Leevale AC Club History Book Launch
Leevale AC Mark 50 Years with Book Launch: "Leevale Home of Champions"
Leevale High Performance Centre
Farranlea Road, Cork
6pm Wednesday March 30th
From the Leevale AC website: "The book is a celebration of the achievements of Leevale Athletic Club since its foundation in Cork in 1967. It describes how the club was formed at a critical time in Irish athletics with the creation of Bord Lúthchleas na hÉireann and the opening up of international competition to Irish athletes. It shows how Leevale had its roots in two existing clubs: Hilltown Athletic and Cycling Club, and Fr. Mathew Athletic Club. Both of these were closely associated with the dynamic Fr. Nessan Shaw, and he, and other key figures, ensured that the new Leevale club had a very strong start.
The publication traces the development of the club over the five decades since its foundation. It does not attempt to record every detail of club life, but rather to provide an overview of the main events, personalities and achievements over the years. It records successes at national and international level, and the high level of achievement by club athletes, coaches and officials. The book also pays tribute to the generations of volunteers who together ensured that the club environment was one that supported athletes in performing to their best ability, while enjoying their sport. Articles by Leevale Olympians, members and friends provide insights into particular aspects of club life, and reveal some fascinating stories and memories.
Leevale Athletic Club has evolved over the past 50 years, through times of huge change in both the athletic and wider worlds. Although very much a Cork city club, Leevale is unusual in that it has moved location several times, and is not identified with a particular place. It has, however, inspired a fierce loyalty and dedication that has ensured that the club has more than accomplished the aims of its founders, to compete fully at national and international level. It is hoped that this book, through both words and images, helps to capture some of the character, energy and personalities in the ever-changing life of this dynamic athletic club."
Donal Murnane, Chairman of Leevale AC, writes: "Leevale are proud to present our special 50th Anniversary, limited edition book for pre-sale.This special publication has a limited run of 650 copies. Written by acclaimed author and historian Dr. Alicia St. Leger, this is a must buy for all folllowers of athletics and Leevale.
Beautifully designed by Fran Walsh, this book is over 200 pages and is lavishly illustrated. It contains memories from Leevale Olympians, club members and friends.
The book launch will take place on Wednesday 28 March, and will be available for collection at the Leevale Shop, in the High-Performance Centre, from that date."
The book can be pre-ordered on the Leevale AC website
