Tipperary rowers on top of the world at regatta in Germany

Clonmel Rowing Club members Michelle Gregory and Sandra Wall, competing in the Women’s A category 2x, had a great victory at the World Masters Regatta in Brandenburg, Germany.

The World Masters Regatta has become a fantastic event, with more than 4,000 competitors ranging in age from 27 to an astonishing 94 from over 60 countries taking part.

Clonmel Rowing Club had five men and eight women competing in multiple events over the five days.

Several Clonmel boats featured in the top five, but it was the long time partnership of Michelle Gregory and Sandra Wall who achieved the pinnacle of their sport in Masters rowing.

Strong winds forced the cancellation of Saturday afternoon’s racing. Conditions were still challenging on Sunday but Nell McCarthy and Paul Nugent had a great race in the Mixed 2x.

In an eight-boat final it was the Australians who were fastest off the start, with the Clonmel crew engaged in a battle with Denmark and Austria for second place.

At 500 metres the Clonmel boat put in a concentrated effort, which gradually drew them clear of the Danish and the Austrians but off over in Lane 1 the Australians, with a former Olympian on board, crossed the line first with a length to spare over the Irish boat.

All in all, there were some good results for the Clonmel rowers.

Clonmel’s recreational rowers were also on the water in Germany and they too had to deal with very challenging conditions.
Nonetheless, they rose to the occasion and had a very enjoyable day’s rowing.

Sad death of former Clonmel member Alan Thomas

It is with great sadness that the Clonmel club records the passing of Alan Thomas at the far too young age of 61.
Alan had a dental practice for many years in Sarsfield Street in Clonmel and rowed with Clonmel Rowing Club in the Masters regattas.

He also coached crews in his quiet, unassuming manner.

Alan was highly respected in Irish rowing circles, having won several several senior championships with Trinity and Neptune as well as a Ladies Challenge Plate at Henley.

We are sure that the angels in heaven will marvel at his rowing prowess as he propels his boat across the River Styx.

May he rest in peace.