In good weather conditions approximately 1,000 people turned out for the Mayo Operation Transformation walks last Saturday 19th January in Belmullet, Castlebar and Westport. Over 500 alone participated in the Castlebar Lough Lannagh event which was attended by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Mayor of Castlebar Brendan Heneghan and CEO Irish Sports Council John Treacy.

In the afternoon Treacy joined Minister of State for Sport and Tourism Michael Ring and Caitheoirleach of Westport Town Council Ollie Gannon in leading approximately 350 people through the grounds of Westport House and linking up with the town Greenway. Minister Ring also launched a new iphone app which has details of more than 400 walking and cycling trails around Ireland, and will make it much easier for everyone to get out and enjoy one of the country's many recreational trails.

Not to be outdone over 100 people participated in the Belmullet 5K walk which took in some of the breathtaking scenery in the area.

All events were co-organised by Mayo Sports Partnership, Mayo Walking Partnership,Westport Leisure Park and The Erris Community Health Forum.

Photographs from all the events can be viewed on the Mayo Sports Partnership Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mayo-Sports-Partnership/282114873337?ref=hl

The organisers would like to thank all the volunteers, sponsors etc who contributed towards making all the events safe and enjoyable.

A number of follow-on programmes are available in all locations

Belmullet
Erris "Men on the Move" Programme
Now in its 2nd phase the group is now targeting new participants for its spring programme. The group meets twice weekly at the Phairc Beo in Belmullet and targets men aged 30 plus. If you are interested contact Michelle Healy at 087 7646710.

Erris "Meet and Walk"
Interested in being part of a walking group which caters for all levels and abilities. Why not join the recently formed Meet and Walk group which meets twice weekly. Contact Michelle at 087 7646710

Castlebar
Castlebar "Men on the Move" Initiative
Worried about that extra weight? Thinking about getting more active? Want to improve your overall health and wellbeing?

Mayo Sports Partnership in collaboration with HSE West, Castlebar Mens Shed and Le Cheile Family Resource Centre are offering a new programme for men aged 30+ over the coming weeks in the Castlebar area. Mid West Radio are also rowing in with the initiative and will be calling for men to participate in the 8 week programme which will culminate in a "Men on the Move" 5K walk / run at a date to be arranged. Programmes on offer include walking, jogging, cycling and there is no cost to the participant.

If you would like to join this programme contact the leader Taragh at 0876471919

Castlebar Meet and Walk Programme
Enjoy walking? Would you like to exercise more and be part of a group? Are you interested in being part of a Castlebar Meet and Walk Group? If so register your name with us today by calling Mayo Sports Partnership on 094 9047025 or email us on msp@mayococo.ie

Westport
Operation Transformation Programme
Westport Leisure Park have a community programme for the duration of the Operation Transformation TV programme. You can join walks which take place during the week and on a Saturday. These are free walks and its never too late to join. Contact Westport Leisure Park at 098 - 29160

Westport "Men on the Move" Programme
Targeting men aged 30 plus this group meets once a week and are currently recruiting new members. You can exercise at your own pace under the watchful eyes of a qualified physical activity leader. The group meet at the Westport Athletic track and activities include walking, jogging, cycling etc. To find out more contact Marian at 087 7632669

Further information on walking groups or meet / train groups throughout Mayo can be got by contacting the Mayo Sports Partnership at 094-9047025 or log on to www.mayosports.ie