Star athlete Sean Tobin returns to his roots to celebrate the ‘Daily Mile’
Children from two classes at St Oliver’s National School in Clonmel were treated to a rare experience of running on the track with local athletics hero Seán Tobin (Clonmel A.C.) at the TUS Regional Sports Hub.
The track gathering at TUS was to celebrate The Daily Mile – the 15-minutes-a-day programme promoted by Athletics Ireland.
Seán, who recently won the national 3,000m title at the 123.ie National Track & Field Championships in Abbotstown in Dublin, was delighted to talk and run with the children from the school that he once attended.
“It was lovely to join with the children who were participating in The Daily Mile and it was really nice to be able to give something back to the primary school that I attended all those years ago,” Seán said.
This was a special track visit for the children from St Oliver’s who were accompanied by school principal Valerie Slattery and teachers Mrs Whelan, Mrs Fitzgerald and Mr O’Dwyer.
“As part of our Wellness Initiatives this year, some of the children took part in this event for The Daily Mile at TUS, “ Valerie Slattery said. “The children had an absolutely fantastic time during the warming-up and running activities.
“They were especially privileged to be mentored by Seán Tobin. The children were also fascinated to learn that Sean also won the Antarctic Ice Marathon in 2022.
“Both Seán and Frank Greally, Athletics Ireland Ambassador for The Daily Mile, delivered motivational talks, sharing their personal experiences and insights into the world of athletics.
They both encouraged the children to work hard and aim high in all areas of life. The students left the event feeling inspired and more determined than ever to pursue their goals.
“As a past pupil of our school, Seán Tobin is an ongoing inspiration and his great success and positive and professional attitude motivates our children to pursue excellence in athletics and life.
Patrick Davoren, TUS Sports Facility Coordinator, said.
“Athletics is all about grassroots. That is where Sean Tobin’s highly successful athletics career began when he attended St Oliver’s N.S. By encouraging children and families to enjoy the facilities here at TUS Regional Sports Hub, we will create a healthier society and also discover some athletics stars of the future.”
The IMC/TUS Track & Field Meet takes place on the track on Saturday, May 3rd and the meet includes a special hammer and shot put competition dedicated to the memory of the legendary Olympic Hammer Thrower, Dr Pat O’Callaghan. Special Guest will be multiple national hammer throw champion and Olympian Nicola Tuthill (Bandon AC). There will also be male and female track events at 400m, 800m, 1500m and 3000m
There will also be a Special Event featuring The Daily Mile and an invitation has gone out to all primary schools in the Clonmel and Carrick on Suir area to encourage children to participate in this non- competitive event.