What is the Naval Service?

The Naval Service is the Irish State's principal seagoing agency with "a general responsibility to meet contingent and actual maritime defence requirements". It is tasked with a variety of defence and other roles.

Where is the Naval Service based?

The Naval Service is based in Ringaskiddy, Cork harbour, with headquarters in the Defence Forces headquarters in Dublin.

What does the Naval Service do?

The Naval Service provides the maritime component of the Irish State's defence capabilities and is the State's principal seagoing agency. It "protects Ireland's interests at and from the sea, including lines of communication, fisheries and offshore resources" within the Irish exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Naval Service operates jointly with the Army and Air Corps as part of the Irish defence forces.

When was the Naval Service formed?

The Naval Service was established in 1946, replacing the Marine and Coastwatching Service set up in 1939. It had replaced the Coastal and Marine Service, the State's first marine service after independence, which was disbanded after a year. Its only ship was the Muirchú, formerly the British armed steam yacht Helga, which had been used by the Royal Navy to shell Dublin during the 1916 Rising. In 1938, Britain handed over the three "treaty" ports of Cork harbour, Bere haven and Lough Swilly.

How many ships are in the Naval Service?

The Naval Service has nine ships - one Helicopter Patrol Vessel (HPV), three Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV), two Large Patrol Vessel (LPV) and two Coastal Patrol Vessels (CPV). Each vessel is equipped with State of the art machinery, weapons, communications and navigation systems.

What are the Irish Navy ship's names?

The ships' names are prefaced with the title of Irish ship or "long Éireannach" (LE). The older ships bear Irish female names - LÉ Eithne, LÉ Orla, LÉ Ciara, LÉ Roisín, and LÉ Niamh. The newer ships, named after male Irish literary figures, are LÉ Samuel Beckett, LÉ James Joyce, LÉ William Butler Yeats and LÉ George Bernard Shaw.

Are Irish Naval Service ships armed?

Yes. The 76mm Oto Melara medium calibre naval armament is the most powerful weapon in the Naval Services arsenal. The 76mm is "capable of engaging naval targets at a range of up to 17km with a high level of precision, ensuring that the Naval Service can maintain a range advantage over all close-range naval armaments and man-portable weapon systems", according to the Defence Forces.

How is the fleet managed and maintained?

The Fleet Operational Readiness Standards and Training (FORST) unit is responsible for the coordination of the fleet needs. Ships are maintained at the Mechanical Engineering and Naval Dockyard Unit at Ringaskiddy, Cork harbour.

Who is the head of the Irish Naval Service?

The Flag Officer Commanding Naval Service (FOCNS) is Commodore Michael Malone. The head of the Defence Forces is a former Naval Service flag officer, now Vice-Admiral Mark Mellett – appointed in 2015 and the first Naval Service flag officer to hold this senior position. The Flag Officer oversees Naval Operations Command, which is tasked with the conduct of all operations afloat and ashore by the Naval Service including the operations of Naval Service ships. The Naval Operations Command is split into different sections, including Operations HQ and Intelligence and Fishery Section.

What is the Intelligence and Fishery Section of the Irish Naval Service?

The Intelligence and Fishery Section is responsible for Naval Intelligence, the Specialist Navigation centre, the Fishery Protection supervisory and information centre, and the Naval Computer Centre. The Naval Intelligence Cell is responsible for the collection, collation and dissemination of naval intelligence. The Navigation Cell is the naval centre for navigational expertise.

What is the Fishery Monitoring Centre?

The Fishery Monitoring Centre provides for fishery data collection, collation, analysis and dissemination to the Naval Service and client agencies, including the State's Sea Fisheries Protection Agency. The centre also supervises fishery efforts in the Irish EEZ and provides data for the enhanced effectiveness of fishery protection operations, as part of the EU Common Fisheries Policy. The Naval Computer Centre provides information technology (IT) support service to the Naval Service ashore and afloat.

How are shore operations managed?

This headquarters includes specific responsibility for the Executive/Operations Branch duties. The Naval Service Operations Room is a coordination centre for all NS current Operations. The Naval Service Reserve Staff Officer is responsible for the supervision, regulation and training of the reserve. The Diving section is responsible for all aspects of Naval diving and the provision of a diving service to the Naval Service and client agencies. The Ops Security Section is responsible for the coordination of base security and the coordination of all shore-based security parties operating away from the Naval base. The Naval Base Comcen is responsible for the running of a communications service. Boat transport is under the control of Harbour Master Naval Base, who is responsible for the supervision of berthage at the Naval Base and the provision of a boat service, including the civilian manned ferry service from Haulbowline.

Does the Naval Service undertake overseas missions?

Naval Service ships have undertaken trade and supply missions abroad, and personnel have served as peacekeepers with the United Nations. In 2015, Naval Service ships were sent on rotation to rescue migrants in the Mediterranean as part of a bi-lateral arrangement with Italy, known as Operation Pontus. Naval Service and Army medical staff rescued some 18,000 migrants, either pulling people from the sea or taking them off small boats, which were often close to capsizing having been towed into open water and abandoned by smugglers. Irish ships then became deployed as part of EU operations in the Mediterranean, but this ended in March 2019 amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment in the EU.

How can I join the Irish Naval Service?

Essentially, you have to be Irish, young (less than 32), in good physical and mental health and with normal vision. You must be above 5'2″, and your weight should be in keeping with your age.

Are there women in the Naval Service?

Yes, women have been recruited since 1995. One of the first two female cadets, Roberta O'Brien from the Glen of Aherlow in Co Tipperary, became its first female commander in September 2020. Sub Lieutenant Tahlia Britton from Donegal also became the first female diver in the navy's history in the summer of 2020.

What is a Naval Service Officer cadet?

A naval cadet enlists for a cadetship to become an officer in the Defence Forces. After successfully completing training at the Naval Service College, a cadet is commissioned into the officer ranks of the Naval Service as a Ensign or Sub Lieutenant.

