John McFaul, Jay Downey, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison, Jessika Robson and Matthew Ferguson, Communication Manager, Decathlon Belfast.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has announced the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award for August & September.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and each successful winner is presented with a £100 Decathlon voucher.

Sports Personality winner for August was tramploinist, Jay Downey. The 14 year old is the current NI and Irish Champion for his age group. His outstanding performances in August 2023 secured him a spot at the World Championships in Birmingham, England, which will take place from the 13th to the 20th of November 2023. Jay recently competed in the 2023 Loulé Cup which was held in Loulé, Portugal from the 11th to the 15th October. We wish Jay all the very best for the World Championships next month.

September’s Sports Personality winner was Jessika Robson, an open water swimmer who made history on 9th September 2023. At just 17 years old, Jessika became the youngest swimmer ever to conquer the North Channel, regarded as the toughest of the Ocean Seven swims. Jessika started her 41km swim in Donaghadee, south of Belfast Lough and finished in Portpartrick, Scotland. With unwavering determination Jessika completed the challenging swim, battling strong tides and currents along with several bad Lion Mane Jelly stings in a time of 11 hours and 46 minutes and in doing so, set a Guinness World Record for being the youngest person ever to attempt it, let alone complete it.

Vice Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, John McFaul, commented, “The level of sporting talent unearthed across the council area continues to be unbelievably impressive. This month we have celebrated a NI & Irish champion and a Guinness World Record breaker. Both teens should be extremely proud of their remarkable achievements. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a Sports Personality of the Month nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to nominate, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthoctobernovember23/?fbclid=IwAR13pEd-QpxuRjsGdCYvE1YcR1XznuOgYryWSiP_RCkvhDr8gU-eGdzr49s Nominations close on Friday 1st December 2023 at 5pm.

Pictured L-R: Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Vice Chair, John McFaul, Jay Downey, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison, Jessika Robson and Matthew Ferguson, Communication Manager, Decathlon Belfast.

Dundonald International Ice Bowl is delighted to launch two brand new inclusive and accessible ice sessions, commencing from Friday 13 October 2023 and suitable for those age 4 and over.

Disability Sledging and Inclusive Ice Skating sessions, which will be held on the last Friday of every month from 4.15pm – 5.15pm, aim to open up ice sports to disabled people in Northern Ireland.

In partnership with the Belfast Giants, Disability Sledging sessions will offer individuals with physical and mobility-related disabilities access to experience ice sports.

The specialised adapted sledges have been funded by the Department for Communities, supported by the Belfast Giants’ official community outreach partner, Belfast Harbour.

Each adaptive ice sledge has two skate blades, mounted on a metal bracket which supports a metal frame and plastic seat.  Fully adjustable, the sledge can accommodate a range of user sizes. 

Participants can take to the ice on the sled with two short ice hockey sticks, equipped with small picks.  These allow the user to manoeuvre around the ice using their upper body strength.  Wheelchair users are welcome to the sessions.

Trained Dundonald International Ice Bowl staff will be on hand during the Disability Sledge sessions to provide assistance.  Belfast Giant players will also be in attendance, match schedule permitting.   

Alongside Disability Sledding, Dundonald International Ice Bowl is thrilled to introduce Inclusive Ice Skating.   

Also taking place on the last Friday of the month at 4.15pm – 5.15pm, these sessions are suitable for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, those with sensory sensitivities and non-mobility-related disabilities.

The specialised skating aids, purchased by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council,

are fully height adjustable with a maximum weight restriction of 220 pounds (lb).  Trained Ice Bowl staff will assist with the fitting of the skating aids to the individual’s requirements before the session begins.

Commenting on the new ice sessions, Chair of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Leisure & Community Development Committee Councillor Thomas Beckett said:

“We are delighted to partner with the Belfast Giants to introduce Disability Sledging here at Dundonald International Ice Bowl.  The exciting initiative has been made possible by the impressive equipment loaned by the Belfast Giants.   It is our aim to progress these sessions in the future to include sticks, pucks and nets for a Disability Ice Hockey experience.

The council is pleased to introduce Inclusive Ice Skating.  Following extensive research, the innovative skating aids, purchased by the council from Finland, are suitable for those with non-mobility-related disabilities who require a little extra assistance on the ice.

Both disability friendly ice sessions will take place on the last Friday of the month and coincide with our popular ASD Indiana Land sessions which run the second and last Friday of the month. 

As a council, we aim to create an enjoyable and inclusive experience for visitors to our facilities.  We hope the sessions open up ice sports for disabled people, continuing to remove barriers to participation in sport and physical activity.”

Both sessions are available to Buddy Card holders. Find out more about Buddy Cards.

Click here to book into a Disability Sledging and Inclusive Ice Skating sessions. 

Pictured is Chair of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s Leisure & Community Development Committee Councillor Thomas Beckett, Jordan Graham and Jodie Dowling, Dundonald International Ice Bowl Trained Inclusive Ice Skating staff with Mark Cooper and Ben Lake, Belfast Giants players launching Disability Sledging and Inclusive Ice Skating.

Councillor Thomas Beckett with Belfast Giant's players Mark Cooper and Ben Lake, showcasing the Disability Sledges. 

Councillor Thomas Beckett pictured with Jordan Graham and Jodie Dowling, Dundonald International Ice Bowl staff and one of the brand new inclusive ice skating aids.  

Nominations will remain open for the 2023 Drayne’s Farm Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Awards until Monday 2 October 2023 at 12pm.  Held annually, the prestigious awards aim to recognise the wealth of sporting talent of individuals and teams, residing or based, in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

The awards evening will take place at a ceremony held at La Mon Hotel & Country Club on Friday 17 November 2023. The event will focus on the sporting achievements of individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contributions as a coach or administrator. 

Nomination categories are now open for; Sports Club of the Year, Sports Coach of the Year, Senior Sports Club Team of the Year, Junior Sports Club Team of the Year, School Sports Team of the Year, Junior Sports Personality of the Year, Senior Sports Personality of the Year, Sports Person with a Disability of the Year and Disability Sports Team of the Year. 

The Alison Slater Junior and David Edwards Senior Merit Awards are also available to commend volunteers for their dedication and essential behind the scenes support to their club.

This year’s awards ceremony will again be presented by broadcaster and event host Claire McCollum with the Special Guest to be announced in the coming weeks.

Launching the 2023 Drayne’s Farm Sports Awards, the Chairman of the Council’s Leisure and Community Development Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said, “The Sports Awards recognises significant achievement and commitment to voluntary sport within the LCCC area.  Given the wide range of sporting success in Lisburn and Castlereagh, the awards are a fantastic way to celebrate and mark the difference our athletes and teams are making to their communities.

“The closing date to make a nomination for the Sports Awards is Friday 2nd October 2023. I would urge everyone to take a moment to nominate an individual, club or school for the opportunity to get the recognition their sporting achievements deserve,” concluded Councillor Beckett.

Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added, “I am delighted that Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh can work in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council for once again to recognise those locally who have encountered sporting success over the last year.

“The dedication and determination demonstrated by the athletes in terms of hours of training, whilst juggling other life commitments, is no mean feat. We also look to recognise those unsung heroes whose valuable technical support and coaching are not only vital, but an inspiration to others.

“I would like to thank Drayne’s Farm for kindly sponsoring the awards and I hope many clubs and individuals will be encouraged to take the time to make a nomination and celebrate the wealth of sporting greatness in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Ewan McAteer, winner of the 2022 Senior Sports Personality of the Year Award added, “It was an incredible experience to be nominated for an award last year, but to win the Senior Sports Personality of the Year surpassed my expectations.  2022 was a phenomenal year for myself as I competed at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games and became the first ever gymnast from Northern Ireland to make a final on the vault. I was also selected to represent Ireland for the European Championships and competed at the World Cup as a senior for the first time, all whilst studying dentistry full time, which I have recently graduated from.

My gymnastics journey started with City of Lisburn Salto National Gymnastics Centre back when I was age 8. Being recognised locally with this award is an honour and I hope I can continue to show that hard work and dedication does pay off!”

Nominations are welcome from schools, clubs and individuals, residing or based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.

Nomination forms can be completed online www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/things-to-do/sports-development/sports-awards-2023 Further information if required can be obtained by emailing faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk.

The closing date for applications is strictly Monday 2nd October 2023 at 12 noon.

Nominations will remain open for the 2023 Drayne’s Farm Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Sports Awards until Monday 2 October 2023 at 12pm.  Held annually, the prestigious awards aim to recognise the wealth of sporting talent of individuals and teams, residing or based, in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area.

The awards evening will take place at a ceremony held at La Mon Hotel & Country Club on Friday 17 November 2023. The event will focus on the sporting achievements of individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contributions as a coach or administrator. 

Nomination categories are now open for; Sports Club of the Year, Sports Coach of the Year, Senior Sports Club Team of the Year, Junior Sports Club Team of the Year, School Sports Team of the Year, Junior Sports Personality of the Year, Senior Sports Personality of the Year, Sports Person with a Disability of the Year and Disability Sports Team of the Year. 

The Alison Slater Junior and David Edwards Senior Merit Awards are also available to commend volunteers for their dedication and essential behind the scenes support to their club.

This year’s awards ceremony will again be presented by broadcaster and event host Claire McCollum with the Special Guest to be announced in the coming weeks.

Launching the 2023 Drayne’s Farm Sports Awards, the Chairman of the Council’s Leisure and Community Development Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said, “The Sports Awards recognises significant achievement and commitment to voluntary sport within the LCCC area.  Given the wide range of sporting success in Lisburn and Castlereagh, the awards are a fantastic way to celebrate and mark the difference our athletes and teams are making to their communities.

“The closing date to make a nomination for the Sports Awards is Friday 2nd October 2023. I would urge everyone to take a moment to nominate an individual, club or school for the opportunity to get the recognition their sporting achievements deserve,” concluded Councillor Beckett.

Jimmy Walker, Chairperson of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added, “I am delighted that Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh can work in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council for once again to recognise those locally who have encountered sporting success over the last year.

“The dedication and determination demonstrated by the athletes in terms of hours of training, whilst juggling other life commitments, is no mean feat. We also look to recognise those unsung heroes whose valuable technical support and coaching are not only vital, but an inspiration to others.

“I would like to thank Drayne’s Farm for kindly sponsoring the awards and I hope many clubs and individuals will be encouraged to take the time to make a nomination and celebrate the wealth of sporting greatness in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Ewan McAteer, winner of the 2022 Senior Sports Personality of the Year Award added, “It was an incredible experience to be nominated for an award last year, but to win the Senior Sports Personality of the Year surpassed my expectations.  2022 was a phenomenal year for myself as I competed at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games and became the first ever gymnast from Northern Ireland to make a final on the vault. I was also selected to represent Ireland for the European Championships and competed at the World Cup as a senior for the first time, all whilst studying dentistry full time, which I have recently graduated from.

My gymnastics journey started with City of Lisburn Salto National Gymnastics Centre back when I was age 8. Being recognised locally with this award is an honour and I hope I can continue to show that hard work and dedication does pay off!”

Nominations are welcome from schools, clubs and individuals, residing or based in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.

Nomination forms can be completed online www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/things-to-do/sports-development/sports-awards-2023 Further information if required can be obtained by emailing faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk.

The closing date for applications is strictly Monday 2nd October 2023 at 12 noon.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has launched their annual timetable of specialised training courses for local sports clubs and coaches, as part of the council’s popular Coach Education Programme.

The 2023 programme includes almost 20 courses, which are aimed at helping those involved in a sports club, to gain or add to their skills and knowledge with the aim to develop their club and get the best out of their players and athletes.

