The Metals Slí na Sláinte route sets Dún Laoghaire on path to health

Walking is a fun way for people to get fit and stay fit, as part of a healthier lifestyle. That was the message from Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, the Irish Heart Foundation and the Local Sports Partnership at the launch of the Slí na Sláinte along The Metals in Dun Laoghaire on Saturday, 15th of January 2011.

 This National Walking Event, in conjunction with Operation Transformation, was a great success with 140 walkers of all ages and fitness levels braving the wintery conditions. This new Slí na Sláinte walking route, 'The Metals', was launched by An Cathaoirleach Cllr. Lettie McCarthy in County Hall, Dún Laoghaire. An Cathaoirleach said: "We were delighted to work the Irish Heart Foundation on this project, the new Slí na Sláinte route is a great addition to the town and a wonderful amenity for people in the area."

Easy to follow, the new 3km (6km return) Metals Slí na Sláinte motivates walkers who can keep track of the distance they walked, as they enjoy the surroundings of The Metals. Many people do not realise it but physical inactivity is one of the main risk factors for heart disease. At least 30 minutes of physical activity at a moderate intensity, such as brisk walking, five days a week will keep your heart strong, improve muscle strength and make you feel good.

Sharon Daly of the Irish Heart Foundation, said: "We are delighted to open the Slí na Sláinte along The Metals on this National Walking Event with the Irish Sports Council and Operation Transformation and want to thank all involved for their commitment and hard work in developing the new route.  Using a Slí na Sláinte walking route is an excellent way to engage in regular activity to maintain a healthy heart, but above all walking is fun! So our message to everyone now is... Let's Go Walking and Walk for Heart". 

For information on future walking programmes and events please contact Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Sports Partnership at 01-2719502 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Anyone seeking further info on Slí na Sláinte routes can contact Edel Byrne, Slí na Sláinte National Co-ordinator at the Irish Heart Foundation, 4 Clyde Road, Dublin 4, Tel: 01 668-5001 or e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Starting of on the 6km walk

Sharon Daly of the Irish Heart Foundation with a young participant

A few of the walkers taking a break at the 3km point

 Rob Goodbody (author of Story of The Metals) and a Community Garda on the new Sli na Slainte route