What training is involved in becoming a Naval Service officer cadet?

A cadet trains for approximately two years duration divided into different stages. The first year is spent in military training at the Naval Base in Haulbowline, Cork. The second-year follows a course set by the National Maritime College of Ireland course. At the end of the second year and on completion of exams, and a sea term, the cadets will be qualified for the award of a commission in the Permanent Defence Force as Ensign.

What qualifications are required to become a cadet?

A cadet trains for approximately two years duration divided into different stages. The first year is spent in military training at the Naval Base in Haulbowline, Cork. The second-year follows a course set by the National Maritime College of Ireland course. At the end of the second year and on completion of exams, and a sea term, the cadets will be qualified for the award of a commission in the Permanent Defence Force as Ensign. The Defence Forces say it is looking for people who have "the ability to plan, prioritise and organise", to "carefully analyse problems, in order to generate appropriate solutions, who have "clear, concise and effective communication skills", and the ability to "motivate others and work with a team". More information is on the 2020 Qualifications Information Leaflet.

When can I apply to become a Naval Service cadet?

When you are 18 years of age or over and under 26 years of age on the date mentioned in the notice for the current competition, the officer cadet competition is held annually and is the only way for potential candidates to join the Defence Forces to become a Naval Service officer. Candidates undergo psychometric and fitness testing, an interview and a medical exam.

Where is the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI)?

The NMCI was built beside the Naval Service base at Ringaskiddy, Co Cork, and was the first third-level college in Ireland to be built under the Government's Public-Private Partnership scheme. The public partners are the Naval Service and Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) and the private partner is Focus Education.

What is a Naval Service recruit?

A Naval Service recruit enlists for general service in the "Other Ranks" of the Defence Forces. After successfully completing the initial recruit training course, a recruit passes out as an Ordinary Seaman and will then go onto their branch training course before becoming qualified as an Able Body sailor in the Naval Service.

What qualifications are required to become a Naval Service recruit?

No formal education qualifications are required to join the Defence Forces as a recruit. You need to satisfy the interview board and the recruiting officer that you possess a sufficient standard of education for service in the Defence Forces.

What training is involved in becoming a Naval Service recruit?

Recruit training is 18 weeks in duration and is designed to "develop a physically fit, disciplined and motivated person using basic military and naval skills" to "prepare them for further training in the service. Recruits are instilled with the Naval Service ethos and the values of "courage, respect, integrity and loyalty".

What is a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) career training?

On the progression up through the various ranks, an Able Rate will have to complete a number of career courses to provide them with training to develop their skills in a number of areas, such as leadership and management, administration and naval/military skills. The first of these courses is the Naval Service Potential NCO course, followed by the Naval Service Standard NCO course and the Naval Service senior NCO course. This course qualifies successful candidates of Petty officer (or Senior Petty Officer) rank to fill the rank of Chief Petty Officer upwards. The successful candidate may also complete and graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership, Management and Naval Studies in partnership with Cork Institute of Technology.

What is pay like in the Naval Service?

Pay has long been an issue for just the Naval Service, at just over 1,000 personnel. Cadets and recruits are required to join the single public service pension scheme, which is a defined benefit scheme, based on career-average earnings. For current rates of pay, see the Department of Defence website

canoeing

15th October 2011

When a Novice Paddler Takes On the Liffey Descent

The Irish Times' Conor Pope jumped in at the deep end when he took part in his first Liffey Descent last weekend (VIDEO BELOW).

The first-time canoeist faced his many fears to tackle the challenging course from the K Club in Kildare to Islandbridge as part of a three-man Canadian canoe.

http://www.afloat.ie/watersport/canoeing/

That is, provided they got past the first weir at Straffan, where 60% of competitors take a tumble.

Pope writes: "As we approach its edge, the foaming white water’s roar barely manages to drown out the roars of hundreds of paddlers who’ve already succumbed to its fury."

Surviving that, the trio ploughed through the wodded stretch known as 'the jungle' before avoiding a smash into the wall at Leixlip dam.

From then on in the water flows faster towards the Wren's Nest, and the stuff of nightmares for the novist paddler!

Read more about Conor Pope's adventures on the Liffey Descent HERE.

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/features/2011/1010/1224305516068.html

The Irish Times' Conor Pope jumped in at the deep end when he took part in his first Liffey Descent last weekend (VIDEO BELOW).

The first-time canoeist faced his many fears to tackle the challenging course from the K Club in Kildare to Islandbridge as part of a three-man Canadian canoe.

That is, provided they got past the first weir at Straffan, where 60% of competitors take a tumble.

Pope writes: "As we approach its edge, the foaming white water’s roar barely manages to drown out the roars of hundreds of paddlers who’ve already succumbed to its fury."

Surviving that, the trio ploughed through the wodded stretch known as 'the jungle' before avoiding a smash into the wall at Leixlip dam.

From then on in the water flows faster towards the Wren's Nest, and the stuff of nightmares for the novist paddler!

Read more about Conor Pope's adventures on the Liffey Descent HERE.

Published in Canoeing

Tagged under

8th October 2011

Fleming and Egan Fastest in Liffey Descent Canoeing Race (With RESULTS)

Neil Fleming and Peter Egan in K2 (racing kayak) were the fastest crews in the Liffey Descent today, covering the course in a fast one hour 49 minutes and 10 seconds. John Boyton and Graham O’Regan were almost six minutes behind them in second.