Course topics include Social Media for Sport, Mental Health Awareness, Defibrillator and CPR Training and Disability Inclusive Games Training to name but a few.

Speaking at the launch of the programme, Chair of the council’s Leisure & Community Development Committee Councillor Thomas Beckett said, “The council is delighted to continue to offer a varied range of sports courses through the annual Coach Education Programme which runs from October through to March. 

“There are many up and coming and successful sports clubs in the Lisburn Castlereagh area and the continuing success of these clubs is very much dependant on the ability of those involved in coaching and behind the scenes.  The subsidised courses, covering a diverse range of subjects, are conveniently offered across multiple locations and online, ensuring all those involved in the running of local sports clubs have the opportunity to upskill and enhance their knowledge in key areas such as Safeguarding Children and Young People in Sport and First Aid in Sport.

“I would encourage all those interested to find out more by going online and having a look at the development opportunities offered by the council which provide great value.”

Online booking opens Wednesday 13 September 2023.

For the full timetable of training courses and to book online, please visit www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/things-to-do/sports-development/coaching-courses

For further information, please email kevin.madden@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has launched their annual timetable of specialised training courses for local sports clubs and coaches, as part of the council’s popular Coach Education Programme.

The 2023 programme includes almost 20 courses, which are aimed at helping those involved in a sports club, to gain or add to their skills and knowledge with the aim to develop their club and get the best out of their players and athletes.

Course topics include Social Media for Sport, Mental Health Awareness, Defibrillator and CPR Training and Disability Inclusive Games Training to name but a few.

Speaking at the launch of the programme, Chair of the council’s Leisure & Community Development Committee Councillor Thomas Beckett said, “The council is delighted to continue to offer a varied range of sports courses through the annual Coach Education Programme which runs from October through to March. 

“There are many up and coming and successful sports clubs in the Lisburn Castlereagh area and the continuing success of these clubs is very much dependant on the ability of those involved in coaching and behind the scenes.  The subsidised courses, covering a diverse range of subjects, are conveniently offered across multiple locations and online, ensuring all those involved in the running of local sports clubs have the opportunity to upskill and enhance their knowledge in key areas such as Safeguarding Children and Young People in Sport and First Aid in Sport.

“I would encourage all those interested to find out more by going online and having a look at the development opportunities offered by the council which provide great value.”

Online booking opens Wednesday 13 September 2023.

For the full timetable of training courses and to book online, please visit www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/things-to-do/sports-development/coaching-courses

 For further information, please email kevin.madden@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated once again the wealth of local sporting talent, following the announcement of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Awards for June and July.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and each successful winner is presented with a £100 Decathlon voucher.

The Sports Personality of the Month winner for June was tennis player, Isabella Connor. The young athlete spent the month of June travelling to international tennis tournaments in Denmark, Spain, Portugal, Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Isabella achieved her best international result to date on home turf at the Belfast City ITF (International Tennis Federation) Tournament reaching the semi-finals of the Girls Singles. Unfortunately, Isabella lost out to the eventual winner however, she did achieve World Junior Ranking points and is the only Ulster Junior Female tennis player to be internationally ranked. Unlike the majority of European Junior Tour tennis players who are home schooled and attend ITF Tournaments most weeks, Isabella continues with her educational studies at Friend’s School Lisburn where she is currently studying four A Levels. When she is not studying, Isabella is training at least five times per week and competing internationally when she can, usually during the school holidays.

Also a tennis player, Charlie McVeigh was the July Sports Personality of the Month winner. The Dundonald resident is part of the Ulster Tennis Performance Programme and is one of the top Under 10 tennis players in Ireland. Charlie has been recognised by Tennis Ireland as an upcoming prospect and was granted a ‘passport’ to allow him to compete against players in the Under 12 age category throughout Ireland despite being under 10. Since competing at this level, Charlie has won four Single Titles at Under 12 level and two Doubles Titles at Under 14 level. In July, Charlie was ranked in the top 20 National Rankings throughout Ireland at Under 12 level despite still being under 10!

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison said, “The achievements of both Isabella and Charlie have been remarkable. Both tennis players have proudly represented their sport with a commitment and dedication to succeed.

“Isabella has shown hard work and dedication on and off the court. She has been able to represent her country internationally whilst continuing with her full time education. Charlie’s achievements have been outstanding. He has dominated age categories above his age level and gained valuable recognition throughout. Both tennis stars have proven how dreams can be fulfilled through hard work and training.

“I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Entries for the August and September Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to nominate, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthaugustseptember23/ Nominations close on Monday 2nd October 2023 at 5pm. 

Pictured L-R: Decathlon Store Advisor, Nathen Best, Isabella Connor, Charlie McVeigh and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated once again the wealth of local sporting talent, following the announcement of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Awards for June and July.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and each successful winner is presented with a £100 Decathlon voucher.

The Sports Personality of the Month winner for June was tennis player, Isabella Connor. The young athlete spent the month of June travelling to international tennis tournaments in Denmark, Spain, Portugal, Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Isabella achieved her best international result to date on home turf at the Belfast City ITF (International Tennis Federation) Tournament reaching the semi-finals of the Girls Singles. Unfortunately, Isabella lost out to the eventual winner however, she did achieve World Junior Ranking points and is the only Ulster Junior Female tennis player to be internationally ranked. Unlike the majority of European Junior Tour tennis players who are home schooled and attend ITF Tournaments most weeks, Isabella continues with her educational studies at Friend’s School Lisburn where she is currently studying four A Levels. When she is not studying, Isabella is training at least five times per week and competing internationally when she can, usually during the school holidays.

Also a tennis player, Charlie McVeigh was the July Sports Personality of the Month winner. The Dundonald resident is part of the Ulster Tennis Performance Programme and is one of the top Under 10 tennis players in Ireland. Charlie has been recognised by Tennis Ireland as an upcoming prospect and was granted a ‘passport’ to allow him to compete against players in the Under 12 age category throughout Ireland despite being under 10. Since competing at this level, Charlie has won four Single Titles at Under 12 level and two Doubles Titles at Under 14 level. In July, Charlie was ranked in the top 20 National Rankings throughout Ireland at Under 12 level despite still being under 10!

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison said, “The achievements of both Isabella and Charlie have been remarkable. Both tennis players have proudly represented their sport with a commitment and dedication to succeed.

“Isabella has shown hard work and dedication on and off the court. She has been able to represent her country internationally whilst continuing with her full time education. Charlie’s achievements have been outstanding. He has dominated age categories above his age level and gained valuable recognition throughout. Both tennis stars have proven how dreams can be fulfilled through hard work and training.

“I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Entries for the August and September Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to nominate, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthaugustseptember23/ Nominations close on Monday 2nd October 2023 at 5pm. 

Pictured L-R: Decathlon Store Advisor, Nathen Best, Isabella Connor, Charlie McVeigh and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Sports Development Officer, Faron Morrison.

The Stena Line Belfast Giants are proud to continue working in partnership with Dundonald International Ice Bowl for the 2023/24 season.

The only Olympic sized public skating rink on the island of Ireland, Dundonald International Ice Bowl first opened its doors in 1986 and offers a range of on and off-ice family-friendly activities, including ice skating, bowling, soft play, and studio fitness classes. Dundonald International Ice Bowl is a home away from home for the Belfast Giants, with the team making full use of the facilities when The SSE Arena, Belfast is unavailable for practice.

Adam Keefe, head coach of the Belfast Giants, said: “Ice hockey couldn’t thrive in Northern Ireland the way it has without Dundonald International Ice Bowl. We’re now in a position where we’re seeing players, like Mack Stewart and Kell Beattie, develop into professional ice hockey players right here in Belfast. That just wouldn’t be possible without the existence and support of Dundonald International Ice Bowl. More importantly, it’s great to have a public facility for members of the local community to try their hand at ice sports.”

In addition to being the Belfast Giants’ on-ice training facility, Dundonald International Ice Bowl plays a significant role in the development of ice hockey across Belfast and wider Northern Ireland, with the Junior Belfast Giants calling the venue home. Local amateur teams, Castlereagh Spartans, Castlereagh Vixens, and Prowlers are also based out of Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

Councillor Thomas Beckett, community and wellbeing committee chairman at Lisburn & Castlereagh Council, commented: “Dundonald International Ice Bowl is delighted to once again partner with the Stena Line Belfast Giants for the 2023/24 season. Ice skating remains extremely popular at Dundonald International Ice Bowl, as we continue to welcome customers from across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and the UK.

“The ice hockey practice sessions for the Belfast Giants that take place here have drawn an increased interest in the sport and ice skating in general, with many customers and visitors returning regularly to enjoy a recreational skate, participate in competitions or develop and improve their skills by registering on our ‘Learn to Skate’ programme at the Ice Bowl.”

The annual ‘Summer in the City’ programme, organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, was a soaring success with almost 2,000 local children enjoying weeks of fun, friendship and fitness.

‘Summer in the City’ consists of a wide variety of activities, including summer schemes at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Lough Moss Leisure Centre, Glenmore Activity Centre, Grove Activity Centre and for the first time this year, Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

Children attending the summer schemes enjoyed a wide range of activities and sports, suited to age groups from 5 to 14 years. The programme is delivered by a team of qualified staff and coaches and included activities such as the Leisure Pool, team sports, bouncy castles, seed planting and arts & crafts.

Many of the summer schemes also included out of centre trips, providing great value for money as well as additional fun for children.

The ‘Summer in the City’ programme also offered an extensive choice of Sports Courses including a Kids Multi Sports Camp at Ballybeen Sports Hub, a Just 4 Keepers Goal Keeping Academy at both Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Kirkwoods Playing Fields, Junior Golf Coaching Lessons at Castlereagh Hills and Aberdelghy Golf Courses and Gaelic Football Coaching Camps at Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Kirkwoods Playing Fields.

Not only do children get the opportunity to meet new friends, learn new skills or try new sports, but some courses had the added benefit of expert coaching from top level players including Sean McGreevy, former Antrim GAA goalkeeper and Down Senior Football Manager and Kilcoo GAC player, Conor Laverty

An impressive timetable of swim camps was on offer at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, with weeklong courses for adults, babies and children.

The Disability Hub at Lough Moss Leisure Centre offered Inclusive cycle sessions for all the family throughout August and a Kids Summer Club for children aged 7 – 14 years.

For the second year, the council’s Parks and Amenities partnered with the Summer in the City programme which saw nearly 5,000 oak seeds planted by the children. This initiative has been launched to align with the council’s sustainability objectives.

Visiting some of the Sports Services summer scheme venues, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said,

“I am delighted to say that the ‘Summer in the City’ programme was another huge success this year with almost 2,000 young children benefiting from a value-for-money, action packed timetable of activities.  The sense of fun and excitement was tangible as I visited just some of the summer schemes and sports courses across Lisburn Castlereagh.

The council recognises the invaluable support that the programme offers during the summer months, keeping children aged 5 – 14 years active and in a routine whilst supporting working parents and guardians.”

Vice Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee, Councillor John Gallen continued, “The range of summer sports camps held across Lisburn Castlereagh have allowed local children the opportunity to try new sports, learn new skills and make new friendships, all while staying physically and socially active.

I hope the children enjoy the rest of their summer break and I look forward to welcoming them back to one of our centres again soon, whether that be visiting with their family or for a future activity scheme”, concluded Councillor Gallen.

Dundonald International Ice Bowl has hosted the 16th year of the highly successful HEROS Programme. Over 50 young people took part in the weeklong programme.  Participants enjoyed a daily ice hockey camp at Dundonald International Ice Bowl which included lots of fun and practice, leading up to a big game on the final day, Friday 18 August.

