Sports Ireland is set for another boost to grassroots activity, with rugby clubs being given a final opportunity to apply for Phase 3 of the Healthy Ireland IRFU Walking Tracks Initiative. The programme is designed to turn club grounds into safe, accessible spaces for exercise and community connection.
Applications must be submitted by 5pm on Friday, 16 October 2026. The deadline is strict, and applications received after that time will not be considered. The fund is open to eligible clubs in the Republic of Ireland, but clubs in Northern Ireland cannot apply.
Walking track funding aims to widen club access
Delivered in partnership with Healthy Ireland, the initiative supports rugby clubs that want to upgrade existing walking tracks or develop facilities that can be used by the wider public. Improvements may include better surfaces, stronger accessibility measures and suitable lighting.
The wider goal is to make rugby clubs more than venues for match days and training. A well-designed walking track can support daily exercise, informal social contact and healthier routines for people of different ages and abilities.
That approach reflects the broader direction of Irish sports, where clubs are increasingly being encouraged to play a central role in community wellbeing. For rugby organisations, the initiative also offers a practical way to welcome people who may never otherwise enter a club.
38 clubs have already benefited from the programme
Phases 1 and 2 have provided funding to 38 clubs across Ireland. Those projects have helped transform club grounds into more accessible spaces, supporting regular physical activity beyond traditional rugby participation.
The benefits can extend from children and parents to older residents, walking groups and people looking for a safe place to exercise close to home. Better paths and lighting can also make facilities more useful throughout the year, particularly during darker mornings and evenings.
Sligo Rugby Facilities and Infrastructure Officer Gavin Laws said the club’s walking track had brought new visitors through its gates. Parents use it while children are at training, local residents visit for daily walks, and links have been developed with groups including Active Retirement.
“This funding has allowed us to develop something that benefits far more than just our rugby playing members,” Laws said.
His comments underline the community value of the scheme. The project is not limited to improving a sports facility; it can create a shared space that supports social interaction, inclusion and everyday movement.
Who should consider applying?
Eligible rugby clubs with an existing walking track or plans to improve one should review the application requirements immediately. Clubs may wish to prepare:
- Details of the proposed walking track improvements
- Information on accessibility, safety and lighting needs
- Evidence of likely community use
- A clear outline of how the project will support physical activity
Clubs should also allow enough time to complete and submit the form before the deadline. The official application is listed as the Walking Tracks Application Form Sept 2026.
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Why community facilities matter to Sports Ireland
Walking tracks provide a simple entry point into regular exercise. They can be used without specialist equipment, membership in a particular team or a high level of sporting experience. That makes them especially valuable for families, older adults and residents who want to become more active at their own pace.
For rugby clubs, the investment can strengthen relationships with schools, community groups, local authorities and health organisations. It may also encourage new volunteers and create a stronger sense of ownership around the club grounds.
The initiative sits alongside wider efforts across Irish sport to improve access, promote participation and make facilities useful to the whole community. While rugby remains at the heart of these clubs, the walking track creates an additional pathway into an active lifestyle.
Explore more: Irish community news and local sports stories | Health, lifestyle and wellbeing features
What happens next for applying clubs?
Clubs interested in Phase 3 should submit their completed application no later than 5pm on Friday, 16 October 2026. Questions about the process can be directed to IRFU Health and Well-being Co-ordinator Meadhbh Lewis at Meadhbh.lewis@irfu.ie.
The key takeaway is straightforward: this is the final call for eligible clubs to seek support for walking track improvements. With 38 clubs already funded, the scheme is showing how rugby grounds can become welcoming, active spaces for an entire community.
Article/Image Courtesy: Irish Rugby