Liffey Descent Results

Class Place   Time   BIB   First   Surname      Club   Class
1   02:04:44   43   Sean   McCarthy      Salmon Leap   JUNIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
2   02:14:20   51   Matthew   Burke      Salmon Leap   JUNIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
3   02:18:43   48   Iomhar   MacGiollaPhadraig      Salmon Leap   JUNIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
4   02:19:51   42   Anthony   Forristal      Thomastown   JUNIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
5   02:35:21   44   Gerald   O'Halloran      WWKC   JUNIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
6   03:07:27   47   Ryan   Brady      Slalom leap Canoe Club   JUNIOR RACING KAYAK - K1

1   02:08:21   581   George   Barnicoat      Longridge   JUNIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:08:21   581   James   Allen      Longridge   JUNIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
2   02:49:33   584   Donal   Devenney      Salmon Leap CC   JUNIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:49:33   584   Caoimhin   Croc      Salmon Leap CC   JUNIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2

1   02:18:28   81   Aisling   Smith      WWKC   JUNIOR WILD WATER RACERS
2   02:32:53   85   Grimes   Daniel         JUNIOR WILD WATER RACERS
3   02:40:53   84   Brian   McGuinness      Salmon Leap   JUNIOR WILD WATER RACERS
4   02:46:52   82   Conor   Quinn      wwkc   JUNIOR WILD WATER RACERS
5   03:10:47   83   Eadaoin   Whelan      WWKC   JUNIOR WILD WATER RACERS

1   04:23:07   523   Niall   Killeen      Mulligar Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK TRIPLES - K3
04:23:07   523   David   Corcoran      Mulligar Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK TRIPLES - K3
04:23:07   523   Pat   Clifford      Mulligar Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK TRIPLES - K3

1   02:29:19   138   John   Keegan      ICU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
2   02:29:49   160   Eamonn   O'Callanain      ICU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
3   02:30:43   180   Kieran   Varley      Thomastown   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
4   02:31:38   105   Edward   Broekaart      Donegal Canoe Club   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
5   02:36:35   153   John   Mollohan      Citywise   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
6   02:42:28   109   Brendan   Buggy      Celbridge   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
7   02:42:39   173   Gerard   Ryan      Salmon Leap   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
8   02:48:14   104   Malcolm   Blowers      BRITISH CU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
9   02:49:22   103   Ivan   Barrett      Malahide Sea Scouts   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
10   02:50:03   148   David   Leonard      Donegal Canoe Club   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
11   02:55:00   169   Richard   Reid      ICU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
12   02:55:52   166   Donal   O'Mathuna      Dromore   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
13   02:56:41   188   Catriona   Woods      Lisburn City Paddlers   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
14   02:57:16   134   Cathal   Herron      Donegal Canoe Club   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
15   02:59:29   112   Denis   Conlan      Kilcullen Canoe Club   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
16   03:00:45   151   Roy   McConnell      BCU/CANI   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
17   03:01:46   186   Norman   Woods      CCKA   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
18   03:02:10   191   John   Dooley      Killkenny Aqua Canoe Club   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
19   03:03:26   133   Patrick   Hannon      ICU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
20   03:04:02   193   Tom   Shortt      ICU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
21   03:05:19   165   James   O'Keeffe      Voyagers CC   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
22   03:05:46   106   Alan   Brook      BRITISH CU (CANI)   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
23   03:07:03   149   Andrew   Lindsay      ICU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
24   03:08:41   120   Peter   Durnin      Rockhoppers   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
25   03:08:56   167   Seamus   O'Drisceoil      Espori/Cape Clear   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
26   03:14:34   171   Frank   Roche      Donegal Canoe Club   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
27   03:14:51   194   Paul   Heffernan      Phoenix Kayak Club   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
28   03:15:42   156   Eamon   Moran      Kilcullen   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
29   03:15:46   168   Finbar   Rafferty      DUCC   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
30   03:18:04   163   Donal   O'Kane      DUKC   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
31   03:21:07   142   Lorcan   Keyes      32nd Limerick Scouts   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
32   03:22:12   136   Peter   Hickey      ICU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
33   03:22:14   130   Paul   Gurhy      Voyagers CC   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
34   03:22:52   176   david   Steele      icu   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
35   03:25:19   126   David   Gill      British CU /NI   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
36   03:27:51   155   Ian   Moore      BRITISH CU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
37   03:28:35   182   Malcolm   Vincent      Belfast   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
38   03:29:32   123   Padraig   Flynn      ICU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
39   03:34:14   152   Paul   McGovern      Celbridge Paddlers   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
40   03:34:16   137   Gerry   Keane      Celbridge Paddlers   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
41   03:37:59   129   Eugene   Gracey      BCU/CANI   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
42   03:38:05   132   Rick   Hanna      Lisburn City Paddlers   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
43   03:38:23   177   Derek   Stephenson      BCU/CANI   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
44   03:47:19   179   Carthy   Brian         MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
45   03:49:04   115   John   Daly      ICU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
46   03:50:50   121   Michael   Fahy      TDU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
47   03:51:11   118   Fergus   Doyle      Tullow Kayak Club   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
48   03:52:54   197   Sammon   Martin         MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
49   03:54:28   145   Paul   Laing      BCU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
50   03:55:06   175   Stefan   Schuller      BRITISH CU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
51   03:59:37   150   Paul   Maguire      Silverbridge   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
52   04:02:59   178   Kevin   Tuffy      Foyle   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
53   04:11:40   117   Patrick   Dougan      BCU/CANI   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
54   04:25:11   189   Geoff   Baird      Ravanet Paddlers   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
55   04:25:59   116   Anne   Donnell      Donegal Canoe Club   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
56   04:25:59   114   Kevin   Cooney      Kilcullen   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
57   04:28:11   187   gerry   woods      Goya Gang   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
58   04:33:28   143   Neal   Labuschagne      Voyagers   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
59   04:38:44   113   Kevin   Conway      ICU   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
60   04:40:39   185   Anthony   Viney      Erne   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
61   04:42:57   198   Kehely   Con         MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
62   04:51:18   159   Sean   Nolan      Sligo   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE
63   04:53:36   119   Stephen   Dunne      Mullingar   MASTERS GENERAL PURPOSE

