In 1971 Sligo A.C was formed to promote athletics in and around the area of Sligo Town. Organised athletics had always been strong in the County, with nearby Calry Athletics Club blazing a trail from the mid-’60s. Soon the black & white of newly formed Sligo A.C appeared at local and regional meetings of track & field, road and cross country competitions. Under expert coaching, local talent flourished, and the club produced champions at regional and national levels. Athletes such as Brendan Mooney (cross country); Joe Philips (Javelin); Stephanie O’Brien (Shot Putt); Kevin Martin (High Jump);