The cross community programme uses ice hockey as a mechanism to bring young people together from Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Scotland.

Children and young people involved in the programme came from areas including Lisburn, Belfast, Holywood; Swords and Finglas in Dublin; Kinloss and Edinburgh in Scotland.

The HEROS Programme aims to use sport to develop the young people, not just physically, but mentally and socially.  Coming together for practice on the ice encourages participants to develop their team building and leadership skills, as well as promoting a greater understanding and respect for each other.  

This highly successful model was first established in Canada 20 years ago and has helped develop life skills and empower over 17,000 young people since its inception in 2000. This success has been mirrored in Northern Ireland through the HEROS Programme.

Councillor Thomas Beckett, Community & Wellbeing Committee Chairman was delighted to host the ice hockey camp at Dundonald International Ice Bowl:

“The council was pleased to once again support the HEROS programme, now in its sixteenth year, and to welcome the young people, coaches and volunteers to our ice rink in Dundonald.

It was an honour to drop the puck and start the big game on Friday night.  The dedication and commitment of the young people was clear to see as they took to the ice to perform their new skills in front of their friends and family.  Having begun the week as individuals, it is inspiring to see the strong team performance by the end of the week.

Sport, and in this instance, ice hockey, plays a pivotal role in bringing young people together along with the opportunity to develop transferable skills, such as boosting confidence, encouraging self-motivation and developing team working abilities. Off the ice, these new skills and experiences will prove paramount for the young people in their lives ahead.

I would like to thank the organisers and Canadian HEROS volunteers for delivering such an inspiring programme which I have no doubt will have a lasting impact on the participants involved.”

On behalf of the youth partners, Natalie Trainor added, “The HEROS programme works towards giving young people a unique opportunity to learn and develop life skills in ice hockey while establishing mutual respect and understanding between young people from different community backgrounds.

“The programme has been successfully running for 16 years and we are delighted to celebrate the talent, friendships and skills being developed as a result.  We hope that every young person gains from the experience and takes away positive messages from this unique project.”

The HEROS programme was developed by the youth partners; Crosscare, Army Welfare Services, Ballynafeigh Community Development Association, along with the international partners H.E.R.O.S Canada.

A group from the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) has visited Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. 

YPO are a leadership community of worldwide chief executives with over 34,000+ global members; three of which are from Belfast.

Six members and their families travelled to Northern Ireland for a weeklong visit which included key stops in Lisburn and Castlereagh.

The visiting YPO members have a keen passion for ice hockey and have travelled the world playing in many countries such as Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland and all across North America.   Their Northern Ireland trip was centred on daily ice time in the island’s only public Olympic size ice rink, Dundonald International Ice Bowl.

The group had a full itinerary packed with sightseeing across Lisburn Castlereagh including a tour of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens and a Civic Reception at Lagan Valley Island, attended by council officials including the Mayor, Chairman of Communities & Wellbeing and the Chief Executive.

Commenting at the Civic Reception, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh Council, Councillor Andrew Gowan said, “We are honoured to welcome visitors from the Young Presidents’ Organisation to Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. On behalf of the council, I trust you have been made to feel very welcome and have enjoyed your visits to our facilities.  I extend my sincere thanks to Alan Maislin and the entire group on the gift of a commissioned Neil Shawcross MBE art piece presented to us here today.”

Councillor Thomas Beckett, Communities & Wellbeing Chairman at Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Committee continued, “It has been great to meet with our visitors and to hear about their enjoyment of the trip so far, especially the time spent on the ice at Dundonald International Ice Bowl.  Ice hockey remains ever popular here in Northern Ireland, drawing large crowds of support so we are pleased to be able to share in the enthusiasm of the sport.”

David Burns, Chief Executive of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council concluded, “We are delighted to finally welcome members of the Young Presidents’ Organisation (YPO) to Lisburn Castlereagh following initial talks back in 2019.   I am pleased our team at Dundonald International Ice Bowl were able to assist in developing the itinerary and offering ice time and assistance in the logistical organisation of the trip. We hope you have enjoyed your time here in Northern Ireland”.

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the July Bank Holiday opening hours for Lagan Valley LeisurePlex:

Tuesday 11 + Thursday 13 July:

• The gym and health suite will close to customers at 5pm.
• The Leisure Pool and 25m Pool will close at 5.20pm.
• The last Main Pool session will start at 2.30pm.
• The centre will close at the earlier time of 6pm on both days.

Wednesday 12 July – The centre will be closed all day

The centre will open normal hours on Friday 14 July 2023. 

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the July Bank Holiday opening hours for Dundonald International Ice Bowl:

• Tuesday 11 July – Centre closes at 6pm
• Wednesday 12 July – CLOSED
• Thursday 13 July – Normal opening hours 

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s popular ‘Summer in the City’ Programme is back with a bang this summer.

With its usual jam-packed programme which runs across the Lisburn and Castlereagh area, providing over 2,500 places on summer schemes, swim camps and sports courses, this year for the first time saw Dundonald International Ice Bowl host its own summer scheme full of entertainment for 100 local children.

Visiting week one of the Summer Scheme at Dundonald International Ice Bowl, Chair of Leisure and Community Wellbeing, Councillor Thomas Beckett said, “It’s been great to see first-hand the fun and entertainment provided here by Dundonald International Ice Bowl.  The children have enjoyed a week of in-house activities including tenpin bowling, ice skating and Indiana Land along with trips to nearby Streamvale Farm and Omniplex Cinema as well as Clip ‘n Climb, Pirates Adventure Golf Dundonald and Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.”

“The council continues to recognise the importance and popularity of the ‘Summer in the City’ programme. It plays a valuable role in terms of support for parents and carers during the busy summer months, which can often feel long.  Offering superb value for money and catering for children aged from 5 years to 16, the programmes include a varied range of activities and sports with something to suit everyone.”

‘Summer in the City’ sessions are delivered by a team of qualified staff and coaches and include activities such as the Leisure Pool, Indiana Land, games, bouncy castle and arts & crafts.

Other venues within the ‘Summer in the City’ programme include Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Glenmore Activity Centre, Grove Activity Centre, Lough Moss Leisure Centre and Ballybeen Sports Hub.

Many of the summer schemes include two out of centre trips each week, providing great value for money as well as additional fun for children.

A programme of sports courses are delivered across the council area and allow children to experience a new sport or progress their interest in a specific area such as goal keeping, Gaelic football or golf.  Swim camps take place at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and cater from Baby Bubbles to Junior Level, which is an excellent opportunity to accelerate through the lessons programme.

To find out more about the ‘Summer in the City’ programme, please visit www.theleisureplex.com

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has launched a small grants fund for constituted Sports Clubs and other voluntary groups, as a means to support an area of development within your club.  Projects must take place between September 2023 and March 2024.

The ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund will help cover costs such as:

• Sports Equipment (Not clothing merchandise or kits)
• Marketing of club
• Facility hire to deliver program
• Hire of coaches to deliver program
• Club Development Officer Post
• Up-skilling of coaches/volunteers through Coach Education courses and workshops

Launching the ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said: “The council recognises the current financial pressure that sports organisations are facing during these unprecedented times of economic uncertainty. It is wonderful to be able to offer the third year of this fund. The 2023 ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund will provide an invaluable opportunity for eligible sports clubs and voluntary groups to avail of financial support which can be used in many ways by the clubs. In particular, we would encourage applications for projects which target under-represented groups or health inequalities as well those that aim to counteract anti-social behaviour.”

Online applications open Monday 3rd July 2023.

The closing date for applications is Friday 18th August at 4pm. For further details and a copy of the funding application form and guidance notes, please visit www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/things-to-do/sports-development/sports-club-accelerator-fund-2023#application-process

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has launched a small grants fund for constituted Sports Clubs and other voluntary groups, as a means to support an area of development within your club.  Projects must take place between September 2023 and March 2024.

The ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund will help cover costs such as:

• Sports Equipment (Not clothing merchandise or kits)
• Marketing of club
• Facility hire to deliver program
• Hire of coaches to deliver program
• Club Development Officer Post
• Up-skilling of coaches/volunteers through Coach Education courses and workshops

Launching the ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund, Chair of the Communities & Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett said: “The council recognises the current financial pressure that sports organisations are facing during these unprecedented times of economic uncertainty. It is wonderful to be able to offer the third year of this fund. The 2023 ‘Sports Club Accelerator’ Fund will provide an invaluable opportunity for eligible sports clubs and voluntary groups to avail of financial support which can be used in many ways by the clubs. In particular, we would encourage applications for projects which target under-represented groups or health inequalities as well those that aim to counteract anti-social behaviour.”

Online applications open Monday 3rd July 2023.

The closing date for applications is Friday 18th August at 4pm.

For further details and a copy of the funding application form and guidance notes, please visit www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/things-to-do/sports-development/sports-club-accelerator-fund-2023#application-process

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award. The winners were selected for April and May highlighting the wealth of sporting talent in the council area.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars within Lisburn & Castlereagh. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

April’s Sports Personality winner was tennis player, Jack McMahon. The acclaimed tennis player is ranked 8th in Ireland for his U16 age group and 11th for U18. Jack recently won the U18 Singles at the Lisburn Junior Open held at Hilden Tennis Club and over the same weekend went onto win the U18 Doubles and U18 Mixed Doubles. In addition to his accomplishments on the court, Jack is also a passionate coach for his own club, Hilden Tennis. He has devoted countless hours to helping younger players improve their skills and develop a love for the game.

Water polo player, Hannah Taylor was May’s Sports Personality winner. After a strong season for her club team Cathal Brugha, reaching the semi - final of the Irish Senior Cup, Hannah was the Irish National Team's Goalkeeper for the Home Nations Tournament which took place in Dublin on 19th-21st May 2023. Team Ireland started off strong with a win against Wales however it was the match against England that would be the title decider. Goalkeeper Hannah rose to the occasion with a superb performance with the team running out winners 11-10. This win was a momentous occasion as it was the first time Ireland had ever beaten England. Hannah’s performances did not go unnoticed and she was awarded Goalie of the Tournament!

Treasurer of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Adrian Daye, commented, “I am delighted that we can acknowledge another two months of sporting achievements through our Sports Personality of the Month Award. Both athletes have experienced a fantastic season in their chosen sport. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award. The winners were selected for April and May highlighting the wealth of sporting talent in the council area.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars within Lisburn & Castlereagh. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

April’s Sports Personality winner was tennis player, Jack McMahon. The acclaimed tennis player is ranked 8th in Ireland for his U16 age group and 11th for U18. Jack recently won the U18 Singles at the Lisburn Junior Open held at Hilden Tennis Club and over the same weekend went onto win the U18 Doubles and U18 Mixed Doubles. In addition to his accomplishments on the court, Jack is also a passionate coach for his own club, Hilden Tennis. He has devoted countless hours to helping younger players improve their skills and develop a love for the game.

Water polo player, Hannah Taylor was May’s Sports Personality winner. After a strong season for her club team Cathal Brugha, reaching the semi - final of the Irish Senior Cup, Hannah was the Irish National Team's Goalkeeper for the Home Nations Tournament which took place in Dublin on 19th-21st May 2023. Team Ireland started off strong with a win against Wales however it was the match against England that would be the title decider. Goalkeeper Hannah rose to the occasion with a superb performance with the team running out winners 11-10. This win was a momentous occasion as it was the first time Ireland had ever beaten England. Hannah’s performances did not go unnoticed and she was awarded Goalie of the Tournament!

