Elite rowing crews from across Europe and north America will participate in a time trial on the river Corrib hosted by Galway’s Tribesmen Rowing Club during the St Patrick’s weekend in March.
The club says that Minneapolis USA is sending a men’s four, consisting of former US national squad members, to challenge Irish national champions, Cork Boat Club, in the Head of the River on March 15th.
University of Galway also has a fast combination that locals will be pinning their hopes on, so Tribesmen RC says that “a thriller is on the cards here”.
In the junior men’s category, defending champions Coláiste Iognáid, as in the “Jes”, face stiff competition, not only from local rivals St Joseph’s, the “Bish”, but also from the formidable LaSalle High School from Pennsylvania, USA.
LaSalle is described as “a powerhouse with a history of producing seven Olympic rowers”. It is sending two strong eights, raising the bar for all competitors.
The men’s masters’ eights event is shaping up to be another highlight.
Following a dramatic showdown at last autumn’s World Masters Rowing Championships in Berlin, where Ireland edged out France in a nail-biting finish, French super crew Grand League Est are coming to Galway and said to be “seeking revenge”.
“Expect intense rivalry and fireworks as these crews battle it out once again,”the organisers state.
The women’s masters eights will feature an exciting clash between the Endeavour Racing Alliance from the USA and the UK’s Monmouth Rowing Club.
Monmouth, a strong force in European and World Masters regattas, faced tough competition from Endeavour, who won the Head of the Charles in Boston with a crew of former Olympians and US National Team members.
Irish women’s crews are also poised to make their mark, potentially springing surprises on home waters.
Galway’s Tribesmen Rowing Club captain and World Champion oarswoman Siobhán McCrohan
Tribesmen Club president Colin Hanley expressed his excitement: “Galway on St. Patrick’s weekend is something special, and having a top-class rowing event adds to the allure.”
“ Combining both makes Tribesmen Head of the River a really attractive proposition to international crews. They come to race at a high level, then stay to enjoy the festivities,” he said.
Club captain and World Champion oarswoman Siobhán McCrohan emphasised the importance of the event.
“Ireland’s rowing reputation has soared internationally following our Olympic success. Tribesmen Head of the River gives Irish crews the opportunity to race against top-class international crews right here in Galway. We’re really looking forward to it,” McCrohan said.
The club says that the event is made possible by the dedication of local volunteers and the generous support of local businesses.
“Opportunities for sponsorship are still available, and those interested in supporting this prestigious event are encouraged to reach out via social media,” it says.