1   01:58:56   213   Deaglan   O'Drisceoil      SLCC   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
2   02:02:40   202   James   Butler      Nottingham KC   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
3   02:07:42   203   Fergus   Cooper      Celbridge CONTRAST*   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
4   02:34:17   220   Gary   Carter      Lincoln   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
5   02:35:34   212   Noel   O'Connell      Kilcullen   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
6   02:45:48   206   Paul   Murphy      Kilkenny Aqua Canoe Club   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
7   02:48:16   205   Iain   Maclean      ICU   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
8   02:48:48   224   Peter   Hutchison      Richmond Canoe Club   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
9   02:50:45   219   Vincent   Martin      WWKC   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
10   02:59:20   223   Anthony   Pantling      Hempstead   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
11   03:20:56   952   Liam   Keogh      Kilcullen   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1
12   03:51:17   221   Archie   Miles      Lincoln   MASTERS RACING KAYAK - K1

1   02:10:35   557   Richard   Oliver      Lincoln   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:10:35   557   Andrew   Grimwood      Lincoln   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
2   02:10:43   555   Lawrence   Buckley      ICU   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:10:43   555   Ciaran   Cooke      ICU   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
3   02:14:37   552   Adrian   Trickett      Worcester   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:14:37   552   Jon   Bird      Worcester   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
4   02:19:20   553   Brian   Gallagher      Salmon Leap   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:19:20   553   Gerry   Collins      Salmon Leap   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
5   02:19:44   559   John   Keernan      WWKC   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:19:44   559   Tony   Dillon      WWKC   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
6   02:22:52   560   James   Treewood         MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:22:52   560   Anita   Seaford         MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
7   02:24:28   554   Robert   Stuart      Scottish   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:24:28   554   Martin   Kelly      Scottish   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
8   02:37:12   551   Paddy   Gowen      Donabate Sea Scouts   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:37:12   551   Brian   Nolan      Donabate Sea Scouts   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
9   02:45:14   556   Sim   Treacy      ICU   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:45:14   556   PJ   Whealan      ICU   MASTERS RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2

1   02:33:23   2   Alex   Broderick      Thomastown   MENS JUNIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
2   02:45:28   3   Kevin   Cahill      Phoenix   MENS JUNIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
3   02:45:59   19   Doolan   Gareth         MENS JUNIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
4   03:02:13   15   Shane   Nugent      Mullingar   MENS JUNIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
5   03:11:31   6   Ross   Fowler      Celbridge PCC   MENS JUNIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
6   03:13:17   16   Alan   O'Donovan      Inny Kayakers   MENS JUNIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
7   03:46:01   14   Ben   McNeilly      Lacken   MENS JUNIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
8   04:11:41   9   Eddy   Fox      Intercity Paddlers   MENS JUNIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
9   04:36:32   5   Dean   Donnelly      Ballyfermot   MENS JUNIOR GENERAL PURPOSE

10   02:21:53   334   Paul   Forristal      Thomastown   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
11   02:32:31   420   Martyn   Walsh      Thomastown   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
12   02:33:44   302   Alan   Barrett      Malahide Sea Scouts   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
13   02:37:35   396   Patrick   Woods      ICU   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
14   02:38:35   374   Mark   Redmond      WWKC   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
15   02:40:46   345   Paraic   Keane      Celbridge Paddlers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
16   02:44:26   342   Ken   Hynes      DCUCC   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
17   02:48:28   406   John   Kearney      Barrow Valley Canoe Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
18   02:51:36   324   Michael   Coughlan      UCC CC   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
19   02:51:39   368   Louis   O'Carroll      WWKC   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
20   02:53:42   404   Dermot   Morley      Ribbontail Paddlers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
21   02:56:23   344   Gerard   Keane      Trinity   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
22   02:57:57   336   Lee   Harding      TDU   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
23   03:01:52   362   Richard   Murphy      Cavan   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
24   03:03:03   423   Cerrigan   Denis         MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
25   03:04:22   348   Patrick   King      ICU   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
26   03:05:13   301   Richard   Allan      WWKC   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
27   03:05:34   386   Brian   Staunton      Mullingar Canoe Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
28   03:06:46   313   Stephen   Burke      Moy Canoe Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
29   03:07:22   395   Gavin   Whitehead      Thomastown   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
30   03:11:29   333   Gerard   Fitzpatrick      n/a   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
31   03:12:10   382   Niall   Scannell      Rockhoppers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
32   03:13:27   350   Conor   Lehane      Phoenix   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
33   03:14:45   338   Liam   Hendrick      Ribbontail   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
34   03:15:10   418   Paul   Flynn      ICU   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
35   03:15:11   414   Carl   O'Grady      Scouts   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
36   03:15:45   310   Patrick   Brereton      Kilcullen Canoe Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
37   03:17:21   425   Mulligan   Niall         MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
38   03:18:12   379   Cormac   Roche      Dromore Watersports   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
39   03:20:21   373   Pat   Power      Lir   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
40   03:21:59   370   Barry   O'Sullivan      ICU   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
41   03:22:25   365   Lar   O'Brien      Kilcullen   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
42   03:22:37   358   Ruaridh   McGuckin      Shackleton   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
43   03:26:55   369   Don   O'Hanlon      Phoenix   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
44   03:28:26   378   Eamonn   Riggs      Silverbridge   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
45   03:29:51   304   Alan   Beere      Trim Canoe Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
46   03:30:02   372   Trevor   O'Toole      Trim Canoe Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
47   03:30:06   351   Fergus   Maughan      Kilcullen   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
48   03:30:28   380   Sean   Ryan      Lir   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
49   03:31:26   306   John   Bewley      Silverbridge   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
50   03:33:54   388   Stewart   Stobbs      Chester   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
51   03:34:50   328   Damien   Donegan      Celbridge   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
52   03:35:31   352   Rory   McCauley      Strabane   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
53   03:36:44   329   Niall   Doran      Strabane   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
54   03:37:01   403   Barry   McDermott      Lisburn City Paddlers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
55   03:38:03   411   Gavin   Twomey      Phoenix   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
56   03:38:17   416   Kevin   Kirrane      Rockhoppers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
57   03:38:57   392   Gareth   Toolan      UCD   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
58   03:39:25   307   Kevin   Bonnie      Shackleton   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
59   03:44:49   195   Alan   McNeilly      Lacken   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
60   03:45:48   315   Philip   Byrne      TDU   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
61   03:46:46   422   Gullifoyle   Eoin         MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
62   03:50:49   323   Chris   Corr      Castlebar K C   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
63   03:54:13   355   Peter   McDonnell      Silverbridge   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
64   03:56:41   426   Glass   Darren         MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
65   03:56:46   413   Dale   Rothwell      Tullow Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
66   03:56:48   361   Alan   Moody      Tullow Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
67   03:58:28   337   Ryan   Hawes      Shackleton   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
68   03:59:25   303   Graeme   Barrett      Shackleton   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
69   03:59:43   321   Jasper   Chisnall      Shackleton   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
70   04:01:14   326   Tommy   Daly      Rockhoppers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
71   04:01:15   424   Doherty   Geoffrey         MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
72   04:08:39   427   GallAGHER   Conor         MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
73   04:08:53   407   Tim   Mason      Sandycove Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
74   04:09:07   419   Adrian   Guinan      ICU   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
75   04:10:33   311   Val   Browne         MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
76   04:10:45   394   Colm   Tuohy      Galway Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
77   04:10:57   309   Ronan   Breathnach      Galway Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
78   04:11:16   385   Burkhard   Springer      Galway Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
79   04:11:36   383   Christopher   Smyth      Intercity Paddlers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
80   04:11:38   356   David   McGinty      Intercity Paddlers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
81   04:12:46   428   Byrne   John         MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
82   04:14:25   387   Alan   Stevens      n/a   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
83   04:16:20   409   Colum   Power      ICU   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
84   04:16:20   408   Rick   O'Mahony      ICU   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
85   04:20:07   397   Sean   O'Sullivan      Phoenix Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
86   04:20:40   346   Sean   Kelleher      Kilcullen Canoe Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
87   04:21:06   322   Richard   Coady      Limerick Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
88   04:21:08   366   Sean   O'Brien      Limerick Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
89   04:25:08   400   Stewart   Bettle      Ravanet Paddlers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
90   04:25:10   398   Geoff Jr.   Baird      Ravanet Paddlers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
91   04:25:11   399   Chris   Baird      Ravanet Paddlers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
92   04:25:14   401   Graham   Bettle      Ravanet Paddlers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
93   04:27:12   410   Darragh   Burke      Phoenix   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
94   04:36:32   391   Glyn   Thomas      Inny Kayakers   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
95   04:40:46   393   Joe   Tottenham      CANI   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
96   04:42:57   318   Karl   Byrne      Sligo Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
97   04:42:59   354   Ailbe   McCormack      ICU   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE
98   04:43:13   320   Peter   Casey      n/a   MENS SENIOR GENERAL PURPOSE

