#rowing – The first phase of the International Rowing Facility in Lough Rinn, Co Leitrim, with an investment value of €900,000, has been completed and can now cater for rowing and canoeing enthusiasts from north Connaught, Leinster, Northern Ireland and further afield. The new facility was officially launched today by Michael Ring TD, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport with Special Responsibility for Tourism and Sport.
Speaking at the launch of the completion of the first phase Minister Ring TD, said "I'm delighted to be here to officially open the first phase of this project. This project is of considerable importance not only locally but nationally. Our aim was to create a world class facility which is a centre of excellence for the development of water sports in Ireland and we're very proud to have achieved that in the first phase of its development. The local community, visitors and indeed the athletes can now benefit from a unique shared space and enjoy all water activities including rowing, canoeing and fishing."
The facility has developed a 2,000 meter, eight lane facility which will be capable of hosting national and international events as well as acting as a training base for international teams in advance of major competitions.
The €900,000 funding for the project was provided by Leitrim Co. Co., Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport. The facility will now enable Leitrim County Council in conjunction with Carrick on Shannon Rowing Club to host teams from Ireland and abroad.
Commenting on the importance of the new rowing facility to Leitrim, Frank Curran, CEO of Leitrim County Council said, "Today's launch really is a milestone for Leitrim, the development of this facility will not only raise the profile of Leitrim in a sporting sense but will also have a considerable impact on the local economy and tourism industry. By its very location, this new facility will be extremely accessible for rowing clubs and teams from Northern Ireland, Dublin and the UK."
The centre is a 162 hectares lake which is 3,000 meters in length and ideally suited for rowing and the development project has seen the creation of an eight-Lane Albano Rowing Course and Anchorage which is multi-functional and adjustable to meet rowing standards as specified by FISA (Fédération Internationale des Sociétés d'Aviron). It is also adjustable to meet requirements of International Canoe Federation Canoe Sprint Competition Rules. In addition a launch pontoon and slipway have been developed and an amenity block building has been refurbished to cater for visitors.
Rowers and spectators who visit Leitrim in the future will be well catered for with the four star Lough Rynn Castle Estate and Gardens on the shore of the Lake itself and the vibrant towns of Mohill and Carrick on Shannon only a drive away.
