Ray D'Arcy jogs out with pupils from St Ursula's Primary School in Waterford
Ray D'Arcy jogs with students from St. Ursula's Primary School to promote the Daily Mile Programme. All Photos: Joe Evans
Ray D'Arcy's visit to St Ursula's Primary School on Ballytruckle Road was a morning of pure delight and high energy for the pupils ahead of their summer holidays.
The students joined the popular RTÉ radio show host for The Daily Mile challenge, which involves giving 15 minutes a day to walk or run, an initiative promoted across primary schools by Athletics Ireland.
Before setting out on The Daily Mile, Ray D'Arcy addressed the principal, teachers and pupils with some encouraging words.
"The Daily Mile is simple to do and it keeps you on the path to fitness that can be a lifetime healthy activity, " Ray said.
"It's a joy for me to visit St Ursula's and to hear from your principal, Caitriona Daly, about some great news for the school in recent times, including the success of 6th class student Holly Swift who won the All-Ireland final of Eason's Spelling Bee - an achievement that included an award of €7,500 worth of books for the school, and the success of the 13s Camogie team that won the Waterford county final."
St Ursula's school principal, Ms Daly, and her staff were delighted that the school was chosen for the visit by Ray D'Arcy.
"Ray's visit brought great excitement to the school and he has a great connection with the children," Ms Daly said.
"School visits like this are inspiring and uplifting for both teachers and the children.
"We encourage the girls to stay active through a number of programs and The Daily Mile has been one of those that the children love to participate in.
Frank Greally, Athletics Ireland Ambassador for The Daily Mile, paid tribute to the welcome St Ursula's gave to Ray.
"Ray got a great reception at St Ursula's and the school was a great choice for us to showcase The Daily Mile," Mr Greally said.
"What makes The Daily Mile attractive for children is that it has consistency and continuity - a little a lot, rather than - a lot a little. It's 15 minutes a day - walk or run, and it is non competitive - children complete it at their own pace.
"It was a pleasure to visit this very progressive school."
The Daily Mile, promoted by Athletics Ireland, has now 1,400 primary schools registered. For more information check out thedailymile.ie
