Calico sails of Galway Hookers and currachs will be visible off Salthill promenade this weekend for “An Tóstal”, a two-day regatta celebrating maritime life.
Male, female and junior traditional currach racing will take place, with Galway Hooker racing in the bay, weather permitting. All activities will be visible between Seapoint and Blackrock Promenade.
There will be music, a “tiny traders’ market” and sand castle building on the beach.
Preparing for a race during An Tostál Currach Racing Festival in Salthill, Galway in 2023 Photo: Joe O'Shaughnessy
The event is hosted by the Galway Hooker Sailing Club, in partnership with Salthill village business community, Blackrock Cottage restaurant, the Gráinne Mhaol Rowing Club, and Galway City Council. The local authorities promises “family fun” activities.
“An Tóstal” means “gathering” and it was initiated in the early 1950s.
“Tóstal na Gaillimhe” of 1953 hosted by Bord Fáilte marked the beginning of the All-Ireland Currach Racing Championships. After it lapsed in 1959, it was revived again in 2011, and new trophies were presented in 2012.
Competitors during a race at An Tostál Currach Racing Festival in Salthill, Galway 2023 Photo: Joe O'Shaughnessy
This year’s two-day gathering involves male, female, and junior traditional currach racing rowers alongside sliding seat rowers. There will be live bilingual commentary.
The currachaí will be provided by Cóiste Lár na gCurrachaí for the duration of the festival, and Bádóirí an Chladaigh will have a parade of sails.
The organisers say that “in the expectation of similarly good weather conditions”, the Gráinne Mhaol Rowing Club will be hosting ‘Try Rowing’ sessions, and Galway Hooker Sailing Club will be hosting ‘Try Sailing’ sessions for those curious about getting started.
An award ceremony will take place in Blackrock Cottage at 6pm on Sunday May 12th.
