None Ireland’s biggest triathlon, the Waterways Ireland TriAthlone, are searching for volunteers to help with this year’s event, which will take place in Athlone on the 12th of July. The Waterways Ireland TriAthlone is set to attract 1,500 competitors this year, a number up again on last year’s entry. The event will also play host to the European Triathlon Championships in 2010 that will see 4,000 entrants from across Europe taking part.
This year the event hopes to get a great team of volunteers together to increase the standing of the event across the country in what is Ireland’s premier competition for triathletes. This year’s race will be an integral part of training for Ireland’s two top triathletes, Emma Davis and Gavin Noble, who will hopefully be under a month away from competing in the Beijing Olympics.
Ronan Keogh is the Volunteers Co-ordinator and he believes this is a great opportunity for people to get out and support their town and sport in the county by lending a helping hand on the day.
“Waterways Ireland TriAthlone is now Ireland’s premier triathlon event but it has only become that with the help of people who have generously given their time and support to make the event work. This year again we need to call on the people of Athlone and the surrounding areas and counties to help with this fantastic event. Everyone who takes part will receive a goodie bag, t-shirt and is guaranteed a great day as part of the Waterways Ireland TriAthlone team,” Keogh said.
This year will see Athlone Credit Union as sponsors of the volunteers, a role which they have committed to for the next three year’s up until the European Championships.
Michael Dillon, CEO of Athlone Credit Union, is delighted to be involved with this year’s event. “The link between TriAthlone and the Credit Union is a natural one. The history of the Credit Union is based on volunteerism and TriAthlone simply would not be able to function without the help and support of the volunteers. Athlone Credit Union is 42 years at the heart of the community in Athlone and to be involved with what is a great showcase for sport in the town and Ireland in general is a great honour for us,” Dillon announced.
The Volunteer Recruitment Open Night is taking place on Friday the 6th of June in the Prince Hotel, Athlone at 8:00pm. All those interested in being a part of Ireland’s biggest triathlon, the Waterways Ireland TriAthlone, are urged to come along on that night. Alternatively people can contact Ronan Keogh, Volunteers Co-ordinator, on 087 994 9939 for further details.