Neptune Rowing Club & Wicklow Rowing Club are putting in place a rowing partnership.
This will see a close collaboration to culture both “flat water” and “coastal” rowing amongst
the two clubs. With the racing seasons for flat and coastal being generally separate this
allows members of both clubs to benefit from racing of all types throughout the year. With
the rise of coastal, and with its confirmed inclusion in the LA Olympics via Beach Sprints, this
offers Neptune a super opportunity to learn the art of this side of competitive rowing. Likewise for Wicklow, this relationship offers the ability for members to adapt to flat water racing. The two clubs will be stronger in partnership together.
Over the past 12 months, Neptune members have been warmly welcomed by Wicklow with training
sessions organised around the Wicklow Harbour and with medals being won in coastal races in from the junior girls and masters men groups. Wicklow members are part of Neptune’s squads and bring a very hardened work ethic to the groups from years of having to tough it out in very rough seas conditions. Both clubs are learning a lot from each other and are extending the passion for rowing of all types.
Barry Clarke, Captain of Neptune says “This is a phenomenal opportunity for both clubs to
embrace even more chances to row and enjoy our sport. Robert, Shay, Samantha and all
the members at Wicklow have been extremely welcoming while also being generous with
their time and use of their coastal equipment. The Wicklow rowers have also injected a new
type of focus and resilience both on the land and water from having to work hard in
conditions that we’d never put a flat-water boat out on the water. With LA Olympics now
having confirmed Beach Sprints as part of the program we have even more opportunities to
represent our country, club and sport”.
Robert Dunne, Chairman of Wicklow says “We are delighted to be embarking on this partnership with Neptune Rowing Club we feel it will be mutually beneficial to both clubs . Over the past year we have trained and competed together. It has been a very rewarding experience where we have learned a lot from our Neptune colleagues .It has been a very positive experience for our members Rowing has become a multi disciplinary sport with many exciting facets to it . This partnership will help both clubs to ensure their members have the opportunity to fulfil their aspirations and compete at the highest level possible In all types of rowing”
Neville Maxwell, President of Rowing Ireland says “The partnership between Neptune Rowing Club and Wicklow Rowing Club holds tremendous benefits for both organisations. By joining forces, these two clubs can pool their resources, expertise, and passion for the sport to foster growth and development. This collaboration offers opportunities for shared training facilities, coaching knowledge, and equipment, ultimately enhancing the skills and capabilities of their members. Through this alliance, Neptune and Wicklow Rowing Clubs aim to strengthen the sport of coastal and flatwater rowing , enrich their community, and reach new heights in their competitive endeavours”