As many of you are aware the Government published its “Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business” last night. This is the first indicator of when we could possibly get back to some athletics club activity. Well done to all our club members who quickly adopted the social distancing advice since club training ceased in March and let us all continue to do so. As you all know, the Taoiseach has cautioned that progress and timing of re-opening various aspects of society is dependent on controlling the numbers of Covid 19 cases and will only be done under the expert guidance of CMO, Dr. Tony Holohan, and the Covid 19 National Public Health Emergency Team.
The first exciting news from the roadmap for us is that from Tuesday 5th May the distance we can exercise from our homes has been extended from a 2km to a 5km radius. The mathematicians amongst you will work that out to be a 6.25 times bigger area to run in!
The next positive thing is that phase 2 of the plan, scheduled for June 8th, should allow small numbers to train together provided social distancing is maintained.
And finally, though not yet confirmed, it looks like the wearing of facemasks outdoors will be advised for all for the foreseeable future from May 18th. In athletics we will take the tongue in cheek positive view that this is a form of altitude training that may on the long term result in many PB’s and records set later in the year!
The Rathfarnham 5k is still planned for Sunday September 27th. If it goes ahead it could be in huge demand after a summer of no racing! The AAI will publish any necessary guidance on protocols they receive from the HSE or NPHET.
In the meantime the excitement of our club virtual racing relays, which has re-invigorated many club members, will continue over the summer.
Take care everybody and keep distancing and handwashing.