President Michael D. Higgins officially opens the Community Games 2012

President Michael D. Higgins honoured the participants and officials of HSE Community Games with his attendance at the National Finals in the Athlone Institute of Technology on Friday 25th May. Speaking at the Official Opening President Higgins said he was honoured to be invited to open the Games. He commended the hard work and dedication of all the volunteers and wished all the participants the best of luck for the upcoming games.

The Finals which were run over the weekend saw almost 2,500 children participate in a wide range of sporting and cultural activities which included Art, Model Making, Chess, Choir, Culture Corner, Draughts, Handball, Handwriting, Cross Country / Relays, Indoor Soccer, Table Tennis and Talent competitions which include dancing, singing, recitation, music and comedy sketch. Participants were supported by family members and friends who travelled from the four corners of Ireland while approximately 600 volunteers and organisers ensured that all competitions were completed in "A spirit of friendly rivalry".

Mr Gerry Davenport, President, HSE Community Games speaking at the official opening said:
"HSE Community Games provides opportunities for communities to come together through a range of sporting and cultural activities and it is now more important than ever to develop this ethos and Community spirit."

Dr Nazih Eldin, Head of Health Promotion, Dublin North East and National Lead on Obesity, HSE, said "In recent years we have witnessed an increase in obesity amongst young people. It is estimated that one in four children is either overweight or obese. Obesity is a medical condition which may lead to higher rates of Diabetes, heart and circulation problems, cancers and much more. The main contributing factors to this condition are a combination of inactivity and eating food of no nutritional value. HSE Community Games plays a hugely significant role in counteracting these phenomena"

Professor Ciaran O Cathain, President AIT in his address of welcome referred to the building of additional facilities at the college which is on-going. "When this work is completed AIT will have some of the finest sporting facilities in the country". He wished all the young participants an enjoyable and positive experience in the first HSE Community Games National Finals of 2012.

Results from the National Finals can be accessed at: www.communitygames.ie. The website will be updated regularly throughout the finals, with the results from the weekend's activities.