On the 5th September 1980 a group of athletics enthusiasts met at the Carraig na bhFear community centre and what followed was a momentous occasion. The group established Carraig na bhFear Athletic Club, re-instating an athletic club in the area for the first time in a number of years. This the club’s inaugural meeting saw the appointment of all key committee positions - Michael Murphy, Chairperson; Tim O’Sullivan, Vice-Chairperson; Noreen Murphy, Secretary; Teresa Murphy, Assistant Secretary; and George Holland, Treasurer.
There had always been a great athletic tradition in Carraig na bhFear and the formation of this new club was viewed as continuing this tradition. Even in these early days of the club it had a thriving juvenile section, attracting members from Carraig na bhFear itself and surrounding areas such as Glenville, Watergrasshill, Whitechurch, Rathcormac, Bartlemy, Grenagh, Bweeng, Rathpeacon, Upper Glanmire, and Ballyvolane. Members were encouraged to participate in competitions across track and field, road racing and cross country. One could argue that the club was always built on a passion for cross country and since its formation it has hosted numerous cross country championships at all levels. It is testament to the great support received from local farmers that since 1980 fifteen different venues in the locality have been used to host these championships. The club hosted the National juvenile cross country championships in 1991 and again with the junior and senior inter county cross country championships in 1999, and also the National intermediate and masters cross country championships in 2006.
At the gathering in early September 1980, the group would not have known how their efforts would lead to such a positive impact on their community. Over 42 years later, with so many lives changed, memories made, and friendships formed we remain thankful for their vision and action.