Shannon Athletics Club (AC), founded in 1969, has rich history of athletic achievements. Its legacy is built on hard work, passion, and a strong community spirit. New members are always welcome to join this storied athletic club! 🏃♀️🏃♂️
Here are some main facts about Shannon AC
Formation and Early Years:
The club was founded in 1969 by a committee of eight members. Sean Cleary was the coach, and Eddie Ryan made significant contributions. In 1970, Eddie Ryan became the club’s secretary. The community had a strong demand for athletic activities, which led to the club's rapid growth. Shannon AC grew rapidly in the 1970s, attracting a large number of young athletes from the surrounding area. Soon after, the club had a roster of 100 members, ranging from 6 to 17 years old. This made Shannon AC the dominant force in County Clare's athletics scene, with only Marion AC posing a serious challenge to their supremacy.
Historic Achievements:
Shannon AC made history by hosting the Munster Community Games, held at the GAA Club. In 1973, the club had 120 children competing in the Munster Team. Thanks to a grant from the Munster Council, Shannon AC secured funding to cover those costs. They clinched fourteen championship medals and eleven gold medals at the Munster competitions!
Training and Success:
Shannon AC was the sole club in Shannon for children to attend. Training sessions took place three nights a week at their grounds behind St. Patrick’s Comprehensive. In 1974, Tommy Lynch triumphed in the under 12’s 800 meters at the Munster Championships held in Pallas Green, Limerick. The club fostered a strong sense of community, regularly taking two full busloads of children to compete in competitions across Ireland. The club owes much of its success to the dedication of members like Josephine and Richard McMahon, who have contributed their love for athletics and unwavering commitment to its development.
Present Day:
Shannon AC was a thriving club with 60 registered children aged 7 to 17 years as of 2010, but the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted its success. The club resumed its activities in January 2024 and had a huge turnout. Over 80 kids and teenagers attended the first training session! The club has been growing in numbers and enthusiasm ever since, reaching the milestone of one hundred members within the first month of reopening!
Training now occurs at the Shannon Athletic Club Track, beside the Rugby and Camogie Grounds,
on Monday and Wednesday evenings.
Please contact us, if you have any questions or simply would like to join us!