Funding boost for CIT arena

CIT will be racing in to the future thanks to funding boost to the tune of €9.22million.

The college and Athletics Ireland made a joint application to the Large Scale Sports Infrastructural Fund to support the development of a new indoor community and high performance sports facility at the Bishopstown campus.

The large indoor athletics facility will complement the development of the new CIT arena with the addition of indoor sprints, pole vault and jumps and associated facilities. The complete development will include a two-storey multi-purpose sports arena, located near the existing outdoor athletics track, and will consist of eight courts, fitness studios, a health and fitness facility, along with dressing rooms, seminar and social facilities.

Dr Barry O’Connor, President of CIT, said: “We are delighted to announce this development which will be a massive boost for not only athletics, but all sport in Cork, the surrounding community, and across Munster generally. We look forward to working with Athletics Ireland in ensuring this facility will help to inspire future generations of athletes for many years to come.”

Hamish Adams, Athletics Ireland CEO, added: “This investment by Government will deliver huge benefits for the sporting community in the southern region. The exciting plans we have for this facility in conjunction with CIT will create opportunities for all.”