Treasurer of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Adrian Daye, commented, “I am delighted that we can acknowledge another two months of sporting achievements through our Sports Personality of the Month Award. Both athletes have experienced a fantastic season in their chosen sport. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Over 4000 runners descended on the streets of Lisburn to take part in the 2023 Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run.

The popular event returned on Wednesday 21 June and was a sell-out.  The flat and fast course has become a firm favourite on the sporting calendar with this year marking the 40th event taking place within the Lisburn area.

Organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, the event saw competitive runners, beginners, families and schools compete for personal bests and for fun whilst taking on the challenge of one of Northern Ireland’s favourite running events. 

Some of the countries most talented runners crossed the finishing line with the impressive Natasha Adams taking top honours in the women’s Half Marathon, while Gillian McCrory took a well-deserved second spot and Niamh Marrs third. In the men’s Half Marathon, Owen Carleton made it on to the podium in first place, with James Hamilton taking second place and Andrew Tees finishing a strong third.

In the Half Marathon Wheelchair race, Karl Doherty finished in first place, with Jayne Bleakley placing first in the 10K Wheelchair race.

Emma Mitchell crossed the finish line in first place in the women’s 10K, followed by Anna Gardiner in second and Elisoa Crawford in third place. In the men's 10K, Brandon McKeown finished in first place, closely followed by Eskander Turki in second place and Gareth Lyons in third.

The Fun Run was keenly contended with Olivia Douglas picking up first place in the female event, followed by Isla Wiltshire in second and Isla Crooks in third place. The male Fun Run event was proudly won by Ashton Cusiak who excelled to first place. Second place was won by Connor Moran and third place Caleb Lewis.

Starting the Half Marathon event, the Deputy Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Councillor Gary McCleave said, “The Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run have been firm favourites with runners and families for four decades now.  

I was delighted to see so many people of all ages and levels of running experience at the start line this year.  It was particularly pleasing to meet those taking on the challenge of their first Half Marathon.

This year, in line with the council’s sustainability objectives, and to mark the 40th event taking place within the Lisburn area, we offered race participants the chance to make a lasting contribution to the environment by opting to plant a tree instead of receiving a race t-shirt.  I look forward to seeing the area along Glenmore Parkland Trail flourish with foliage over the coming years.   

“This council event, along with the many other council sporting events held throughout the year, takes a lot of organisation and aims to provide a positive platform which enthuses people to lead a healthy lifestyle.

“I would like to extend my thanks to everyone for supporting this year’s event and for contributions made for the Mayoral Charities”, concluded Deputy Mayor McCleave.

The Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett added, “The council is pleased to once again organise this great event which continues to be recognised as a key running race within Northern Ireland.

It was inspiring to see the crowds of people coming together to take part.  From the most experienced of runners striving for a personal best, to those running for fun with friends, family or their school, I was delighted to see so many motivated individuals of all ages out getting active. 

“I would like to thank the council for supporting the event in partnership with their Vitality Membership package, which encourages individuals and families to continue to engage in a lifetime of physical activity through the many activities offered in the membership.”

Starting the Fun Run event, guest speaker Carl Frampton MBE, said: “Fun runs are often the first step for people to get involved in physical activity, which can lead to an interest in new sporting areas and a progression onto other running events.

I remember my own first steps in sport, which led to me holding world championships in two boxing weight classes, which just shows where early involvement in sport can lead! I was delighted to be able to run the Fun Run myself with my children.

My kids have grown up around sport and know how important it is to keep active, both for our physical health and our mental wellbeing so it’s great to be able to enjoy events like this with them. 

“I would like to congratulate all those who took part in the events this year. I hope you are beaming with pride following your achievement. May this be the start of many more runs in the future!”

To view photographs from the event, please visit www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com or check out the Council’s Sports Development Facebook page, Beactivelisburncastlereagh. 

Join us for the ultimate Summer Pool Party on Friday 30th June! Let's kick off the school break in style with a splashing good time.

From 6pm-8.30pm when you book our normal Leisure Pool Slide Session, you can enjoy the following fun activities as part of your session:

• DJ Entertainment

• Spot Prizes

• Meet Captain Jack Sparrow & Moana 

Online booking opens at 7am on Friday 23rd June.

Please note, Leisure Pool child admission policy applies. Please click here to view.

With a killer DJ playing summer tunes, it's going to be an epic party. Plus, there will be prizes up for grabs all night long.

Only £5.00 for Vitality members & £8.00 for non-members

Adults and non-walkers go FREE!

Click here to book

Please note, age and height restrictions apply. Children must be 11 years and under 5ft in height. 

Lagan Valley LeisurePlex was delighted to once again host the Lisburn & Castlereagh Primary Schools’ Swimming Gala on Friday 19th May – the first since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The long established event was held over two sessions and saw 320 children compete in P4 – P5 and P6 – P7 categories, making it a great return to one of the largest galas held in Northern Ireland. Swimming disciplines included backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly and freestyle as well as the highly competitive relay races.

During the morning event, the P4 – P5 Fiona Bate Memorial Award for outstanding pupil of the year, was presented by Brendan Courtney, Head of Sport Services, to Edward Campbell of Riverdale PS, Lisburn.

In the afternoon, the P6 – P7 Fiona Bate Memorial Award for outstanding pupil of the year, was presented by Louise Moore, Director of Leisure and Community Services, to Nancy Craig of St Joseph’s PS, Lisburn.

The teams brought a positive competitive spirit and overall success went to Friends’ Prep School, who came first overall. Pond Park PS followed closely in second place, with St Joseph’s PS coming third.

Presenting the medals, Louise Moore, Director of Leisure and Community Services said, “It is fantastic to have this popular event return for the first time since 2019 and we are delighted with how many children entered to take part in this year’s Swimming Gala.

Swimming is one of the healthiest activities that children can take part in, and it’s great they have this opportunity to experience competitive swimming and be able to represent their school with a collectively positive team spirt. Everyone should be very proud of their achievements!

“Finally I would like to thank the staff at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex for organising such a successful event and maintaining the wonderful tradition of Primary School swimming in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award, with the winners from February and March showcasing the range of young sporting talent in the council area.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

February’s Sports Personality winner, Ellie Patrick, was selected to play with Great Britain Ice Hockey Women’s Senior Team in the Four Nations Tournament in Poland in February. During her debut game, Ellie scored her first senior goal. This is a massive achievement as Ellie is only 16. She is now waiting to find out if she has been selected to play for the Great Britain Women’s Senior Team in the Ice Hockey World Championships in Korea.

Also at the age of 16, the Sports Personality winner for March, Paige Woods, not only is she one of the top Badminton players in Ireland in the U17 age group, but has also reached the semi-final stages of the Ladies Singles in the Irish Senior Nationals. She also reached and won the final of the Ladies Doubles in the Irish Senior Nationals, alongside her partner and sister Chloe Woods, beating last year’s winners in the semi-final. Paige continues to represent Ireland at U17 and U19 level.

Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Jimmy Walker, said, “I would like to congratulate Ellie and Paige on their amazing achievements in Ice Hockey and Badminton. What an achievement for these two young women who have received such accolades at their young age. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Treasurer of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Adrian Daye, also said, “I am delighted that we can acknowledge another two months of sporting achievements through our Sports Personality of the Month Award. Lisburn & Castlereagh has a wealth of sporting talent competing at local and international level so it is fantastic that we can formally recognise the many clubs and athletes for their dedication and accomplishments.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. To make an entry, please visit - https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthaprilmay23/?fbclid=IwAR2TS4K6TJl86WpxS3L7cuzXXzJ6WDVTo6kJS73C9hvvuVfQ6T-GB8d8TmQ

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award, with the winners from February and March showcasing the range of young sporting talent in the council area.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Executive Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

February’s Sports Personality winner, Ellie Patrick, was selected to play with Great Britain Ice Hockey Women’s Senior Team in the Four Nations Tournament in Poland in February. During her debut game, Ellie scored her first senior goal. This is a massive achievement as Ellie is only 16. She is now waiting to find out if she has been selected to play for the Great Britain Women’s Senior Team in the Ice Hockey World Championships in Korea.

Also at the age of 16, the Sports Personality winner for March, Paige Woods, not only is she one of the top Badminton players in Ireland in the U17 age group, but has also reached the semi-final stages of the Ladies Singles in the Irish Senior Nationals. She also reached and won the final of the Ladies Doubles in the Irish Senior Nationals, alongside her partner and sister Chloe Woods, beating last year’s winners in the semi-final. Paige continues to represent Ireland at U17 and U19 level.

Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Jimmy Walker, said, “I would like to congratulate Ellie and Paige on their amazing achievements in Ice Hockey and Badminton. What an achievement for these two young women who have received such accolades at their young age. I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Treasurer of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Adrian Daye, also said, “I am delighted that we can acknowledge another two months of sporting achievements through our Sports Personality of the Month Award. Lisburn & Castlereagh has a wealth of sporting talent competing at local and international level so it is fantastic that we can formally recognise the many clubs and athletes for their dedication and accomplishments.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. To make an entry, please visit - https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sportspersonalityofthemonthaprilmay23/?fbclid=IwAR2TS4K6TJl86WpxS3L7cuzXXzJ6WDVTo6kJS73C9hvvuVfQ6T-GB8d8TmQ

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the Easter opening hours for Dundonald International Ice Bowl:

Good Friday: Normal Opening Hours

Saturday 8th April: Normal Opening Hours

Easter Sunday: Normal Opening Hours

Easter Monday: Normal Opening Hours

Easter Tuesday: Normal Opening Hours

We wish to inform Vitality members and customers of the Easter opening hours for Lagan Valley LesiurePlex:

Good Friday: Centre closes at 6pm

Saturday 8th April: Normal Opening Hours

Easter Sunday: CLOSED

Easter Monday: Centre closes at 6pm

Easter Tuesday: Centre closes at 6pm
 

• The gym and health suite will close to customers at 5pm.

• The Leisure Pool and 25m Pool will close at 5.20pm.

• The last Leisure Pool session will start at 4pm.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award. The winners were selected for December 2022 and January 2023 highlighting the wealth of sporting talent in the council area.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

Sports Personality winner for December was female archer, Molly McCormick who represented Northern Ireland and Lisburn City Archery Club at the National Indoor Championships back in December 2022. The talented archer finished 33rd in the Recurve Women’s category and set a new U21 Northern Ireland record of 521 in the process. Molly has broken five NI records throughout the 2022/23 season.

U14 Ulster and National Cyclocross Champion, Emer Heverin was the January Sports Personality winner. Emer had a fantastic season over the winter months winning triple titles, including the Ulster Cyclocross League, Ulster Cyclocross Championship and the World Cup Support Race. Success has continued into the 2023 season with Emer winning the esteemed Irish Cyclocross Championships in January for her age category.  

Treasurer of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Adrian Daye said, “Both female athletes have experienced a fantastic season in their chosen sport. Molly’s achievement in archery has been outstanding. She has proudly represented her country at competition level, smashing not one but five NI records on her way.

“Emer has picked up an accolade of trophies throughout the season which demonstrated her commitment and drive to reach the pinnacle of Cyclocross. She has dominated the sport in her age category with her amazing achievement in the Cyclocross Championship.

“I hope these two amazing athletes will inspire other clubs or families to make a nomination and showcase the breadth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Entries are now open for the 2023 Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run! The popular event will take place on Wednesday 21 June starting from Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

The route has become a firm favourite on the sporting calendar with this year marking the 40th event taking place within the Lisburn area.

Runners can sign up today and set a new fitness goal or work towards smashing a personal best time. It is also the perfect opportunity for individuals to progress to a longer distance after completing the council’s new couch to 5K and 5K-10K programmes.

