Water Wags Take to the Waters of Lough Key for Annual Regatta

24th September 2024

Eleven Water Wags competed in twelve races on Lough Key, showcasing their prowess in a variety of formats, including downwind river races Credit: Vincent Delany

Over the weekend of 21-22 September, the waters of Lough Key in County Roscommon played host to a remarkable event as the Water Wags from Dublin Bay descended upon the lake for their annual regatta.

The historic significance of Lough Key as a venue for sailing events dates back to the 1850s when Hon. Robert King, Viscount Lorton, hosted annual regattas, drawing up to ten yachts competing for glory. However, these regattas came to an end due to a serious fire at Robert King's residence in Rockingham.

This year, eleven Water Wags competed in twelve races, showcasing their prowess in a variety of formats, including downwind river races, up-and-down lake races, and challenging passage races from Knockvicar to the Lake View Cafe at Rockingham.

Visitors at Lough Key Forest Park made notable observations, remarking on the rarity of yachts gracing the picturesque lake, which is often frequented by motor cruisers. Despite this, the regatta brought a touch of sailing history and competitive spirit to the waters of Lough Key.

Published in Water Wag, Inland Waterways

Published in Water Wag

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Water Wags

About The Author

Vincent Delany

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Sailing historian Vincent Delany is a member of the Association of Yachting Historians, and an active sailor in Water Wag, SOD and Squib classes. He has written a thesis on 'Yachting and yachtsmen on the River Shannon 1830-1930.' He has lectured on the history of The Water Wag Club, Royal St.George Yacht Club, and the Killinure Yacht Club, He has written two sailing books 'The Water Wags 1887-2012' and 'The International 12 foot class in Ireland' both of which are available from blurb.com

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