Displaying items by tag: Donnaca Kennedy

3rd June 2016

'5 At 85' No Sweat In Charity Rowing Challenge

Donnaca Kennedy rowing in his '5 for 85' fundraiser last weekend

#Rowing - Not content with rowing 80km for his 80th birthday, Donnaca Kennedy took advantage of the good weather for another fundraising row to mark his 85th this summer.

The former Weaver Boats proprietor, who will be familiar to many veteran Shannon boaters, aims to raise money for the North West Cancer Hospice and the Ethiopian Cancer Squad via his latest endeavour.

Originally planned for this June Bank Holiday weekend, Kennedy seized on the perfect rowing conditions last Sunday 29 May for the five-mile run from Carrick-on-Shannon to the Boyle River.

But he's still welcoming donations for his chosen charities, both close to his heart.

After spending some time under the care of the team at the North West Hospice, Kennedy has first-hand experience of how important this service is for those in need, according to his daughter Úna who's been getting the word out about his plans.

To read more about his row and the charities involved, visit his blog at 5at85.blogspot.ie.

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About the Watersports Inclusion Games

The Watersports Inclusion Games are an award-winning event organised by Irish Sailing with partners from across the watersports sector, that enable people of all abilities from the physical, sensory, intellectual and learning spectrums to take to the water to participate in a wide range of water activities.

More than 250 people with physical, sensory, intellectual and learning disabilities typically take part in the weekend's events.

Participants will have the opportunity to try more sports than ever before, with an expanded range including sailing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle-boarding, rowing, surfing, water skiing and powerboating all on offer.

The Games typically take place each August.

The organisers of the Games want to let people of all abilities know that there are multiple watersports available to them, and to encourage more people from all backgrounds to get involved and out on the water regardless of ability. They aim to highlight that any barriers faced by people with disabilities can be eliminated.

There are social, health and wellness benefits associated with sailing and all watersports. These include improved muscle strength and endurance, improved cardiovascular fitness and increased agility, enhanced spatial awareness, greater mental wellness through the balancing of serotonin levels and the lowering of stress levels, improved concentration and the forging of positive relationships.