1   01:58:24   257   Gary   Mawer      Salmon Leap   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
2   02:00:39   255   Dermot   Hudson      Salmon Leap   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
3   02:10:54   265   Stuart   West      Worcester   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
4   02:20:03   256   David   Maritz      Richmond   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
5   02:20:28   252   Graham   Champ      Salmon Leap   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
6   02:21:17   259   Dave   Pedlar      Worcester   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
7   02:29:49   955   Declan   Halton      Salmon Leap   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
8   02:31:42   260   David   Smith      BCU   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
9   02:32:09   251   Steven   Bullivant      Lincoln   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
10   02:36:14   269   Keith   Longney      Brit Quadrathlon   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
11   03:14:22   253   Ruairi   De Hal      Dundalk Kayak Club   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1
12   03:16:38   261   Peter   Tallon      WWKC   MENS SENIOR RACING KAYAK - K1

1   01:49:10   511   Neil   Fleming      Celbridge   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
01:49:10   511   Peter   Egan      Celbridge   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
2   01:55:03   525   Boyton   John         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
01:55:03   525   Graham   O'Regan         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
3   01:57:19   501   Brett   Irvine      Richmond   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
01:57:19   501   Kenlea   Murray      Richmond   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
4   01:57:25   512   Grant   Anderson      Nottingham   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
01:57:25   512   Tim   Lawrenson      Nottingham   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
5   01:57:49   503   Jason   Briory      SLCC   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
01:57:49   503   Malcolm   Banks      SLCC   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
6   01:59:18   527   Martin   Burke         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
01:59:18   527   Simon   Van Lonkhuyzen         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
7   02:00:16   518   Tim   Morrissey      Dollymount Sea Scouts   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:00:16   518   Jim   Morrissey      Kayakmor   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
8   02:00:44   514   Liam   McCarthy      Salmon Leap   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:00:44   514   Pedro   Lopez      Salmon Leap   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
9   02:01:27   505   James   King      Richmond   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:01:27   505   Richard   Hendron      Richmond   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
10   02:03:31   529   James   Smith         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:03:31   529   Paul   Moroney         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
11   02:04:01   530   Dave   Frances         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:04:01   530   Dermot   Stack         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
12   02:05:14   521   Thomas   Daniels      Reading   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:05:14   521   Daniel   Seaford      Reading   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
13   02:05:55   507   David   Oliver      Lincoln Canoe Club   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:05:55   507   David   Matthew      Lincoln Canoe Club   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
14   02:07:52   519   Edward   Rutherford      Elmbridge   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:07:52   519   Edward   Cox      Elmbridge   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
15   02:10:14   517   Aisa   Cooper      Celbridge Paddlers Cnaoe Club   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:10:14   517   David   Pringle      Celbridge Paddlers Cnaoe Club   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
16   02:10:27   508   Mike   Rees-Clark      Richmond   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:10:27   508   Michael   Lavarack      Richmond   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
17   02:13:52   510   James   Clarke      Moy Canoe Club   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:13:52   510   Jim   Meascal      Moy Canoe Club   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
18   02:15:21   524   Martin   Hearns      Celbridge Paddlers   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:15:21   524   Caoimhe   Ni Chuinn      Celbridge Paddlers   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
19   02:18:59   502   Michael   Wright      Falcon Oxford   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:18:59   502   Sam   Jones      Falcon Oxford   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
20   02:20:52   509   Robert   Poole      Roy   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:20:52   509   Brendan   Stead      Roy   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
21   02:20:56   506   Andrew   O'Connell      WWKC   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:20:56   506   Michael   Morrissey      WWKC   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
22   02:21:11   528   Phil   Pearse         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:21:11   528   Olly   Main         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
23   02:36:22   513   Ashley   Fleming      Galway Kayak Club   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:36:22   513   John   Gallagher      Galway Kayak Club   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
24   02:41:04   504   Simon   Platt      Natal Canoe Club ENG   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
02:41:04   504   Gaby   Stevenson      Natal Canoe Club ENG   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
25   03:20:23   531   Henry   Hendron         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
03:20:23   531   Paul   Hayes         SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
26   04:18:07   520   Lisa   Gruener      Intercity Paddlers   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2
04:18:07   520   Tim   Hardings      Intercity Paddlers   SENIOR RACING KAYAK DOUBLE - K2

