Athlone Regatta boosted by ‘massive entry’ for annual Coosan Point event

Athlone Regatta is set to stage possibly the biggest ever renewal of its annual rowing event at Coosan Point this Saturday, June 16.

Entries for the event, organised by Athlone Boat Club, closed last week and Regatta Secretary John O'Meara was happy to report a “massive entry”, with some 486 crews registered. 

“Northern clubs have really supported the Athlone Regatta ever since its inception, and they will be out in force once again. 

“We have entries from clubs like Portadown and Newry, and we have a huge entry from Enniskillen,” John told the Westmeath Independent.

“Rowing has enjoyed a renaissance in the last number of years in the Athlone area and around the country. The success of the O'Donovan brothers has increased the popularity of the sport,” said John, adding that Athlone Boat Club will again have a large entry of rowers at its local regatta.

“In the past there was a lot of bigger boats used. Now there is more of an emphasis on smaller boats which is being driven by the Olympic Council. They probably feel a person should learn the skill of skulling first and the emphasis is now on teaching youngsters how to skull first.”

There are 60 events scheduled to take place at the various grades (from under-14 level up to Masters). Races will start at 8am and will run until approximately 8.30pm. 

It will be a long and gruelling day for those marshalling and judging at the event. Naturally all involved with the event are hoping for favourable weather, with the potential impact of strong wind actually a bigger concern than any threat of rain.

“We are praying that the wind doesn't affect the event as a lot of regattas have been cancelled this year due to strong winds. The wind has a huge bearing on smaller boats,” John said.

John is again thankful to the local community in Coosan for their support and assistance. 

“Without the cooperation of the local community, the event would be a non-runner, and we are delighted to have great facilities in Coosan Point.”

There will be plenty of rowing equipment for sale at the event and food stalls to keep hungry spectators satisfied. “For the rowing fraternity, it's a great event,” added John.

Athlone Boat Club's crews will be hoping for more success at their home regatta after they took home another impressive medal haul at the two-day Carlow regatta last weekend.