A host of leisure and fitness facilities across the country received nationwide recognition at the annual Ireland Active National Quality Standard Awards that were held virtually yesterday.
The National Quality Standard Awards have been in operation since 2001, under the previous banner of the White Flag Awards, and are the only industry-specific award for the leisure, health and fitness sector in Ireland.
They are the most sought-after and respected accolades in the industry and awards across the three levels of Outstanding (gold), Exceeded (silver) and Achieved (bronze).
This year, 74 facilities nationwide were awarded, with five facilities also awarded an ‘Overall Winner’ award in different categories, having been recognised for their high standards in safety, hygiene, customer engagement and human resources.
WIT Arena, Co Waterford was awarded the Overall Winner of the Fitness Award category, with Gymplus Ballsbridge and K Leisure Newbridge (Kildare) also recognised on the shortlist for the award.
Arena Health and Fitness Club in Dublin was awarded the Overall Winner Award for the Hotel Leisure category, with Tonic Health Club (Dublin) and Anner Hotel Leisure Centre (Tipperary) shortlisted in this category.
The Sport Ireland National Aquatic Centre (Dublin) was announced as the Overall Winner of the Leisure Award category, with Newpark School Sports Centre (Dublin) and Tallaght Leisure Centre (Dublin) shortlisted.
Expert Leisure in Dublin was awarded the Supplier of the Year award, with Aqualine (Dublin) and McSport (Dublin) shortlisted for the honour.
The Most Improved Facility Award was awarded to Sportslink (Dublin) while the Leisure Complex at Lough Lannagh (Mayo) scooped the Best Newcomer Award.
“We are delighted to be able to recognise so many fantastic facilities throughout Ireland today at our annual Ireland Active National Quality Standard Awards,” said the newly appointed CEO of Ireland Active Karl Dunne.
“Our members have faced a tough and difficult year over the past 12 months, and yet have continued to strive for excellence despite all the obstacles they have faced. We are delighted to see the fantastic work and dedication that has gone in behind the scenes, and we look forward to seeing this work showcased for all to see once facilities reopen once more.”
“What these facilities have done during an extremely difficult and trying time is really exceptional,” added Chairperson of Ireland Active, Joe Cosgrove.
“Their commitment and dedication to achieving and maintaining such high standards is truly remarkable, and we would like to congratulate all winners on their fantastic achievement.”
The awards reward excellence for facilities in the sector that meet the operational standards across 250 quality-based criteria and are endorsed by Sport Ireland. Participants include local authority, private and hotel leisure facilities, and Ireland Active provides support for the awards in the area of standards, programmes, garda vetting and training. In 2019, Ireland Active established the first industry-specific Skillnet to assist members in accessing discounted industry training.
Sport for Business Partners