1   02:13:28   288   Adam   Sweeney      Salmon Leap   SENIOR WILDWATER RACER
2   02:14:53   287   John   Ringwood      WWKC   SENIOR WILDWATER RACER
3   02:17:24   284   Andrew   Redmond      ICU   SENIOR WILDWATER RACER
4   02:20:27   282   John   Parker      Worcester   SENIOR WILDWATER RACER
5   02:21:07   285   Colm   Ryan      WWKC   SENIOR WILDWATER RACER
6   02:25:24   294   Spence   Peter         SENIOR WILDWATER RACER
7   02:29:17   283   Michael   Pigott      Richmond   SENIOR WILDWATER RACER
8   02:32:17   295   DeRaeymaeker   Hans         SENIOR WILDWATER RACER
9   02:47:50   289   Jamie   Pounch      Celbridge PCC   SENIOR WILDWATER RACER
10   02:51:26   286   Jeff   Toomey      Salmon Leap   SENIOR WILDWATER RACER
11   02:52:20   296   Mitchell   Fintan         SENIOR WILDWATER RACER

First Paddler   Second Paddler
1   02:33:29   613   Brian Mc Nulty   C Smith      Chester   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
2   02:46:04   609   T Marron   N Canavan      Donegal Canoe Club   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
3   02:46:59   631   J Mc Mahon   L Creighton      1st Antrim Youth Club   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
4   02:53:27   959   G O Brien   G Coonan      WWKC   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
5   02:58:20   629   D Mitchell   K Durkan      Celbridge   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
6   03:02:17   623   T Monaghan   P Carroll      N A   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
7   03:02:49   626   R Mc Clure   H Triggs      KACC   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
8   03:03:29   603   C Kelly   D Gallagher      Donegal Canoe Club   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
9   03:03:34   625   K Mc Cabe   S Forysythe      Lisburn   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
10   03:04:20   606   M Kennedy   R Fee      CANI   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
11   03:04:54   636   S Mc Kernan   R Mc Kernan      Malahide SC   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
12   03:07:14   722   P Dew   M Clague      Belfast Kayak Club   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
13   03:07:40   627   P Brett   L Cassin      KACC   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
14   03:10:19   607   C Lively   J Mc Vicker      Share   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
15   03:15:00   620   E Quigley   G Raftery      Salmon Leap   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
16   03:17:03   612   K O Shea   C Graney      ICU   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
17   03:20:29   726   R Coffey   G O Donoghue      Shackleton / ICU   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
18   03:23:56   630   M Martin   M Roulston      Donegal Canoe Club   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
19   03:28:07   601   D Comerford   S Mc Mahon      Thomastown   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
20   03:28:20   604   M Mc Cabe   D Vanduyvenvoorde      CANADA / ICU   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
21   03:31:07   602   C Hobson   R Hobson      BRITISH CU (CANI)   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
22   03:34:55   637   M Sollars   L Fingleton      ICU   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
23   03:36:36   624   D Owens   A Fox      n/a   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
24   03:38:30   608   M Ellison   V Jordan      Belfast   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
25   03:39:42   633   J Howard   P Brennan      ICU   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
26   03:44:50   635   J Cully   V Aspil      Mixed   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
27   03:47:28   614   N Clements   O Clements      Leeds Canoe Union   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
28   03:49:54   619   G Whitley   G Tobin      Fresh Air Adventure   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
29   03:50:53   611   G Monaghan   E Ward      n/a   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
30   03:53:06   616   C Buckley   P O Dwyer      5th Port Sea Scouts   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
31   03:54:39   621   T Crowe   F Halley      n/a   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
32   03:57:19   610   E Mc Elroy   C O Flannigan      East Coast Sea Kayaking   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
33   03:58:26   632   B Healy   L Bryon      ICU   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
34   04:09:11   634   C Brennan   J Molloy      Contrast   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
35   04:15:35   617   E Ball   E Egan      5th Port Sea Scouts   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
36   04:26:26   960   Daniel   O'Broin      WWKC   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE
37   04:28:44   618   S Lynch   A Murphy      Fresh Air Adventure   TOURING CANADIAN DOUBLE

1   02:54:11   &

Published in Canoeing

Tagged under

20th September 2011

Northern Ireland Cleans Up at National Sea Cadet Regatta

Northern Ireland has much to celebrate after trumping the rest of the UK at the National Sea Cadet Regatta in London recently, with a medal haul of 22 gold, nine silver and nine bronze.

Among the winners were Luke Fitzhenry and Afton Fitzhenry from Lisburn, who became UK Sea Cadet Champions in their canoeing categories, the Ulster Star reports.

http://afloat.ie/watersport/canoeing/

http://www.lisburntoday.co.uk/community/champion_performance_by_sea_cadets_1_3059609

Luke took gold in the junior mixed doubles sprint with teammate Gracious Philips, and just missed out on first place in the individual sprint.

