VIDEO: Five-star fun
HOST ROWERS IN THE MEDALS AT ANNUAL RIVER BANN REGATTA
Video
PORTADOWN BOAT CLUB REGATTA
Published Date:
09 May 2008
By Patrick Van Dort
PORTADOWN Boat Club's annual regatta proved a major success on and off the River Bann on Saturday.
Rowers from the host outfit registered no fewer than five wins despite a 14-strong entry list.
Competitors from all over Ireland made the trip to County Armagh to support Portadown's showpiece occasion and challenge for silverware, flying the flag for Queen's University Ladies' Boat Club, Bann Rowing Club, Portora Boat Club, Neptune Rowing Club, Belfast Rowing Club, Belfast Boat Club, City of Derry Boating Club, Coleraine Academy Institution, Lady Victoria Boat Club, Lagan Scullers, Methodist College Belfast, RBAI Boat Club and University of Ulster (Coleraine).
Honours proved relatively even across the board but Portadown's final tally of five gold medals - covering the men's novice scull, men's novice quad, men's junior 16 quad, women's junior 15 quad and women's junior 16 quad - offered one obvious highlight.
ENTHUSIASM
Strong winds made life difficult at times on the water but failed to dampen enthusiasm on a date which is established as one of the most eagerly-anticipated in the sport's calendar.
"Our regatta has always been a popular fixture and the backing from other clubs offers a real boost," said Portadown Boat Club's Kevin McDonagh. "It is wonderful to renew acquaintances with old friends and also get the chance to form fresh links.
"We also owe a major shout of thanks to the regatta sponsors, especially firmus energy.
"Despite the winds, we managed to maintain the schedule and racing starting at 7.30 in the morning, although some crews arrived the previous night and were getting ready from 6 o'clock.
"We opted not to hold a lunch break and wrapped up the programme at about 7.15 after 158 races.
"The number of entries was up by around 15 per cent this year and that is another encouraging sign as to how our regatta is viewed.
"Of course, the preparation process is a demanding one but the assistance from volunteers and club members is crucial.
EXPERIENCE
"We have plenty of experience at putting on a show and that comes into play each year.
"Members of the public always turn out in force on the day and this year was no exception.
"Praise from visiting clubs and the public always helps add to the sense of achievement."
The full article contains 385 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
-
Last Updated:
09 May 2008 11:48 AM
-
Source:
n/a
-
Location:
Portadown