Three currachs were successfully launched on the River Liffey yesterday to the sound of traditional music tunes and the boats were blessed in a ceremony at Poolbeg in Dublin city.
As Afloat reported earlier, the boats were launched by the Draíocht na Life rowing group.
Traditional Boats of Ireland Editor Criostoir Mac Cartaigh officiated at the proceedings, saying that it's not every day you see three currachs being launched on the same day, especially in Dublin.
The three currachs are launched at the slipway next to Stella Maris Rowing Club Photo: Afloat
One currach is a racing version, built in Connemara and used on the Liffey.
'Cairde' was recently restored by Micheál Ó Maoilchiaráin from Carna in Conamara who took off the old canvas in favour of fibreglass.
A revamp of a Conamara racer, named 'Cairde', from left to right; Peter Carey and Tom Jordan Photo: Afloat
New hardwood and pins alongside a nice new paint job finished off the job.
'Sáile', a two-seater and a three seater, 'Faoileán', were built by Ed Tuthill, a Liffey rower, and both were put together in Clane, Co Kildare.
The three-seater was built during the lockdown.
A two seater currach, named Saile, meaning 'woods salted by the sea' from left to right; Colm Mac Con Iomaire and Frank Tate Photo: Afloat
Mac Cartaigh praised the skill, passion and bravery of the builders who have contributed a huge amount to currach building and getting people out rowing on the Liffey.
The currachs were blessed by Fr Ivan Tonge from Ringsend.
The Draíocht na Life rowing group was formed around 15 years ago by Liffey currach rower and owner, Dave Kelly.
Tunes were played ashore by Colm Mac Con Iomaire, Frank Tate and Fionn O hAlmhain.
As well as Afloat, TG4 were there to capture the event in the stern of Cairde and the launch was aired on Nuacht TG4 at 7 pm Photo: Afloat
Next Saturday crews from Kerry to Donegal and from Conamara to Warrenpoint will take part in the first currach races of the season in Dublin.
