The Swift Irish Coastal Championships 2024 Finals delivered an unforgettable day of competitive rowing on the stunning Irish coastline, despite the challenging weather conditions. Rowers came together to compete in a series of thrilling races, facing not only their opponents but also the elements. Strong winds and intermittent rain made for a demanding day on the water, testing the skill and resilience of every crew.

Men’s Double Sculls (M2X)

  • Gold: Ring
  • Silver: Cairndhu
  • Bronze: Kilmacsimon A

The Men’s Double Sculls kicked off the finals with an intense battle, where Ring took the gold, edging out Cairndhu, who secured the silver. Kilmacsimon A finished strong to claim the bronze.

Women’s Coxed Quadruple Sculls (W4X+)

  • Gold: Killorglin
  • Silver: Kincasslagh / Loughros
  • Bronze: Kilmacsimon A

The Women’s Coxed Quadruple Sculls was a race filled with both intensity and controversy. The Kincasslagh/Loughros composite crew initially crossed the finish line first, showcasing an impressive performance under challenging conditions. However, following an objection from Killorglin, a penalty was imposed on Kincasslagh/Loughros, altering the final standings. As a result, Killorglin was awarded the gold medal. Despite the setback, Kincasslagh/Loughros secured the silver, while Kilmacsimon A claimed the bronze, adding another medal to their tally.

Men’s Single Sculls (M1X)

  • Gold: ULRC – Keelan Mannix
  • Silver: Passage West – Ciaran Brady
  • Bronze: Ring – Neil O’Sullivan

Keelan Mannix of ULRC displayed exceptional skill in the Men’s Single Sculls, claiming the gold. Ciaran Brady from Passage West secured the silver, and Neil O’Sullivan from Ring completed the podium with the bronze.

Women’s Double Sculls (W2X)

  • Gold: Killorglin
  • Silver: Castletownbere
  • Bronze: Kilmacsimon D

The Women’s Double Sculls saw Killorglin continue their winning streak with a gold medal finish. Castletownbere earned silver, while Kilmacsimon D took bronze in a competitive race.

Men’s Coxed Quadruple Sculls (M4X+)

  • Gold: Ring/ULRC
  • Silver: Cairndhu
  • Bronze: UCCRC

In the Men’s Coxed Quadruple Sculls, the combined crew of Ring and ULRC delivered a powerful performance to secure the gold. Cairndhu took silver, and UCCRC captured the bronze.

Women’s Single Sculls (W1X)

  • Gold: Killorglin – Monika Dukarska
  • Silver: Castletownbere – Miriam Sheehan
  • Bronze: Killorglin – Meabh McNamara

Monika Dukarska of Killorglin showed her prowess in the Women’s Single Sculls, winning gold. Miriam Sheehan from Castletownbere claimed silver, while Meabh McNamara, also from Killorglin, took bronze, underscoring Killorglin’s dominance in this category.

Mixed Double Sculls (Mix2X)

  • Gold: Fishguard and Goodwick
  • Silver: ULRC
  • Bronze: Killorglin/UCCRC

The Mixed Double Sculls saw a competitive field with Fishguard and Goodwick taking the gold, ULRC earning silver, and the Killorglin/UCCRC composite team securing bronze.

Special Presentation: Dr. Matt Murphy Perpetual Memorial Award
A highlight of the day was the inaugural presentation of the “Dr. Matt Murphy Perpetual Memorial Award.” This special award was presented by the Murphy family to the 1st placed Men’s Quad Crew (CM4X+). The prestigious award was deservedly won by the Ring/ULRC composite crew, marking a poignant and memorable moment in the championship.

The success of the Swift Irish Coastal Championships 2024 would not have been possible without the generous support of our title sponsor, Swift Racing. A heartfelt thank you goes out to Bantry Rowing Club for their outstanding efforts in hosting this event, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants and spectators.

We also extend our gratitude to the volunteers and the Coastal Committee, whose dedication and hard work were instrumental in the smooth running of the championships. Finally, a big thank you to all the competitors and supporters who came out in force to make this event a true celebration of coastal rowing.

The 2024 finals will be remembered not only for the exciting races but also for the sense of community that defines Irish coastal rowing. Congratulations to all the medalists and participants for making this event a remarkable success!