It has been a tough two years for the leisure sector but there was a sense of real optimism when over 100 operators gathered recently for the Ireland Active Annual Conference and Presentation of the National Quality Standard Awards.

The event took place during that window of restrictions which allowed it and the industry responded with enthusiasm.

The Conference took place at the Castleknock Hotel and had an Expo featuring sponsors and suppliers as well as guest speakers who inspired those present in areas of nutrition, management and overcoming adversity.

Hosted by Rob Hartnett of Sport for Business, Orla Walsh gave the low down on nutrition, Julie Gillespie flew in from Scotland to speak about being best in class on customer service and Paul McNieve told his inspirational story of his rise from post room to CEO of a major property company, while losing his legs in an accident along the way.

The National Quality Standard Awards (previously known as the White Flag Awards), have been in operation since 2001 and are the only industry-specific award for the Leisure, Health and Fitness sector in Ireland.

This year, 79 facilities nationwide were awarded, with five facilities also awarded an ‘Overall Winner’ award in different categories, having been recognised for their remarkable high standards in safety, hygiene, customer engagement and human resources.

K Leisure Newbridge, Co Kildare was awarded the Overall Winner of the Fitness Award category, with TUS Sport (Midlands) and WIT Arena (Waterford) also recognised on the shortlist for the award.

The Overall Winner for the Hotel Leisure Award category was Arena Health and Fitness Club in Co. Dublin, with ClannLife Fitness (Co. Meath) and Zest Health Club (Cavan), shortlisted in this category.

The Sport Ireland National Aquatic Centre (Dublin) was announced as the Overall Winner of the Leisure Award category, with Shoreline Leisure Bray (Wicklow) and Tallaght Leisure Centre (Dublin) shortlisted.

Complete Leisure (Kildare) meanwhile was awarded the Supplier of the Year award, with Aqualine (Dublin) and Expert Leisure (Dublin) shortlisted for the honour.

The Most Improved Facility Award was awarded to The Garryvoe Hotel (Cork) while InvincABLE Fitness (Waterford) received the Best Newcomer Award.

Avril Moran (K Leisure) was recognised as the Staff Person of the Year, with Trish O’Reilly (Waterford Warriors) and Siobhan Tighe (Coral Leisure) also shortlisted for this award.

TJ Reid Health and Fitness in Kilkenny and Andy Moran’s Movement Gym in Castlebar were also among those to gain recognition on the day.

“We were delighted to be able to recognise so many fantastic facilities throughout Ireland,” said Ireland Active CEO Karl Dunne. “Our members have faced a tough and difficult year, and yet have continued to strive for the highest of standards despite all the obstacles they have faced. We are delighted to see the excellent work and dedication that has gone in behind the scenes.”

“What these facilities have done during an extremely difficult and trying time is really inspirational,” added Chair Joe Cosgrove.

“Their commitment and dedication to achieving and maintaining such high standards is truly remarkable, and we would like to give a very big congratulations to all the winners on their fantastic achievement.”

Sport for Business Perspective

It was great to be able to share the enjoyment of the awards with real people in a real life setting.
A reminder of how things were and a positive signpost to how they will be again.

 

“A powerful and influential network of information and collaboration”

 

Download our latest membership brochure here.

Sport for Business Partners