Meanwhile Afton topped the senior mixed doubles sprint with Adam Campell and the senior girls individual sprint, adding a silver medal in the two-mile marathon.

The NI team also brought home the regatta's top prize, the Armitage Trophy, for the first time this century, along with the Ulster Cup for senior girls, the Barbara Simpson Cup for junior girls and the Nottingham Cup for junior boys.

Northern Ireland has much to celebrate after trumping the rest of the UK at the National Sea Cadet Regatta in London recently, with a medal haul of 22 gold, nine silver and nine bronze.

Among the winners were Luke Fitzhenry and Afton Fitzhenry from Lisburn, who became UK Sea Cadet Champions in their canoeing categories, the Ulster Star reports.

Luke took gold in the junior mixed doubles sprint with teammate Gracious Philips, and just missed out on first place in the individual sprint.

Meanwhile Afton topped the senior mixed doubles sprint with Adam Campell and the senior girls individual sprint, adding a silver medal in the two-mile marathon.

The NI team also brought home the regatta's top prize, the Armitage Trophy, for the first time this century, along with the Ulster Cup for senior girls, the Barbara Simpson Cup for junior girls and the Nottingham Cup for junior boys.

Published in Canoeing

Tagged under

15th September 2011

Volunteers Needed for Paddlefest 2011

The Irish Canoe Union has put out a call for volunteers to assist in the running of this year's Paddlefest event in Co Wicklow.

http://afloat.ie/watersport/canoeing/

Paddlefest 2011 will be taking place on 25 and 26 September at the Hidden Valley Holiday Park in Rathdrum.

The junior paddling festival held every September. Each year 200 to 300 juniors participate in a variety of activities based around the different disciplines kayaking has to offer.

http://afloat.ie/watersport/kayaking/

This year the Irish Canoe Union will be helping out with the organisation of the event, and is looking for volunteers to help give the children the opportunity to go kayaking over the corse of the weekend.

Anyone interested and available to help out should contact Benny Cullen at the Irish Canoe Union at [email protected].

The Irish Canoe Union has put out a call for volunteers to assist in the running of this year's Paddlefest event in Co Wicklow.

Paddlefest 2011 will be taking place on 25 and 26 September at the Hidden Valley Holiday Park in Rathdrum.

The junior paddling festival held every September. Each year 200 to 300 juniors participate in a variety of activities based around the different disciplines kayaking has to offer.

This year the Irish Canoe Union will be helping out with the organisation of the event, and is looking for volunteers to help give the children the opportunity to go kayaking over the corse of the weekend.

Anyone interested and available to help out should contact Benny Cullen at the Irish Canoe Union at [email protected].

Published in Kayaking

Tagged under

8th September 2011

NI Highlights New Canoe Routes Ahead of National Trails Day

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board is highlighting the latest additions to its network of canoeing trails ahead of National Trails Day on Sunday 2 October.

http://afloat.ie/watersport/canoeing/

“We are very fortunate in Northern Ireland to have so many perfect calm lakes and meandering rivers to explore and canoeing provides a great day out or weekend away for the family," the board's Nigel Tilson told the Community Telegraph.

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/sport/new-canoe-trails-add-to-lsquocurrentrsquo-paddle-appea-16046914.html

As previously reported on Afloat.ie, the new coastal Foyle Canoe Trail and South East Canoe Trail join Northern Ireland's five inland canoe trails at Lough Neagh, the River Blackwater, Lough Erne, the Lower Bann and Strangford Lough.

http://afloat.ie/watersport/canoeing/item/16404-new-coastal-canoe-trails-for-northern-ireland/

These will be joined later this year by two more sea trails on the north and east coasts.

National Trails Day will feature six two-hour canoeing sessions with free equipment and lessons. For details visit see www.nationaltrailsday.co.uk.

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board is highlighting the latest additions to its network of canoeing trails ahead of National Trails Day on Sunday 2 October.

“We are very fortunate in Northern Ireland to have so many perfect calm lakes and meandering rivers to explore and canoeing provides a great day out or weekend away for the family," the board's Nigel Tilson told the Community Telegraph.

As previously reported on Afloat.ie, the new coastal Foyle Canoe Trail and South East Canoe Trail join Northern Ireland's five inland canoe trails at Lough Neagh, the River Blackwater, Lough Erne, the Lower Bann and Strangford Lough.

These will be joined later this year by two more sea trails on the north and east coasts.

National Trails Day will feature six two-hour canoeing sessions with free equipment and lessons. For details visit www.nationaltrailsday.co.uk.

Published in Canoeing

Tagged under

13th August 2011

Rheinisch and Heurteau Miss Out in Prague

Ireland’s two semi-finalists at the canoe slalom World Cup in Prague missed out on a place in the final. Just 10 of the 40 qualify from the K1 Men’s Semi-Finals: Ciaran Heurteau finished 14th today and Eoin Rheinisch, who had one touch and incurred a two-second penalty, was 18th.

Canoe Slalom World Cup, Prague (Irish interest)

Men, K1 Semi-Finals (10 to Final): 1 D Molmenti (Italy) 88:32; 14 C Heurteau 93.93; 18 E Rheinisch 95.30

Published in Canoeing

Tagged under

12th August 2011

Heurteau and Rheinisch in Prague Semi-Finals

Ireland's Ciaran Heurteau and Eoin Rheinisch finished in the top 40 in the heats of the canoe slalom World Cup in Prague today and qualified for tomorrow's semi-finals. Heurteau improved on a first run which put him 37th to finish in 25th and Rheinisch, who was placed 10th after the first run, sat out the second run and was placed 28th.

