Ambassadors Philly McMahon, Michael Fennelly, Mickey Harte and Dr. Aoife Lane crossing the 'finish line' held by students Abbey Mahoney and Jamie Smyth at the healthy clubs launch. Photo: Cody Glenn/Sportsfile

GAA's healthy clubs roadshow is coming to Mayo

THE GAA, in partnership with Irish Life and Healthy Ireland, will host a free roadshow for all Connaught GAA clubs, featuring an exciting mix of GAA stars plus local clubs that are already involved in the award-winning Healthy Clubs Project (HCP).

Philly McMahon, Mickey Harte, Anna Geary and Michael Fennelly will all be contributing to the roadshow, taking place in the Centre of Excellence, Ballyhaunis, this Saturday, February 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The roadshow aims to inspire and empower more GAA clubs to support their members and communities in pursuit of better physical, social and mental wellbeing by getting involved in the HCP.

Created in 2013, with the support of the HSE, National Office for Suicide Prevention, Irish Life and Healthy Ireland, the intention of the HCP is that every GAA club will become a hub for health and wellbeing.

Sixty clubs currently participate in phase two of the HCP, with at least one in each county. With support from the GAA’s new health and wellbeing structures, they are supported in how best to make their clubs more health-enhancing, covering a variety of topics including physical activity, emotional wellbeing, health screening, healthy eating, drug, alcohol, and gambling education, anti-smoking; youth and community development, alongside providing activities for older members of the community.

The project has already run to huge success in 60 clubs nationally, hosting wide-ranging initiatives such as Operation Trans-Agha-Mation (OPTAM) in Aghamore GAA Club, which is an eight-week community fitness initiative aimed at increasing health awareness and helping the community to become a healthier place.

Teaming up with Mayo Sports Partnership and Get Ireland Walking, The Loop Walkers in Achill GAA Club aims to include people from the wider community. It also provides a structured social outlet with a focus on inclusivity and general health and wellbeing. With 14 existing stunning loop walks in the area, currently average participation in the walks is 80 people, with adult participation of approximately 70%.

You can book up to four free places per club at the Healthy Clubs roadshow by visiting www.gaa.ie/community.