ROWING: The board of Rowing Ireland was forced to withdraw a major proposal without a vote at the agm of the body in Dublin today. Delegates were being asked to adopt new articles of association with the purpose of bringing them into line with company law, but Ruadhan Cooke of Grainne Mhaol pointed out a new provision which would allow the board “in its sole discretion” to disaffiliate a club. He said this was “offensive”. The officers of the board apologised for the oversight, saying that there was no intention of introducing such a new power.

 RI president Anthony Dooley - who along with treasurer Gerry Farrell and secretary Frank Coghlan was elected unopposed - told the delegates that among the upgrades planned for the National Rowing Centre this year will be an adjustable start, which will be brought from the Olympic venue, Dorney Lake. Farrell said that Rowing Ireland spent €6,000 more than it took in in 2011, but was planning for a "small surplus" in 2012.

AWARDS: President’s: John McGeehan, Athlone

Vice Presidents’ – Connacht: Paddy Lally, Galway RC; Leinster: Eric Nolan (New Ross); Munster: Jimmy Fennessy (Clonmel); Ulster: Gordon Reid (Lagan Scullers’)