Canoe Slalom World Cup, Prague, Czech Republic – Day One (Irish interest)

Men – K1 – First Round: 1 V Hradilek (Czech Republic) 82.43; 25 C Heurteau 88.89; 28 E Rheinisch 89.16; 78 P Hynes 112.47.

Women – K1 – First Round: 1 I Pavelkova (Czech Republic) 97.43; 41 H Craig 112.95; 56 A Conlon 169.34.

Published in Canoeing

Tagged under

11th August 2011

Smith Best of Irish at Junior Wildwater Worlds

Aisling Smith was the Irish team's best performer at the Junior Wildwater Canoeing World Championships in the Czech Republic, the Evening Herald reports.

http://www.herald.ie/sport/other-sports/perry-primed-to-defend-crown-2841738.html

Smith finished ninth in the women's K1 classic race at the event in Opava at the end of last month.

Her time of 17:48.31 put her 42 seconds behind the winner, Switzerland's Melanie Mathys.

Elsewhere at Opava, in the men's K1 classic Iomhar Mac Giolla Phádraig finished 23rd, Daniel Grimes was 43rd and Bearach O Casaide 44th. In the K1 men's team race the Irish placed 12th, and Mac Giolla Phádraig came 39th in the K1 sprint.

Aisling Smith was the Irish team's best performer at the Junior Wildwater Canoeing World Championships in the Czech Republic, the Evening Herald reports.

Smith finished ninth in the women's K1 classic race at the event in Opava at the end of last month.
Her time of 17:48.31 put her 42 seconds behind the winner, Switzerland's Melanie Mathys.

Elsewhere at Opava, in the men's K1 classic Iomhar Mac Giolla Phádraig finished 23rd, Daniel Grimes was 43rd and Bearach O Casaide placed 44th. In the K1 men's team race the Irish placed 12th, and Mac Giolla Phádraig came 39th in the K1 sprint.

Published in Canoeing

Tagged under

11th August 2011

Liffey Descent Postponed Due To Lack of Water

The annual Liffey Descent canoe race has been pushed back by a month - due to a lack of water.

http://www.afloat.ie/watersport/canoeing/

The Irish Canoe Union (ICU) announced that due to significantly low water levels in the ESB reservoirs that provide the flood for the race, the event has been postponed till 8 October.

Organisers said they were left with the "difficult decision" to either postpone the event or run the things as scheduled on 10 September without the flood.

"“It is considered that the running of the race in the absence of the excitement generated by a flood would detract from its value as the premier Irish canoeing event," said a statement from the ICU.

The Liffey Swim has been an institution since 1960, atracting canoeists from around the world every September for the run from Kildare to Islandbridge.

The Irish Times has more on the story HERE.

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/breaking/2011/0811/breaking1.html

The annual Liffey Descent canoe race has been pushed back by a month - due to a lack of water.

The Irish Canoe Union (ICU) announced that due to significantly low water levels in the ESB reservoirs that provide the flood for the race, the event has been postponed till 8 October.

Organisers said they were left with the "difficult decision" to either postpone the event or run the things as scheduled on 10 September without the flood.

“It is considered that the running of the race in the absence of the excitement generated by a flood would detract from its value as the premier Irish canoeing event," said a statement from the ICU.

The Liffey Swim has been an institution since 1960, atracting canoeists from around the world every September for the run from Kildare to Islandbridge.

The Irish Times has more on the story HERE.

Published in Canoeing

Tagged under

3rd August 2011

New Coastal Canoe Trails for Northern Ireland

This week Northern Ireland welcomes the launch of two new coastal canoe trails.

http://www.afloat.ie/watersport/canoeing/

The new Foyle Canoe Trail stretches for 33 miles from Lifford in Co Donegal to Moville on the Inishowen peninsula at Lough Foyle, passing through Derry on the way, with plenty of wild and official campsites along the route.

Meanwhile, the South East Coast Canoe Trail is a sea kayaker's dream – 50 miles of rocky bays and sandy beaches past the Mourne and Cooley mountain ranges from Strangford village to Newry.

http://afloat.ie/watersport/kayaking/

According to OutdoorNI.com, the trails were developed by the Countryside Access and Activities Network (CAAN), the Loughs Agency and Down and Derry District Councils, add to the five inland canoe trails already in place.

http://www.outdoorni.com/news/412/2-new-canoe-trails-launched-in-northern-ireland/

CAAN development officer Kathryn Callaghan commented: "Both these trails offer a golden opportunity for us all to explore two picturesque corners of Northern Ireland from a unique perspective.”

Waterproof guides for both trails are available free from from local tourist information centres or online from www.canoeni.com.

The coastal trails are the first of four to be launched in 2011. Later this year the North Coast Canoe Trail will take in the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge, while the East Coast Canoe Trail will pass the renowned Glens of Antrim, Belfast Lough and the Ards peninsula.

This week Northern Ireland welcomes the launch of two new coastal canoe trails.

The new Foyle Canoe Trail stretches for 33 miles from Lifford in Co Donegal to Moville on the Inishowen peninsula at Lough Foyle, passing through Derry on the way, with plenty of wild and official campsites along the route.

Meanwhile, the South East Coast Canoe Trail is a sea kayaker's dream – 50 miles of rocky bays and sandy beaches past the Mourne and Cooley mountain ranges from Strangford village to Newry.

According to OutdoorNI.com, the trails were developed by the Countryside Access and Activities Network (CAAN), the Loughs Agency and Down and Derry District Councils, add to the five inland canoe trails already in place.

CAAN development officer Kathryn Callaghan commented: "Both these trails offer a golden opportunity for us all to explore two picturesque corners of Northern Ireland from a unique perspective.”

Waterproof guides for both trails are available free from from local tourist information centres or online from www.canoeni.com.

The coastal trails are the first of four to be launched in 2011. Later this year the North Coast Canoe Trail will take in the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge, while the East Coast Canoe Trail will pass the renowned Glens of Antrim, Belfast Lough and the Ards peninsula.

Published in Canoeing

Tagged under