The sun sets on a group enjoying a relaxing evening of SUP Yoga at Lough Ennell with tutor Caroline Young as part of HER Outdoors Week.

Biggest ever number for HER Outdoors Week

Published: Sun 1 Sep 2024, 9:00 AM

Last updated: Mon 2 Sep 2024, 9:48 AM

Westmeath Sports Partnership have confirmed that they recorded their biggest ever number of participants for programmes for HER Outdoors Week.

The annual event, which is led by Sport Ireland through the Local Sports Partnerships, aims to celebrate and encourage more females to get out and enjoy the benefits of being outdoors while highlighting the opportunities for females to get involved in outdoor physical activity.

Ladies enjoying Boxercise in Mullingar Town park with tutor Ken Fitzpatrick as part of Her Outdoors Week.

Almost 500 females of all ages and abilities enjoyed 28 events led by or supported by Westmeath Sports Partnership between August 12 and 18.

Activities included inspiring stories, and a strong sense of community and friendship as women took to the outdoors and embraced new opportunities and physical activities.

There was something for everyone to enjoy, from early morning pilates and dips in Lough Owel in association with Midland Tri Club, Kilbeggan and Collinstown Pitch and Putt Clubs hosting successful come and try sessions, and mountain biking at Mullaghmeen Forest getting the adrenaline pumping.

A group of ladies enjoying a mountain biking taster session in Mullaghmeen Forest with tutor Al as part of HER Outdoors Week.

Other highlights included yoga and tai chi classes in Mullingar Town Park and Dún na Sí in Moate, inclusive orienteering at Athlone Regional Sports Centre, stand-up paddleboard yoga at Lough Ennell, kayaking for women in Ballynacargy Harbour, and boxercise in Mullingar Town Park.

Ladies enjoying a pitch and putt taster programme at Kilbeggan P&P Club as part of HER Outdoors Week.

Westmeath Sports Partnership’s outdoors development officer Cian Fogarty, said: “It was really exciting to see participants of all ages and fitness levels enjoy the opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes of Westmeath, connect with like-minded women, and discover new hobbies and passions.”

Westmeath Sports Partnership thank all participants, their tutors and the sports clubs and organisations who collaborated to host opportunities during HER Outdoors Week.

“We also wish to thank Sport Ireland for their continued support of women in sport and HER Outdoors Week.”