Fr. Gerard Deegan Blesses New Skiff at Vartry Rowing Club, Highlighting Need for Clubhouse

Fr. Gerard Deegan recently blessed the new skiff named ‘Gracie’ at the Vartry Rowing Club’s blessing of the boats ceremony held at Wicklow Harbour. The boat, built by Louis Hunkin of Fowey in Cornwall, was purchased through the Sports Capital Programme, marking a significant milestone for the club.

The addition of the new skiff, which cost €25,000, will allow Vartry Rowing Club to compete in regattas along the east coast for the first time. Club Chairperson George O’Brien expressed his excitement, stating that the skiff is a welcome addition to their fleet of ten boats and will open up new opportunities for skiff racing in the future.

However, despite the club’s achievements, they are still facing a major challenge – the lack of a home or clubhouse to store all their boats and equipment. Currently, the club stores their boats on the green area beside Wicklow Sailing Club, leaving them vulnerable to the elements and in need of constant repairs.

George emphasized the urgent need for a proper storage facility, stating that the club’s ambition of participating in the regatta circuit can only be fully realized with a secure home for their equipment. Previous efforts to secure a home have been unsuccessful, but the club remains hopeful that they will find a suitable location soon.

With over 75 members ranging in age from 12 to 65, Vartry Rowing Club is eager to find a premises as close to the sea as possible. They are open to sharing a space with other clubs in the area and are determined to find a permanent home now that they have acquired the new skiff.

The club’s dedication to their sport and their community is evident, and with the support of their members and the local community, they are optimistic about the future of Vartry Rowing Club.