Waterways Ireland and Rowing Ireland have formed a strategic partnership to grow on-water recreational participation in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Beginning with supporting young people, the partners are developing plans to increase engagement with women in sport, older people, and people with accessibility challenges.
The first initiative as part of the partnership is the Waterways Ireland “Row for It League” which involves approximately 2,400 young people from clubs across the island, participating in a rowing league over the next six months.
Teenagers will compete against teams from across the country in five league events — held in Limerick, Castleconnell, Carlow, and Athlone — before culminating in the final event in Carrick-on-Shannon in August.
John McDonagh, chief executive of Waterways Ireland said: “Waterways Ireland is delighted to work with our partners in Rowing Ireland to grow participation in on-water activity on the inland waterways. Rowing, organised through the huge number of clubs across the waterways, provides significant local, easy access to leisure and competitive sport with social, health and wellbeing advantages for all the participants.
“We look forward to expanding the partnership with Rowing Ireland over the coming years into Northern Ireland and to include opportunities for women in sport, older people, and people with mobility challenges to enjoy on-water recreation.”
Rowing Ireland chief executive Michelle Carpenter said: “We are thrilled to partner with Waterways Ireland in this exciting initiative, which will provide new opportunities for young rowers across Ireland and our significant pathway.
“The ‘Row for It League’ not only strengthens the bond between our clubs but also encourages more young people to experience the joy of rowing in a structured and competitive environment. This collaboration aligns with our ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity in the sport, reaching women, older adults, and those with accessibility challenges.
“We look forward to seeing the league grow and evolve, inspiring the next generation of rowers while making full use of our beautiful waterways.”
