By Sean Moriarty

Several sports clubs in the Killarney region will receive nearly €150,000 in funding under the Sports Capital Equipment Grants scheme.

A total €637,357 in Sports Capital Equipment Grants was announced for Kerry by Minister Catherine Martin, and Minister of State, Jack Chambers, earlier this week.

Of that figure, a total of €140,500 was given to sports organisations in the Killarney district.

“Supporting sports teams, clubs and organisations is also tantamount to supporting community engagement and helps to foster strong community spirit. Investment in sport is also a really worthwhile policy objective for Government from a health point of view. Society reaps the rewards through improved health of the population,” local TD Brendan Griffin said.

St Bridget's Basketball Club was the biggest winner locally. The Currow-based club will receive €23,465 for new training and storage equipment.

Other basketball clubs to benefit from funding are St Paul's Basketball Club who are set to receive €11,663, and Team Cougars which is in line for €4,101.

St Agatha’s GAA Club in Glenflesk will get €23,585 to be put towards new equipment.

Killarney Valley Athletic Club, operator of the new Killarney Micro Track, will receive €16,343 for the purchase of equipment.

Flesk Valley Rowing Club will receive €17,062 for safety equipment and a new engine for a safety boat, while Deerpark Pitch and Putt Club will pocket €12,129 to be put towards new grass cutting equipment.

Two cycling clubs in the region will benefit too.

Killarney Cycling Club will receive €18,466 for safety training while Sliabh Luachra Cycling Club will get €13,686 to be put towards a Cyclocross initiative.