The Courtmacsherry RNLI all-weather lifeboat Val Adnams launched on Sunday afternoon (January 25th) following reports of surfers in difficulty off Inchydoney Beach.
The callout was made at 1.30 pm on Sunday, 25 January, after three surfers sought assistance in rolling swell in Clonakilty Bay, West Cork.
Under Coxswain Peter Nunan, the lifeboat launched with a crew of five and reached the scene at 2 pm to begin an immediate search.
Two of the surfers managed to reach shore safely before the lifeboat arrived.
The third surfer was located offshore after being caught by strong winds and a four-metre swell.
The casualty, who was suffering from cramp, was recovered from the water and assessed onboard by trained crew members.
The lifeboat returned to Courtmacsherry, where the rescued surfer was taken to the station for further assessment and dry clothing.
Lifeboat Operations Manager Brian O’Dwyer praised those who raised the alarm.
“Great credit is due to those on shore who immediately called for help by dialling 999 or 112 and asking for the Coast Guard,” he said.
All three surfers were later reunited at Courtmacsherry Lifeboat Station at 5.30 pm.
The crew on the callout were Coxswain Peter Nunan, Mechanic Tadgh McCarthy, and crew Denis Murphy, Dave Philips, Luke Hanley and Paul McCarthy.