For those wishing to take part for fun, the Fun Run is the perfect event to run with family and friends and soak up the atmosphere. Schools and youth groups are encouraged to take part and get all ages active together!

Events are inclusive and are open to wheelchair and hand cycle participants.

Launching the event, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Scott Carson said, “The council is delighted to celebrate the 40th year of the Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run. The event has remained a popular fixture amongst runners from across Northern Ireland and beyond who make it a priority to add the race to their running calendar each year. This enthusiasm highlights the enjoyment the flat and fast course offers both recreational and competitive runners looking to set a new fitness goal.

“The Fun Run is also a fantastic opportunity for families, schools and youth groups to get involved too. Proceeds from all events will support the Mayoral Charities so it’s a great occasion to get everyone moving together.”

Councillor Aaron McIntyre, Chair of the Leisure and Community Development Committee, added, “The Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run have been firm favourites with runners and families for four decades. The council is delighted to once again sponsor the event through its Vitality Membership package, which highlights the importance of looking after our health and wellbeing through a wide range of activities and sessions.

“The Council’s Couch to 5K and 5K-10K programmes, which are scheduled for May, also provide a fantastic stepping stone for runners looking to accomplish a longer distance. It’s a great opportunity for likeminded participants to start training in preparation for the big event and achieve a new fitness goal!

“I would like to encourage everyone to sign up for the Half Marathon, 10K or Fun Run and I look forward to cheering you across the finish line on 21 June,” concluded Councillor McIntyre

For further information or to register for the Half Marathon, 10K Road Race or Fun Run, visit www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com. To avail of our early bird rates, sign up online before 30th April 2023. Details can also be found on the Council’s Sports Development Facebook page, ‘Be Active, Stay Active Lisburn Castlereagh.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council ‘Business Games Challenge’ is now open for team entries from businesses across the council area.  The ‘Games’ will take place on three evenings between 1- 29 March.

Events will be held at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.  Each evening promises to be a great team building night out with lots of fun and friendly competition for everyone.

Teams will have the opportunity to enjoy the following game: Dodgeball on Wednesday 1 March, 5aside/ 7aside Football on Wednesday 15 March and Tenpin Bowling on Wednesday 29 March. These games are suitable for all levels of fitness, including both male and female colleagues.

Launching the Business Games, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development, Councillor Aaron McIntyre, said: “We are hoping that local businesses will once again sign up for this fun challenge and take the opportunity to socialise with colleagues while enjoying a little competitive spirit.

“The Business Games Challenge is a fantastic way to support the council’s goal of encouraging as many people as possible to get active together. As more of us spend an increasing amount of time in a sedentary position it is important to incorporate physical activity into our lifestyle to enhance our health and wellbeing.

 “The three evenings promise to be great fun will a number of trophies up for grabs, including Cup and Plate winners at each stage of the competition. The ‘Games’ will then culminate with the crowning of the overall ‘Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Business Champion’ at the end of the three events.

“I would encourage all businesses in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area to sign up today and enjoy great team events with your work colleagues.”

To register a team, please email kevin.madden@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council ‘Business Games Challenge’ is now open for team entries from businesses across the council area.  The ‘Games’ will take place on three evenings between 1- 29 March.

Events will be held at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.  Each evening promises to be a great team building night out with lots of fun and friendly competition for everyone.

Teams will have the opportunity to enjoy the following game: Dodgeball on Wednesday 1 March, 5aside/ 7aside Football on Wednesday 15 March and Tenpin Bowling on Wednesday 29 March. These games are suitable for all levels of fitness, including both male and female colleagues.

Launching the Business Games, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development, Councillor Aaron McIntyre, said: “We are hoping that local businesses will once again sign up for this fun challenge and take the opportunity to socialise with colleagues while enjoying a little competitive spirit.

“The Business Games Challenge is a fantastic way to support the council’s goal of encouraging as many people as possible to get active together. As more of us spend an increasing amount of time in a sedentary position it is important to incorporate physical activity into our lifestyle to enhance our health and wellbeing.

 “The three evenings promise to be great fun will a number of trophies up for grabs, including Cup and Plate winners at each stage of the competition. The ‘Games’ will then culminate with the crowning of the overall ‘Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Business Champion’ at the end of the three events.

“I would encourage all businesses in the Lisburn and Castlereagh area to sign up today and enjoy great team events with your work colleagues.”

To register a team, please email kevin.madden@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is joining forces with Jog Lisburn and Atlas Running to host the City’s first ever 5km road race. The event will take place on Friday 24th March, starting at Bow Street Mall in Lisburn City Centre.

The race is expected to attract running clubs from across Northern Ireland as well as individuals taking on the challenge of their first competitive 5K. Participants can find the race right for them by choosing from a wide range of categories based on their previous times and experience.

Children aged 8 years and over can sign up for the 1.5km Fun Run. This event provides a great introduction to running and also encourages the whole family to get active together.

Speaking at the launch of the event, Councillor Aaron McIntyre, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee said, “The City of Lisburn 5K is one of the first running events taking place in the council area in 2023. The race is a great opportunity to get moving with friends and family and create a memorable run throughout the city centre. It is also a fantastic event to kick start training towards the Vitality Membership Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run taking place later in this year. I would warmly encourage both competitive runners and fun runners to sign up for the 5K today.”

Adrian Daye, from Jog Lisburn and Atlas Running added: “I am delighted to deliver this unique 5K event in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. The race is a fantastic opportunity for running clubs to clock up some miles together and set new personal best times. It is also a great event for families and individuals to get involved and take their first steps in the sport. I look forward to welcoming everyone to the start line on 24 March.”

To enter, please visit www.sientries.co.uk . Registration closes on Friday 10th March 2023.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has announced the latest winners of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award. The winners were selected for October and November showcasing the breadth of sporting talent in the council area.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

Sports Personality winner for October was assisted runner, Aaron Kerr. After campaigning for 7 years to allow assisted runners to take part in the London Marathon, Aaron and his parents recently completed a lengthy consultation process with the event organisers.  The result saw Aaron change a 41 year old rule, which allowed him and other assisted runners to officially participate in the 2022 London Marathon. Aaron has completed marathons all over the UK & Ireland and London now proudly marks his 50th event.

Athlete, Arnar Brynjarson was the November Sports Personality winner. The talented young athlete competes both as a sprinter and multi event athlete. Over the past year, Arnar has won a staggering eight gold medals in major competitions, which culminated in him representing Iceland at the European Youth Olympics in the summer. Just recently, the young athlete also picked up a gold medal at the Irish Schools Combined Events Championships. In November, he also won a silver medal at the UK Schools U15 Combined Events Championships, missing out on gold by just 27 points.

Treasurer of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Adrian Daye said, “The achievements of both Aaron and Arnar have been remarkable. Both athletes have proudly represented their sport with a commitment and dedication to succeed.

“Aaron’s drive to make fundamental changes to the London Marathon has provided a true inspiration to others who are looking to campaign to make a real difference in their sport. Arnar’s splendid accolade of gold medals also highlights how participants can fulfil their dreams with hard work and training.

“I hope these two amazing athletes will encourage other clubs or families to make a nomination and shine a light on the tremendous sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. To make an entry, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/SportsPersonalityofthemonthDec22_Jan23/

A special exhibition has been launched at Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum to mark the 50th anniversary of Lady Mary Peters historic Gold Medal at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games. ‘Mary Peters, 50 Years’ is open to the public until 28 February 2023 and will showcase treasured memorabilia from this golden era.

The exhibition pays tribute to the sporting history of the Northern Ireland legend and includes a timeline of Lady Mary’s early career up until her fantastic 1974 Commonwealth Games victory.

The display showcases items from the famous athletes’ personal collection, which features her momentous 1972 Olympic Gold Medal, her running spikes and jersey as well as her Commonwealth Games medals which are exhibiting for the very first time. Another highlight of the exhibition is a portrait of Lady Mary by internationally acclaimed artist Colin Davidson.

Speaking at the launch, Lady Mary Peters said, “It is fantastic to celebrate my 50th anniversary with this superb exhibition in the heart of Lisburn. I hope people of all ages will enjoy coming along and viewing the full span of my career history on display. Some people will remember the sporting events first hand but many young people will get the opportunity to learn more about my journey as a result of the exhibition. It is my goal to inspire these young people through the work of my charity, the Mary Peters Trust, to get into sport and follow their dreams of lifting an Olympic Gold Medal!” 

Councillor Scott Carson, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council said, “The council was delighted to work in partnership with the Mary Peters Trust to deliver this fantastic exhibition. Lady Mary’s contribution to sport has been phenomenal on and off the sporting field. She has become one of Northern Ireland’s biggest sporting icons with an amazing tally of Olympic and Commonwealth Games medals.

“It gives me so much pride that we can showcase Lady Mary’s achievements here in Lisburn & Castlereagh. I would warmly encourage everyone to come along and visit the exhibition up until the end of February.”

Councillor Aaron McIntyre, Chair of the Leisure and Community Development Committee, added, “Lady Mary Peters is a true inspiration to many young athletes and sports clubs in our local communities. I would warmly encourage these clubs to take time out and visit the exhibition and see how a local athlete hit the pinnacle of her career from very humble beginnings. We have some very successful clubs in our council area and I know Lady Mary’s story will provide added motivation to those competing on a local, international and world stage.

“I would like to thank Colin Davidson for donating an iconic portrait to the exhibition and Lady Mary for trusting into our care such treasured items from her personal collection, which showcase the accolades of her legendary career.”

The Lady Mary Peters Exhibition is now open and will run until 28 February 2023. For further details, please visit https://www.lisburnmuseum.com/events/mary-peters-50-years/

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the wealth of local sporting talent, following the announcement of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

Sports Personality winner for August was fencer, Beth Taylor. The Lisburn resident represented Northern Ireland at the Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships in London in August 2022. The talented fencer was the highest ranked Northern Ireland competitor finishing 7th place and narrowly missing out on qualifying for the semi-finals. Beth also competed for Northern Ireland in Women’s Sabre Team at the same event.

Athlete, Joe Stewart was the September Sports Personality winner. The avid runner is a member of Jog Lisburn Running Club and recently competed in the 2022 Dublin Half Marathon finishing 2nd in the Male over 75 category.

Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Jimmy Walker said, “The level of sporting talent across the council area keeps on growing. Last month we celebrated the return of the prestigious Draynes Farm Sports Awards where we recognised the wealth of sporting talent in our local clubs and communities. The Sports Personality of the Month is another opportunity to commend local athletes for their achievements in their sport throughout the year.

“I would like to congratulate Beth and Joe on their amazing achievements in fencing and running. It is fantastic we can celebrate two remarkable sports people from Lisburn & Castlereagh who have reached such accolades over recent months. We are extremely proud of your sporting success and look forward to hearing more good news stories throughout the year.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make an entry, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/SportsPersonalityofthemonthOctNov22/ or email faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Local families will be pulling on their festive running shoes as they prepare to take part in the magical Santa Dash at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. The popular event will take place at the Carryduff facility on Wednesday 7th December at 6.45pm.

Participants can get into the Christmas spirit as they run, jog or walk across a spectacular glow lit trail. The event is the perfect activity for families as you simply complete as many laps as you can, up to a maximum of 5K.

The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Scott Carson said,“I would like to encourage everyone to sign up for this year’s Santa Dash! You don’t need to be an experienced runner to take part, you just need plenty of smiles and lots of Christmas spirit! It’s the perfect event for families, groups of friends or those looking to set themselves a festive challenge.

