Two rowers from the St. Michael’s Rowing Club Dún Laoghaire, Colm Crily and Martin Dowd, qualified for and participated in the World Coastal Rowing Championships, which took place from the 1st to the 4th of November in Hong Kong. This is the first time that rowers representing the club participated in a World Championship. They competed in a coastal double scull (CMx2).
The team faced a difficult qualifying heat on the first day, Friday, when they rowed a 4,000m course consisting of 5 turning points, as they had to deal with an unexpected hand injury, but they managed to qualify for the Final B on Saturday, where they placed 14th.
‘Participating in the Worlds was an amazing experience for the team, as we were venturing into uncharted territory for us.’ said Colm Crilly.
Colm Crily and Martin Dowd, qualified for and participated in the World Coastal Rowing Championships
‘It was a tough competition, but we are proud to have represented the club and worn the colours. Thank you to everyone for their support,’ said Martin Dowd.
The St. Michael’s Rowing Club has so far promoted traditional East Coast clinker built skiff rowing, building on the heritage of the hobblers of old. Having two rowers compete in a men’s double coastal scull is an exciting beginning for the club, which is currently looking to expand its current fleet of 6 skiffs and a One Design boat to include a Celtic Longboat.
‘This is a great feat for the team. The club is delighted and proud of what they achieved.’ said Gary Bryne, St. Michael’s Captain. ‘We would like to thank the organisers, Rowing Ireland and Irish Offshore Rowing for their efforts in promoting this wonderful sport.’
