Flahavans Porridge helps young runners get set for Athletics NI Primary School league

The league, which is expected to attract over 6,000 entrants from 200+ schools based around Northern Ireland, will bring together young runners aged between 9 and 12 years old – and mark the eighth consecutive year of sponsorship by Flahavan’s Porridge.

A new format for 2018/19 will see runners compete in one of two regional rounds – each taking place over a week in October and November – followed by a final round, for runners with a qualifying time, in early 2019.

Official ambassador, Kerry, started running 800-1500m and cross-country at the age of 13 – and has represented Northern Ireland and Ireland at the highest levels of athletics. This has included: 2014 Commonwealth Games (Glasgow, Scotland), 2015 World Championships (Beijing, China), 2016 Olympics (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), 2016 European Championships (Amsterdam, Netherlands), 2017 European Indoor Championships (Belgrade, Serbia) and most recently, 2018 European Championships (Berlin, Germany).

Speaking at the launch of her new ambassador role, Kerry O’Flaherty, said:

“I am passionate about inspiring the next generation to get involved with sport from a young age. From learning how to train to the importance of a healthy and balanced the diet, the partnership between Athletics NI and Flahavan’s is a winner when it comes to developing the local sporting stars of the future.

“In the months ahead, as the Flahavan’s Ambassador, I look forward to sharing my personal training tips with the participants as we progress through the rounds. It was great to meet the Junior Squad at the launch – and I look forward to welcoming those who are new to the competition, and the sport, in the months ahead!”

Brand Marketing Manager for Flahavan’s Porridge, Aoife O’Shea, added:

“Now in our eighth year of working with Athletics NI, we look forward to continuing to build a development path for young runners through our partnership. With proven success in providing a launchpad for children to progress to professional athletes, Flahavan’s Porridge is invested in continuing this grassroots work – through both the provision of our wholesome oats and oat-based products, and through ongoing sponsorship.

“Good luck to all of the participants – crossing the starting line this year will be the beginning of a very exciting journey!”

The 2018/19 League will get under way on Friday 5^th October with children from across 6 regions taking part: Co. Down, Southern Area, Co. Antrim, North West, Causeway Coast Area and Co-Tyrone/Fermanagh Area.

For further information on the Flahavan’s Porridge Athletics NI Primary School Cross Country League, please contact the Athletics NI office on info@athleticsni.org  or 028 9060 2707.

To view Flahavan’s full range of products, please visit www.flahavans.co.uk or @FlahavansUK on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.