“The entry fee is £5, which includes your very own Santa hat and a selection box for crossing the finish line. The proceeds will help raise funds for my chosen mayoral charities Helping Hand and Atlas Centre which support both individuals and families facing real challenges. Please spread the word and get as many Santa dressed participants running or walking to help support two worthy causes.”

Councillor Aaron McIntyre Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee added, “I am thrilled that Lough Moss Leisure Centre is once again the host venue for the Santa Dash. The event has always been a popular activity on people’s Christmas calendars so it is fantastic that we can welcome back families and runners for a night of yuletide fun.

“Participants can don their Santa hats and start the evening with a festive warm up class to get everyone’s toes defrosted.  You can then choose to complete as many laps as you can so there is no need to worry if this is your first event. There may even be a few elves to cheer you along the way! Please sign up before 6 December and dash your way to Lough Moss Leisure Centre’s Santa Dash!”

Registration for the Santa Dash is available online by visiting www.theleisureplex.com/book-online. Bookings will close on Tuesday 6 December.

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has paid tribute to local sporting talent during the 2022 Draynes Farm Sports Personality of the Year Awards. The sell-out event took place at a prestigious ceremony at La Mon Hotel & Country Club.

Hosted by broadcaster, Claire McCollum, the event included a special celebration which recognised the achievements of NI women in sport. A number of special guests were invited to the evening to provide inspiration to the nominees looking to follow in their footsteps.

Special guests included netball coach, Elaine Rice who led the NI Senior Team to the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and NI Women’s most capped footballer, Julie Nelson BEM. Guest of Honour at the event was Lady Mary Peters who this year celebrated the 50th anniversary of her historic Olympic gold medal in Munich 1972.

The Sports Awards recognise the wealth of sporting talent of individuals and teams from Lisburn & Castlereagh. The event honoured the sporting achievements of both individuals and teams either through direct participation in sport or contribution as a coach or administrator.

Gymnast, Ewan McAteer was named Senior Sports Personality of the Year. This year, Ewan competed at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, making him the first ever gymnast from Northern Ireland to achieve this success on the vault. He was also selected for the European Championships to represent Ireland and has recently competed at his first World Cup as a senior. Jog Lisburn Club runners Stephen Hoey was awarded second and Karen Wilton third place in this category.

Junior Sports Personality of the Year was won by Taekwondo athlete, James Nicholson. James is the only athlete to represent Great Britain, Northern Ireland and Ireland internationally. Training at elite level from the age of 9, he has recorded his highest achievement to date picking up a bronze medal at the Korean Ambassadors World Championships last October. Cyclist Curtis McKee was placed second and trampoline gymnast athlete, Jacob Dumigan third place.

Sports Person with a Disability of the Year was a new category introduced this year. Athlete Mark Millar was awarded first place in this category. Following a long period of rehabilitation, Mark topped the podium in the Cozumel Ironman Physically Challenged Division and finished 5th in the 2022 Paris Marathon. The highlight of Mark’s career came on 25 July, when he represented Northern Ireland in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, finishing 6th in the marathon. Para swimmer, Siomha Brady finished in second place with athlete Freddie Wallace picking up third.

Another new category was Disability Sports Team of the Year. The award was won by Lightning Powerchair Football Club, which is a disability football club based at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex. Playing in the AIPF Premiership, the club has NI representatives at both senior and development levels. In 2022, Lightning had the most players called up to the Northern Ireland Development Squad for the Home Nations, with one of their players taking away the top goal scorer award. Second place was presented to Simply Judo Adaptive Team and third place Hillsborough Boys’ Learning Disability Football Team.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Scott Carson said, “It is fantastic to see the return of the Draynes Farm Sports Awards and again celebrate the wealth of sporting talent we have in Lisburn & Castlereagh.

 “A wide range of sports are represented tonight which highlights the diversity of sport within our Council area and the opportunities that are available to the local community to try a new activity. I am particularly delighted to see the introduction of two new award categories; Disability Sports Team of the Year and Sports Person with a Disability of the Year which further showcases the range of sports on offer.

“I would also like to thank our special guests Lady Mary Peters, NI netball coach Elaine Rice and NI Women’s Footballer, Julie Nelson BEM for taking the time to attend the event.  I know their stories will provide great encouragement to the next generation of local sporting heroes.”

Councillor Aaron McIntyre, Chair of the Council’s Leisure & Community Development Committee added, “Lisburn & Castlereagh has a proud history of sporting success producing many World, Olympic, Commonwealth, European and National Champions.

“The Council has endeavoured to support these teams and individuals who aspire to reach the highest levels of performance and competition. They have also aimed to encourage greater physical activity in the wider community by delivering programmes to help those wishing to improve their fitness or take part for the fun and enjoyment of sport.

“Within Lisburn & Castlereagh, the Council takes pride in providing first class facilities for visitors and athletes including Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and Dundonald International Ice Bowl. It also offers a varied programme of activities through the Council’s Sports Development Unit such as the highly popular Lisburn Half Marathon, 10k and Fun Run, which attracts both beginner and experienced runners.

“I would like to congratulate all the award winners for their achievements and to everyone behind the scenes for their commitment to sport. I would like to thank Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh for their continued partnership with the Council and also local company, Draynes Farm, for generously sponsoring the event and acknowledging the important role sport plays in our area.”

Sports Club of the Year was won by City of Lisburn Salto Gymnastics Club with Simply Judo taking second place and Jog Lisburn third place. Senior Sports Club of the Year was awarded to Lisnagarvey Hockey Club Men’s 1st XI with Derriaghy Cricket Club 1st XI taking second place and Lisburn Cricket Club 1st XI third place.

Carryduff GAC Girls’ U15 Team picked up Junior Sports Club Team of the Year and Carryduff GAC Boys’ U13 Team was presented with second place and Lisburn Youth FC 2009’s third. The School Sports Team of the Year title was won by Friends’ School Lisburn Minor Boys’ Badminton Team while Lagan College Girls’ U14 Hockey XI took second and Lisnagarvey High School Year 11 Boys’ Football Team third place.

Conor Campfield from Cathal Brugha Water Polo Club was honoured with the Sports Coach of the Year Award for his hard work and dedication developing the club. Second prize was awarded to Erroll Lutton from Lisnagarvey Hockey Club and third place went to Stevie Houston from Ballymacash Rangers Football Club.

The Merit Award was presented to six individuals to recognise the essential and valuable service they provide to their clubs in the pursuit of success in their chosen sport. The Alison Slater Junior Merit Award was achieved by James Nicholson from Ulidia Carryduff Taekwondo Club and Lilly Addis from The Trampoline and Gymnastics Network. The David Edwards Senior Merit Award was presented to Hazel Campbell of Lisburn City Archery Club, Paul Bracken of Jog Moira Running Club, Mark Montgomery of Simply Judo and Liam Scott from Ulidia Carryduff Taekwondo Club.

Jimmy Walker, Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added his support for the event: “The Sports Awards is definitely one of the highlights of the year for Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh as it gives us the opportunity to congratulate athletes, teams and coaches for their hard work and dedication in their chosen sport. We hope our nominees will inspire others to participate in sport and help develop sporting talent and healthier lifestyles in Lisburn & Castlereagh. “

Participants on the Lisburn & Castlereagh Move More programme have been whipping up an assortment of treats to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support’s World Biggest Coffee Morning.

The event, which was hosted at Grove Activity Centre, saw participants serve a mountain of tea and sticky buns to support people whose lives have been impacted by cancer. Over £330 was raised through donations from the event.

Attending the event, Councillor Scott Carson, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh said, “Macmillan Cancer Support helps care for people from the moment of diagnosis, right through to when their support is needed the most. They recognise that health, money, family and job are real concerns of people impacted by cancer, therefore it is important that people are treated as individuals, not just patients.

“The Macmillan Coffee Morning is an opportunity to support the work of the charity so that it can continue providing this valuable service in our communities. I would like to thank the Move More participants for organising the event and showing their courage and resilience to help others, despite their own challenges.”

Councillor Aaron McInyre, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee added, “The Macmillan Move More programme is a physical activity programme which provides support for people living with cancer across Northern Ireland. To date regionally the programme has received over 7,000 referrals and engaged with 5,500 participants which shows the need for the programme at a local level.

“The participants who organised the coffee morning have been attending sessions organised by the Lisburn & Castlereagh Move More Coordinator, Aaron Irwin.  Aaron is a strong supporter of Macmillan services and ensures participants receive a personalised response through the cross referencing of key services.

“Aaron has developed a close and trusted bond with participants, providing a vital source of emotional support and cancer specific classes.

“I would like to commend the participants for hosting the coffee morning and for raising a well deserved fund raising total. I hope their efforts inspire others to get invoved despite any challenges they may face.”

Referral onto the Macmillan Move More Programme can be made through a Health Professional, self-referral or through a friend or family member. For further information or to register, please email aaron.irwin@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk or phone 07392280829.

Energy levels soared at the Mary Peters Running Festival as over 500 runners descended to the start line at the Eikon Centre in Lisburn. The special running event was organised to mark the 50th anniversary of Lady Mary Peters historic Gold Medal at the Munich Olympic Games.

The highly successful event hosted some of the countries most talented runners who took on the challenge of a Full Marathon, 20 miler or Half Marathon event. Families and beginners also got involved in the popular 10K and 5K routes.

In the City’s first full marathon, top honours in the men’s event was awarded to Adam Harvey while Norman Mawhinney took a well-deserved second spot and Stephen McAuley third. In the ladies marathon, Sarah Benton made it onto the podium in first place, with Jane Leathem taking second place and Jenny Steele finishing a strong third.

John Ward achieved first place in the 20 miler, closely followed by Alister Jamison in second place and Laurence Corr in third. In the ladies event, Fiona McFall topped the podium in first place, while Eimear McCracken and Pamela Kirk battled it out for second place with McCracken prevailing by thirty three seconds.

In the popular half marathon, Aaron McAuley crossed the finish line in first place followed by David Graham in second place and Steven Paul in third place. In the ladies category Irene Clements excelled to first place, with Katie Parker securing second place and Hannah Ewart in third.

Gareth Lyons topped the podium in the 10K, followed by Wayne Morrow in second place and David Rutherford in third. Kelley Haniver achieved a well-deserved first place in the women’s 10K with Marie Sweet taking second place and Liz Robinson third.

The 5K was keenly contested with Ricky Johnston picking up first place, followed by Ben Gillen in second and Stephen Lyster in third. The ladies event was proudly won by Grace Bennett who made it home in first place. Second place was won by Geraldine Quigley in second and third place Sophia Barr.

Attending the event, Gillian Hetherington from the Mary Peters Trust said, “It was fantastic to see so many participants come out in force to mark Lady Mary Peters historic 50th anniversary.

“I was delighted to cheer on so many people of all ages and running experience around the routes, particularly those taking on the challenge of the City’s first full marathon.

“Participants were also greeted by special guest 1500m Olympic athlete, Ciara Mageean, who offered further motivation and inspiration to both runners and families. Ciara who is a Mary Peters Trust alumni athlete also brought along her European and Commonwealth silver medals, which provided a great treat for many participants who had the opportunity to have a selfie with Ciara and the medals! ”

“Finally, I would like to thank Championchip Ireland, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council and Forestside for supporting the event, which will make a real difference to supporting athletes and clubs across Northern Ireland.”

Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland Netball Coach, Elaine Rice is encouraging local sports clubs to sign up for a host of specialised training courses. The timetable is available as part of the council’s popular coach education programme.

Sports clubs and coaches will have access to over 20 courses, which are available to book throughout the sporting year. These courses will give sports representatives the skills to develop their club and get the best out of their players and athletes. Course choices include Strength & Conditioning, Sports Nutrition, Sports Psychology, First Aid in Sport and Safeguarding to name but a few of the courses available.

