Young athletes from across the south east region gathered at SETU’s South Sports Campus in Carlow as the Cairn Community Games Track and Field and Outdoor Field Sports Finals returned for 2026.
2026 marks the sixth year that SETU has hosted the Track and Field and Outdoor Field Sports Finals. The weekend saw more than 10,000 athletes and spectators on the 22 and 23 August.
SETU’s South Sports Campus venue was chosen by Cairn Community Games for its state-of-the-art facilities that allow for a range of athletic disciplines to be played out at the venue.
It is a pleasure to host the Cairn Community Games 2026 at SETU for another year. It’s been brilliant to witness the talent and athleticism on display from all participants. It’s heartening to see the huge community spirit on display also, as families and supporters travelled from all over Ireland to support the events.
Donal McNally Director of Sport at SETU
With SETU set to host the Community Games until 2028, Donal McNally, Director of Sport at SETU commented, “Well done to everyone involved this year, and we look forward to hosting next year’s track and field and outdoor finals again in 2027.”
Continuing, Donal said, “A key part of our strategic goals as a university is to strengthen community spirit in our region and play a role in the nurturance and development of education and skills, including in sport, among young people of the south east. I’m delighted that we could host a successful weekend of competition and continue to support Cairn Community Games in their work in the community.”
This weekend in Carlow showcased everything that makes Cairn Community Games special - young people participating, families coming together and volunteers creating lasting memories. We are delighted to continue our strong partnership with SETU and look forward to returning in 2027.
Gerry McGuinness President, Cairn Community Games
Over the weekend, the Track and Field finals got underway for under-12, under-14 and under-16 athletes as they competed in a variety of events including sprints, hurdles, relays, high jump, long jump, javelin, shot putt, ball throw and long puck.
The success of this year’s event reflected the strength of local collaboration, with Cairn Community Games, Carlow County Council, An Garda Síochána, the Carlow Community Policing Unit and SETU working in partnership throughout. Heartfelt thanks and well done to everyone involved, especially our partners, staff and volunteers, for helping to deliver such a successful event.
Donal McNally Director of Sport at SETU
For more information, visit www.cairncommunitygames.ie