#flycasting – The story of one a former World Champion from Limerick will be celebrated in a new festival In Castleconnell, details of which were announced today.
The John Enright Castleconnell Flycasting Festival will attract dozens of competitors from all over the world to the banks of the River Shannon in Castleconnell from Friday 11th to Sunday 13th October, 2013.
The inaugural event, which culminates in the Spey O Mega International Flycasting Championship, forms part of the Gathering Ireland 2013 project.
In 1896, local man John Enright became the Fly-Casting Champion of the World at Wimbledon Park Lake in England for Distance Casting Competition. He also won First Prize in all five events on that famous day. From 1890 to 1905 his success rate at Fly Casting on the International Circuit was phenomenal. The three-time World Champion, his World Record distance of 186 feet with a 20 foot Castleconnell Rod at Central Park in New York also stands today.
According to festival organiser, John Mac Namara: "John Enright's international exploits brought fame and glory to his native village of Castleconnell. Castleconnell Fishery became an International Fishing Centre and home of the famous Castleconnell Rod, while Castleconnell village was referred to as 'Little Paris'. This event is our way of celebrating this local figure and his contribution to putting Castleconnell on the international map."
Mr. Mac Namara added: "The event will feature fly-fishing instruction for all the family; an exhibition of fly-casting by 2010 World Flycasting Champion Ruairi Costello from Scarriff, an exhibition of John Enright memorabilia, riverboat trips; guided walks; street-based and evening entertainment; and a display of fly-fishing and casting by amateur and professional fishermen, culminating in the Spey O Mega International Casting Championship, which will attract expert competitors from around the world."
The John Enright Castleconnell Flycasting Festival is one of 161 Gathering Limerick festivals and events taking place during 2013. The Programme of events is being coordinated by the Limerick Gathering Team at City Hall. Other events scheduled to take place during the coming weeks include the Legends International Tag Rugby Festival (25-26 Oct), Limerick International Fashion Design Week 2013 (29 Oct-1 Nov), and Richard Harris International Film Festival (6-8 Dec).
For more see visit www.johnenrightfestival.com
