Callinafercy hits the waves in style

THIS year’s Callinafercy Regatta held a special 1916 commemoration and wreath-laying ceremony to remember the men who lost their lives in the Ballykissane Pier tragedy of 100-years ago as JP O’Sullivan addressed a large gathering of spectators on Ballykissane’s role in the Rising.

Donal Keating and his sister Noreen Toomey - nephew and niece of Con Keating, who died at Ballykissane – both laid wreaths in the calm waters as a lament was played by piper, Gerry Baynham. Sean Keating (also a nephew of Con’s) spoke briefly about his uncle and the men who died on that infamous night before the national anthem was played by Gerry and two members of Killorglin Pipe Band - all of which took place before a single boat had even taken to the water.

Even though the rowers had to endure some dull and misty conditions, the waters stayed calm for the most part making for a great day’s action.

Teams from all over South Kerry were represented in the U14, U16, U18 and mixed boys’ and girls’ competitions.

While the Senior Men’s title went to Callinafercy and the Senior Ladies to Sneem Rowing Club. Valentia, Cromane, Portmagee and the Sive club - who won the girls U16 and mixed race – were also among the winners in the underage categories.

The Seine Boat racing event was meanwhile won by Cahersiveen.

“We had a great day even though it was a bit dull. It was great so many people turned up as we had a lovely 1916 ceremony before the rowing started and it was especially nice of the relatives of Con Keating to attend,” said Kathleen McCarthy, PRO of Sive Rowing Club

Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin The large crowd of rowers and locals who commemorated the Ballykissane Pier tragedy of 1916 at the outset of the Callinafercy Regatta on Sunday.

ABOVE: James, Helena, Caoimhe and Emma Hurley with Eddie and Maura McDonald at the Callinafercy Regatta on Sunday. BELOW: Cromane U-14 ladies second place winners (left to right) Aisling Scannell, Claire Fealey, Mike Scannell Cox, Zara Sugrue and Alana...