Benbecula running track officially opened

On Saturday the 12th June 2010 the Running Track at Liniclate, Isle of Benbecula, will be officially opened by Beth MacLeod, who represented Scotland on 68 occassions in rugby union and Mairi Levack, who is a founder member and lynchpin of North Uist Athletics Club.

The official opening will be held before the start of the inaugural Uist and Barra Community Games.

“Jog Scotland Groups”

The project which was funded by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and sportscotland will provide a sporting facility for a whole spectrum of users and it is hoped that the facility will be well utilised.

The track can be used for walking groups, those wishing to improve their fitness and agility for other sports as well as the variety of track and field events enjoyed by many:

Councillor Archie Campbell, Chair of the Sustainable Development Committee at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar commented:

“I am delighted that the facility at Liniclate is now fully operational.  The Comhairle continue in their commitment to providing quality accessible sports facilities and the additional funding made available by sportscotland enabled the progression of this project.  I am confident that the facility will be a valuable asset within the Uist community and groups such as the vibrant North Uist Athletics Club, the Jog Scotland Groups and Comunn Spòrs a’ Chinn a Deas will made full use of it”.

“Existing football pitch”

sportscotland Chief Executive, Stewart Harris said:

“sportscotland is delighted to have worked with Comhairle Nan Eilean Siar on the development of the Liniclate running track. It is a fantastic development, in a picturesque setting, which will assist the development of athletics in the Uists. sportscotland has been able to provide technical advice and support for the project, along with an investment of £200,000.  The new facility will benefit the local community, schools and athletes by giving them the opportunity to participate or train in running, long-jump, triple-jump, shot putt, hammer and discus. The incorporated floodlights will allow all-year-round use of the track facilities as well as the existing football pitch.”

The opening will commence at 10am with refreshments being served to invitees, and following some opening words from Councillor Campbell at 11am, the track will be officially opened and Beth and Mairi will start the warm-up lap for the first Community Games.  All in attendance will receive a commemorative medal.

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