The Olympic Federation of Ireland, along with his partner forecourt retailer Circle K, has launched an initiative called “Here for Ireland”, aimed to support its athletes in the lead up to Tokyo 2020.

By scanning the company’s app, with no costs, customers will generate digital coins, which Team Ireland athletes can use in the Olympic and Paralympic preparations.

“As part of the partnership, we wanted to ensure that we positively contributed to each athlete as they strive to achieve Olympic and Paralympic glory and we believe that ‘Here for Ireland’ does just that,” Circle K senior market director Judy Glover said.

It is estimated that approximately €250,000 worth of digital coins will be generated over the course of the initiative, all of which will be shared evenly amongst Team Ireland hopefuls.

Athletes who sign up to the initiative can use the digital coins to redeem complementary miles fuel at all 410 Circle K service stations, as well as food or refreshments at any of the participating Circle K stores until the Tokyo 2020 Games.

Whilst it was only launched on 24 October, 60 Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls from around the country have already signed up to the ‘Here for Ireland’ initiative, including middle-distance runner Ciara Mageean.

“Athletes make many sacrifices – physical, emotional and financial – as they strive to achieve Olympic glory,” Mageen said. “This initiative will have a hugely positive impact on all Team Ireland athletes, as the digital coins generated by Circle K customers will fuel our journey, quite literally, to Tokyo.”

“On behalf of Team Ireland, I’d like to encourage consumers to get involved and show their support by simply scanning the Circle K app or their loyalty tag every time they shop at Circle K.”

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