There’s something special about taking a crew across the Irish Sea—something beyond the early morning departures, the careful packing, and the ever-present hope that the weather will be kind. It’s the sense of adventure, of racing in new waters, and, above all, the incredible hospitality of the Irish rowing community.
This year, after 25 years, Monmouth Rowing Club made the return journey to Galway for the Tribesman Head of the River, ready once again to test ourselves against strong competition and experience the famous welcome that Irish clubs are known for. From the moment we arrived, we were met with warmth, generosity, and a shared love of the sport that transcends club rivalries. As we prepared to take on the winding stretch of the River Corrib, we knew this would be more than just a race—it would be a weekend of great rowing, new friendships, and stories to bring home.
Friday saw some of the MRC crews have their first taste of rowing on the River Corrib, Galway. Hosts, Tribesmen Rowing Club provided boats and where necessary coxes. They proved to be excellent hosts all weekend. Friday provided some tricky conditions, with the breeze picking up the water. Nonetheless the practice was very helpful in terms of understanding the course and the various hazards!
Saturday was near perfect conditions, sunshine and little breeze. The crews were cheered on by Mr & Mrs Hargedden (Mike was in the last MRC boat to win a pennant at the event).
At the awards ceremony various pennants were awarded. MRC chair presented a club tie to Pat Boyle (Chair, Tribesman Head of the River committee); in exchange MRC were presented with a Tribesman tie.
Division One
Men’s MasF4+ of Colin L, James A, Andy D, Ewart B, cox Jonie. Awarded the Mas4+ pennant. Good strong race chasing down and overlapping with Athlone (MasE) as they crossed the line, time of 13:46 (adjusted time).
Women’s Mas8+ of Sue S, Fliss H, Dawn B, Helen T, Louise T, Denize A, Ali H, Bonita B, cox MJ. A thrilling race from start to finish resulting in a win - and the award of 2 pennants, WM8+ International Club 8 and WM8+; time 14:38 (adjusted time).
Mixed 8+ comprising Kate H, Louise A, Shelagh S, Maggie H joined forces with 3 men from Shannon and one from Endeavour - Kevin, Sean, Simon, Jim, plus cox Emer. Good solid row in a scratch crew; time only (ironically time not recorded).
Division Two
Men M4x+ comprising James A, Scott H, Andy D, Ewart B, cox Emer. Non-adjusted time of 15:25. Adjusted time of 14:04.
Women’s MD4x- Sue S, Fliss H, Shelagh S, Liz L; non-adjusted time of 15:28; 14:45 despite being fastest quad no pennant awarded, and despite a boat stopping crab 50m out!
Womens ME4x- Dawn B, Maggie H, Helen T, Bonita B, time of 17:42, adjusted 16:40.
Women’s 4+ Kate H, Louise A, Louise T, Denize A, cox MJ; adjusted time of 15:57.
Definitely an event to take part in, particularly as it takes place over the St Patrick’s celebration weekend! We were very lucky with the weather, and were warmly welcomed by everyone we met. A special thanks to the Tribesmen coxes for helping our crews!
Also many thanks to all from MRC who organised and arranged this great event, as all international events take a lot of work to make them a success.
So whilst Galway is about an hour north of Lymmerick, it feels like a suitable way to conclude another great Monmouth trip.
Colin, our captain so keen,
Led the crew in a boat swift and lean.
On the Corrib they sped,
Pulling hard, forged ahead,
And in the bars, they triumphed supreme!
Happy Staint Patrick's Day and see you all on the water.
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