Speaking at the launch of the programme, Councillor Aaron McIntyre, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee said, “We have many great clubs in our council area, whose success is down to the dedication of coaches and back room staff.  The coach education courses provide a great opportunity for these clubs to enhance their skills and support the next generation of world class athletes.

“I would like to thank Elaine for helping to launch this year’s coach education programme. I know the achievements of the NI Netball Team at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham will have inspired many athletes and clubs to follow their dreams.”

Elaine Rice added, “The wide selection of courses available on the coach education programme will help clubs obtain a wealth of skills and knowledge. I hope the programme will encourage clubs to provide a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment to get the best out of players and athletes at grassroots level.”

For the full timetable of training courses and to book online, please visit https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/things-to-do/sports-development/coaching-courses For further information, please email ciara.mccrystal@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated another month of sporting talent, following the announcement of the latest Sports Personality of the Month Award for the summer period.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

Sports Personality winner for June was trampoline athlete Jacob Dumigan who won Gold at the Northern Ireland Championships in June 2022, and as NI Champion in the 11-12 age category, Jacob represented NI at The British Gymnastics Inter-Regional Challenge Cup Final in Sheffield which took place earlier this month where he became National Champion.

Para-athlete Siomha Brady was July’s Sports Personality winner. Siomha is a member of the Irish International Para Swimming Squad who made her Commonwealth Games debut for Northern Ireland in the S8 100m Backstroke Final in Birmingham this summer and the successful swimmer touched in a personal best of 1:34.08.

Chairman of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Jimmy Walker said, “I am delighted that we can acknowledge another two months of sporting achievements through our Sports Personality of the Month Award. Lisburn & Castlereagh has a wealth of sporting talent competing at local and international level so it is fantastic that we can formally recognise the many clubs and athletes for their dedication and accomplishments.

“Congratulations to both Jacob and Siomha on their amazing achievements in Trampolining and Para Swimming. It is fantastic we can celebrate two remarkable sports people from Lisburn & Castlereagh who have reached such accolades over recent months. We are extremely proud of your sporting success and look forward to hearing more good news stories throughout the year.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open for August & September. For more details or to make an entry, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/SportsPersonalityofthemonthAugustSeptember22/ or email faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Runners and families are gearing up for a special running event to mark the 50th anniversary of Lady Mary Peters historic Gold Medal at the Munich Olympic Games.

The eagerly awaited Mary Peters Running Festival will take place on Sunday 2 October in the grounds of the Eikon Centre in Lisburn. Runners can now sign up at https://endurancecui.active.com/event-reg/select-race?e=81925234

The event is suitable for all ages and levels of fitness. First times runners can set a new fitness challenge by taking on the 5K, while those looking to progress to a longer distance can take the next step to the 10K.

Runners can also sign up for the popular Half Marathon and aim to beat the clock with a new personal best time. There is also the option to take on the ultimate challenge with the introduction of an exciting new Full Marathon route, which will be the first 26.2 miler for the Lisburn area.

The final event is a special 20 mile route, which is the perfect training ground for runners looking to get some miles into their legs for other marathon events later in the year.

The 5k and 10k will take place entirely inside the Eikon Centre grounds on smooth flat roads, while the longer races start and finish inside the site but involve a loop of the local roads before finishing at the venue.

Speaking at the launch, Lady Mary Peters said, “It is fantastic to celebrate my 50th anniversary with a superb event which will encourage people to get active. Running is a great activity which can be enjoyed by the whole family, no matter your age or running experience.

“The event includes a wide choice of races so you get involved whether you are new to running or looking to set yourself a new challenge. The Eikon Centre also offers an excellent venue with a great stretch of grounds to accommodate most races in one area.

“The day promises to be great fun and I would warmly encourage families, runners and clubs to get involved and sign up today!”

Councillor Aaron McIntyre, Chair of the Leisure and Community Development Committee, added, “Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is delighted to work in partnership with the Mary Peters Trust to deliver this fantastic event.

“The council has already held a very successful Half Marathon, 10K and Fun Run in June and the Running Festival will add to the popular running calendar in the Lisburn area. We are also particularly pleased to welcome the first Full Marathon to the council area, which will provide a great stepping stone for local runners.

“We are also looking forward to cheering on participants from our current Couch to 5K and 5K-10K programmes, who will be taking part in their graduation run as part of the event on 2 October.

“Keeping active is a great way to improve your health and wellbeing so these events and programmes are perfect for getting more people moving together.

“I would like to encourage both experienced runners and those running for fun to sign up for the event and I look forward to cheering you across the finishing line,” concluded Councillor McIntyre.

Local children are enjoying weeks of fun and excitement after taking part in the popular summer scheme programme delivered by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council.

The ‘Summer in the City’, programme has provided over 2,500 places on summer schemes , swim camps and sports courses across the council’s leisure facilities. Venues include Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, Glenmore Activity Centre, Grove Activity Centre, Kilmakee Activity Centre and Lough Moss Leisure Centre.

Throughout the scheme, children have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of activities and sports, suited to different age groups. Sessions are delivered by a team of qualified staff and coaches and include activities such as the Leisure Pool, games, bouncy castle and arts & crafts.

Many of the summer schemes also include two out of centre trips each week, providing great value for money as well as additional fun for children.

Sports courses are also delivered across the council area and allow children to experience a new sport or progress their interest in a specific area.  Swim camps take place at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex and cater from Baby Bubbles to Junior Level, which is an excellent opportunity to accelerate through the lessons programme.

Visiting some of the Sports Services summer scheme venues, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee, Councillor Aaron McIntyre said,

 “The council recognises the valuable support that summer schemes offer busy and working parents over the holidays.  The schemes ensure children continue to stay active and promotes a lifestyle of health and physical activity for all ages.  The children have had the opportunity to try new sports and make new friendships, all of which helps improve their confidence and social skills particularly when they are off school.  

“The ‘Summer and the City’ programme caters for children aged 5-14 years and includes an extensive choice of sports and activities to suit everyone. This allows children to enrol on a number of different sessions over the summer and gain a different experience each week.

 “I hope all the children continue to enjoy the rest of their summer scheme.  I look forward to welcoming them back to one of our centres again soon, either visiting with their family or for a future activity scheme”, concluded Councillor McIntyre

Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh has celebrated the wealth of local sporting talent, following the announcement of the prestigious Sports Personality of the Month Award.

Sponsored by Decathlon, the award recognises the achievements and dedication of sporting stars in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The winners are selected each month by the Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh Committee and a £100 voucher is awarded to each successful winner.

The latest winners included ice skater, Adam Rajab, who is ranked 1st in the British National Ice Skating rankings in the UK & GB for his age and standard. After qualifying for the British Championships in April, Adam amazingly returned home with a Silver Medal, which was the first podium position in over 20 years for Northern Ireland at the event.

Athlete, Heather Patterson was the second winner this month. Heather who is a member of Jog Lisburn Running Club smashed the UK record for her age category at the Falls Park parkrun in May. Heather is an amazing 75 years old.

Treasurer of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh, Adrian Daye said, “I am delighted that we can acknowledge the achievements of local athletes through our Sports Personality of the Month and formally recognise the breadth of talent in our communities. I would like to thank Decathlon for their ongoing commitment to sponsoring the awards and making the initiative possible.

“Congratulations to both Adam and Heather on their amazing achievements in their sport. It is fantastic, we can celebrate two remarkable sports people from Lisburn & Castlereagh who have reached such accolades over recent months. We are extremely proud of your sporting success and look forward to hearing more good news stories throughout the year.”

Entries for the latest Sports Personality of the Month are currently open. For more details or to make an entry, please visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/LCCCSportsPersonalityofthemonth or email faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Adrenaline levels soared at the Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run as thousands of runners descended to the start line to take part in the eagerly awaited races. The popular event returned to the streets of Lisburn on Wednesday 22 June after a 3 year absence following the pandemic.

Organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, the event saw competitive runners, beginners, families and schools take on the challenge of one of Northern Ireland’s favourite running events. 

Some of the countries most talented runners crossed the finishing line with the impressive Karen Alexander taking top honours in the women’s Half Marathon, while Leeann Gibson took a well-deserved second spot and Fiona McFall third. In the men’s Half Marathon, Conor Gallagher made it on to the podium in first place, with Chris Madden taking second place and James Hamilton finishing a strong third.

In the Half Marathon Wheelchair race, Mark Miller finished in first place with Karol Doherty taking second.

Gemma McDonald crossed the finish line in first place in the women’s 10K, followed by Martsje Hell in second and Elisoa Crawford in third place. In the men's 10K, Gareth Lyons finished in first place, closely followed by Tom Baird in second place and Stephen Whylie in third.

The Fun Run was keenly contended with Anna Broderick picking up first place in the female event, followed by Katie Mulholland in second and Isla Wiltshire in third place. The male Fun Run event was proudly won by Luke McCausland who excelled to first place. Second place was won by Ashton Cusick and third place Finn Powell.

Starting the Half Marathon event, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh, Councillor Scott Carson said, “The Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run have been firm favourites with runners and families for almost four decades. Tonight is very much the first step to normality as we continue to build on the success of the event once again.

“I was delighted to cheer on so many people of all ages and levels of running experience at the startline, particularly those taking on the challenge of their first Half Marathon.

“The Council is delighted to organise so many sporting events, similar to this one, which provides such a positive platform to encourage people to lead a healthy lifestyle.

“Finally I would like to thank everyone for supporting the event and helping to raise donations for my Mayoral Charities, Helping Hands and the Atlas Centre”, concluded Mayor Carson.

The Chairman of the Leisure & Community Development Committee, Councillor Aaron McIntyre added, “The Council is pleased to once again organise this great event and inspire people to come together to get active.

“It was fantastic to see so many participants come out in force to take part in the three events from experienced runners striving for a personal best to those just running with family and friends or their school.  I was delighted to meet so many people around the course earlier when completing the 10K, which was so motivating.

“I would like to thank the council for supporting the event in partnership with their Vitality Membership package, which provides further opportunities for people to get active and have fun together.”

Starting the Fun Run event, Lady Mary Peters, said: “Fun runs are often the first step for people to get involved in physical activity, which can often lead to an interest in other sports or progression onto future running events.

“I remember my own first steps in sport, which led to an Olympic Gold in the Munich Summer Games, 50 years ago, which just shows where early involvement in sport can lead.

“Keeping Active is a great way to improve your health and wellbeing which is so important to everyone, particularly after the challenge of the last two years.

“I would like to congratulate everyone who took part in the event. You should be very proud of your achievement and hopefully it will be the start of many more runs to come!”

To view photographs from the event, please visit www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com or check out the Council’s Sports Development Facebook page, Beactivelisburncastlereagh. 

Children from across Lisburn & Castlereagh are gearing up for a summer of fun as the council’s popular ‘Summer in the City’ programme launches on Monday 6 June at 11am.

This year’s programme is jam packed with activity schemes and sports courses to keep children entertained throughout the summer months. It’s the perfect guide for busy parents looking to get their little ones active!

The Council’s summer scheme is open to children aged 5 – 14 years and includes; coached activities, games, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and much more. Schemes will be delivered at various facilities across the council area.

Children can also try out a new sport with a choice of Gaelic Football, Cricket and even Ice Skating camps!  For something that little bit different, there is a Forest School Summer Scheme at Moira Demesne, which is perfect for children with a love of the great outdoors!

