President Catherine Connolly officially opened the 2026 Watersports Inclusion Games in Galway today (Saturday, 11 July), before taking to the water in a traditional Galway Hooker. The free national event, running over 11 and 12 July, celebrates inclusive watersports by offering people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to experience life on the water.
Special Encounter: President Catherine Connolly's Galway Hooker sail during the Watersports Inclusion Games included an unexpected close encounter with a dolphin in Galway Bay. Photo: Annraoi Blaney
Centred on the Port of Galway, activities are based at the Galway Sea Scouts' Den and Galway Hooker Sailing Club in the New Docks. Around 300 participants and 200 volunteers are expected across the weekend.
Visitors can take part in sailing, kayaking, canoeing, water skiing, powerboat rides and sensory activities.
Opening the Games, President Connolly said: "We are very fortunate to have this wonderful gift available to us so freely in Galway Bay." She added, "Engaging respectfully with the water allows us to connect with, and deepen our understanding of, the wonder of the natural world. Tá súil agam go mbainfidh sibh ar fad sult agus tairbhe as na himeachtaí agus as an gcomhluadar i rith na deireadh seachtaine."
First held in 2017, the Watersports Inclusion Games aim to make watersports accessible across the physical, sensory, intellectual, and learning-disability spectrums. This year's Games Ambassador is Mark Henderson, a leading advocate for inclusion in Irish watersports. Henderson became the first wheelchair user to complete the 30km Liffey Descent in 2023 and continues to promote greater accessibility through coaching and advocacy.
Opening Ceremony: President Catherine Connolly joined organisers, volunteers and Games Ambassador Mark Henderson at the official opening of the 2026 Watersports Inclusion Games in Galway. Photo: Annraoi Blaney
Galway Mayor Cllr Helen Ogbu welcomed participants and President Connolly to the city.
"We are proud to host an event that reflects the values of inclusion, participation and community that are so important to our city," she said. "By creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to experience watersports, the Games demonstrate how sport can bring people together, build confidence and enrich lives."
Organised by Irish Sailing in partnership with Canoeing Ireland, Galway Sports Partnership and local watersports organisations, the Games form part of ongoing efforts to increase participation in sport for people with disabilities.
