12 June 2008

New Age Kurling League

People with physical and sensory disabilities from Armagh and Dungannon have been participating in a New Age Kurling League.

Service users from Willowbank Community Resource Centre, Dungannon, Station Road Resource Centre, Armagh and Moy Resource Centre took part in the league which was funded by the Community Foundation NI – Sport Relief Grant.

The league was organised through the Armagh and Dungannon Health Action Zone’s Fit 4 U Project, which aims to introduce people with physical and/or sensory disabilities to a range of new leisure and physical activities.

Rhonda Richardson, Fit 4 U Project Worker, explains “New Age Kurling is a target sport, a form of the original kurling game, but adapted so that it is played indoors, rather than on ice. It is an inclusive sport suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Equipment aids, including pusher handles and ramps assist those with physical disabilities to release the kurling stone.”

Participant Oliver Cullen says: “The New Age Kurling League has given me the chance to be involved in a team, develop co-ordination and accuracy and the competition has given me motivation and interest.”

Sport Relief aims to increase access to sport and exercise for people who face social exclusion and isolation. The Community Foundation commends the Fit 4 U Project for providing these unique sporting opportunities.

Jillian Cosgrove, Health and Wellbeing Manager for Armagh and Dungannon Health Action Zone, added: “The Sport Relief Grant adds value to the work of the Fit 4 U Project, by offering service users additional opportunities to engage in physical activity and contribute towards improvements to overall health and wellbeing.”

Fit 4 U is funded by the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, Armagh City and District Council and Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council.