Launching the programme, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee, Councillor Sharon Skillen said, “The ‘Summer in the City’ programme is a fantastic opportunity for children to fill their summer holidays with a different activity each week.  I know many parents eagerly look forward to the launch of the programme to plan in childcare or ensure their kids get out of the house and meet new friends.

“Keeping active helps improve our health and mental wellbeing so it is important that children can have fun through our programmes. We hope many will find a love for a new sport or develop a new skill which will inspire a lifetime of physical activity.

“I would encourage parents to sign up for ‘Summer in the City’ and make the school holidays one to remember.”

The enrolment date for the ‘Summer in the City’ programme commences from Monday 6 June at 11am. For full details on the range of activities and to enrol online, please visit www.theleisureplex.com/activities/summer-in-the-city

Leisure & Community Development Committee Chair, Councillor Sharon Skillen and Vice Chair Councillor Thomas Beckett welcomed over 120 children to the Ulster Badminton Schools Good Relations Festival hosted at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex on Thursday 24 March 2022.

The Ulster Badminton Schools Good Relations Festival is part of cross community programme within the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.  The festival included fun badminton activities along with good relations activity from Holywood Family Trust.  Pupils from four schools across the Lisburn & Castlereagh area were in attendance: Ballymacward Primary School, Carr Primary School, Riverdale Primary School and St Ita’s Primary School.

Pictutred: Kyle Dunn, Club & Coaching Officer Ulster Badminton; Councillor Sharon Skillen, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee; Councillor Thomas Beckett, Vice Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee and Faron Morrison, Sports Development Officer. 

Pictutred: Back row: Kyle Dunn, Club & Coaching Officer Ulster Badminton; Councillor Sharon Skillen, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee; Councillor Thomas Beckett, Vice Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee

Front row: Cael McDonald, Ballymacward Primary School; Sonny Burnes, St Ita's Primary School; Lucy Martin, Riverdale Primary School and Annabelle Lewis, Carr Primary School. 

Pictured: Liam McCusker, Holywood Family Trust with pupils from local primary schools. 

A programme of energetic IFA courses has hit the back of the net with pupils from Laurelhill Community College in Lisburn.

The course was delivered by the Irish Football Association to Year 13 and 14 pupils as part of their BTEC National Diploma in Sports. The college is the only post primary school to provide this unique qualification for its pupils.

The aim of the training was to complement the syllabus by equipping pupils with practical experience and theoretical knowledge involved in coaching. Sessions included an IFA Referees Course, Grassroots Introductory and Futsal Introductory.

Councillor Thomas Beckett, Vice Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee said: “The training offered by the IFA equips young people with valuable knowledge and skills which they can transfer to both a club and school setting.

“Laurelhill Community College has strong links with local sports clubs in Lisburn, including successful working relationships with Hillsborough Boys and Ballymacash Rangers. Additionally, many pupils currently play for and volunteer at clubs such as Lisburn Rangers, Lisburn Distillery and Lower Maze. It is hoped on completion of the programme, pupils can now make a real difference in our communities by using their new skills to volunteer their time and ease coaching pressure at club level.

“Students are also involved in coaching sessions with Ballymacash Primary School, Killowen Primary School as well as coaching their Year 8 and 9 peers. They have also coordinated and officiated the Lisburn Primary Schools Football League every Thursday which has been a roaring success.

“This mix of experience gained through the IFA programme has clearly had a positive impact on the pupils in terms of their skill set and enjoyment of the participants. I look forward to hearing how the pupils progress as they take their first steps on the coaching ladder.”

Jimmy Walker, Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added: “Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh was delighted to offer financial assistance to deliver this unique training opportunity within Laurelhill Community College.

“The pupils have gained a wealth of new experience which will provide a solid foundation for a career or volunteering role within the local community. I would like to thank the IFA for supporting the programme and helping to inspire the next generation of sports coaches.

Pictured: Pupils from Laurelhill Community College along with Mr J Martin, Principal of Laurelhill Community College School; Gary Devenney, BTEC Sports Tutor; Councillor Thomas Beckett, Vice Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee; Damian McLaughlin, Schools and Futsal Officer Irish FA; Faron Morrison, Sports Development Officer and Mr Jimmy Walker, Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh.

Pictured L-R:  Damian McLaughlin, Schools and Futsal Officer Irish FA; Gary Devenney, BTEC Sports Tutor; Mr Jimmy Walker, Chair of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh; Faron Morrison, LCCC Sports Development Officer; Ellie Kenwell; Councillor Thomas Beckett, Vice Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee and Kurtis Lyons.

Athletes from across Lisburn & Castlereagh are being offered a unique opportunity to receive help with their training through a new Elite Athlete Club initiative. The programme was launched by Lady Mary Peters to inspire young people to reach their potential in sport.

The Elite Athletes Club provides eligible athletes with free entry to the gym and swimming pool at council leisure facilities. The aim is to support athletes with their training by helping them fulfil their fitness and strength & conditioning goals.

The programme is open to those who can demonstrate their sporting success performing at Ulster, Northern Ireland, Ireland, Great Britain or County level. They must also reside within the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.

Praising the Elite Athletes Club, Lady Mary Peters said: “It has been a challenge for many athletes to stay on course with their training throughout the pandemic. Opportunities such as the Elite Athlete Club, offered by Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, will make a real difference to the development and progress of young people in their sport.

“It was a pleasure to meet both James Clark and Ellie Scott who have achieved amazing success in hockey and football. I look forward with excitement to hear of their sporting success throughout the rest of the sporting year.”

Councillor Sharon Skillen, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee added: “I am delighted that the council can support the many talented sports people in our community who are performing at local, national and international level.

I hope the Elite Athlete Club can support their training programme by offering free entry to our gyms and swimming pool at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex. Participants will now receive a Vitality card, which means they can book our facilities as often as they need throughout the year.

“I would like to thank Lady Mary Peters for helping to promote the programme. I know her Gold medal at Munich Summer Olympics in 1972 has inspired so many people over the years to reach the highest level in their sport.”

Jimmy Walker, Chairman of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh said, “I am delighted that Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh can work in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to develop sport in the area.

“The Elite Athlete Club will help athletes focus their training to help nurture the amazing talent we have on our doorstep. Grant aid is also available to assist with travel and accommodation costs for competitions outside of Northern Ireland”.

To request an application form, please email Faron Morrison, Sports Development Officer: Faron.morrison@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Pictured from L-R: Councillor Sharon Skillen, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee; Jimmy Walker, Chairman of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh; James Clark; Councillor Thomas Beckett, Vice Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee Ellie Scott and Lady Mary Peters.

Pictured from L-R: Jimmy Walker, Chairman of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh; Councillor Sharon Skillen, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee; Councillor Thomas Beckett, Vice Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee; Ellie Scott and Lady Mary Peters.

Pictured from L-R: Lady Mary Peters; Jimmy Walker, Chairman of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh; Councillor Sharon Skillen, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee; Councillor Thomas Beckett, Vice Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee and James Clark.

The Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run is back for 2022! After two years away due to the pandemic, the event returns to live racing on Wednesday 22 June 2022 at 6.30pm.

Starting at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex, the event is a firm favourite on the sporting calendar, attracting participants from across Northern Ireland and beyond.  Runners can use the opportunity to get back into training or beat the clock with a new Personal Best time.

For those wishing to take part for fun, the 3K Fun Run is a great event to run with family and friends while soaking up the atmosphere. Schools and youth groups are encouraged to register and get all ages active together!

All events are inclusive and are open to wheelchair and hand cycle participants. What’s more, all participants who register before 30 April, can avail of the new early bird rate.

Speaking at the launch of the event, the Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Alderman Stephen Martin said, “The Vitality Membership Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run has been a popular event in the running calendar for almost four decades. I know many runners have missed live racing due to the pandemic so there will be some very excited participants eager to get back out training again.

“I would warmly encourage families, schools and youth groups to get involved too with proceeds from the event supporting my Mayoral Charities. This year’s Fun Run will be a great opportunity to get moving together and create a memorable night for everyone once again.”

Councillor Sharon Skillen, Chair of the Leisure and Community Development Committee, added, “I am delighted to see the return of the Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run. The event is one of the largest participation sports in Northern Ireland and it has been missed by the thousands of runners who normally take part each year.

“With the growing popularity of our Vitality Membership package, the council continues to offer a wide range of events and programmes to get people active. Given the challenge of the last two years, we are aware more than ever about the importance of looking after our physical health & wellbeing through these opportunities.

“I would like to encourage both competitive runners and fun runners to sign up for the event and I look forward to cheering you across the finish line on 22 June,” concluded Councillor Skillen.

For further information or to register for the Half Marathon, 10K Road Race or Fun Run, visit www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com. To avail of our early bird rates, sign up online before 30th April 2022. Details can also be found on the Council’s Sports Development Facebook page, ‘Be Active, Stay Active Lisburn Castlereagh.

Fifty six young athletes from Lisburn & Castlereagh have been presented with a special Bursary Award in recognition of their sporting achievements. The award was presented by Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh to help young people reach their potential in sport.

To qualify for a bursary, successful applicants had to demonstrate their sporting prowess performing for Ulster, Northern Ireland, Ireland, Great Britain or County level. A wide range of sporting disciplines were represented, including young people competing in athletics, gymnastics, BMX, Taekwondo, hockey, Gaelic football, bowls, netball, soccer, motorcycle racing, equestrian and racquet sports.

Councillor Sharon Skillen, Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee praised the Bursary winners. She said, “I am delighted to see so many young sports people receive a Sports Bursary. The award highlights the sporting talent we have in our community who are representing the council area at local, national and international level.

“I hope the award helps these young people in their pursuit for excellence in their chosen sport. I appreciate the hours of training and travel costs that it takes to reach your potential and I hope the bursary will make a small difference to help you fulfil your sporting ambitions.”

Jimmy Walker, Chairman of Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh added, “I am delighted that Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh can work in partnership with Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council to recognise the achievements of these young people.

“The Young Athlete Bursary Award will provide financial help towards some of the costs of training, travel and equipment, which I hope will have a positive impact on your sporting accomplishments.

 “Sport Lisburn & Castlereagh are very proud of your achievements and look forward to hearing about your success stories throughout the year.”

Lagan Valley LeisurePlex is holding two unique recruitment open days for the positions of Leisure Assistant and Trainee Leisure Assistant. The recruitment days will take place on Thursday 24 February, 5pm-9pm and Saturday 26 February, 11am-5pm.

By attending an open day, candidates will have the opportunity to complete a swimming test, fill out an application form and interview - all on the same day. It is a great way to fast track through the recruitment and selection process.

Councillor Thomas Beckett, Vice Chair of the Leisure & Community Development Committee welcomed the recruitment open days: “The LeisurePlex is currently recruiting for Leisure Assistants, which is an exciting opportunity for prospective staff to work in a dynamic and energetic environment. The facility is one of Northern Ireland’s leading visitor attractions which will open doors to a wealth of skills and experience in the leisure and tourism sector.

“The council has also recently created a Trainee Leisure Assistant role which means staff will be taken through a NPLQ Qualification, which is a fantastic personal development prospect. Once qualified, trainees will then progress to the Leisure Assistant role on a higher salary band.

“A number of roles are available on a full time, part-time and casual basis. It is essential that all applicants can complete a basic swimming test, which is the first part of the recruitment process. A National Lifeguarding Qualification is also desirable but not essential.”

The rate of pay for a Leisure Assistant role is £10.01 per hour and the Trainee Leisure Assistant is £9.62 per hour. The Trainee role rate will rise to £10.01 once qualified.

To register for one of the recruitment open days, please phone the Senior Leisure Assistant Team at Lagan Valley LeisurePlex on 07792261393