News

It’s no exaggeration to say that this year’s Donegal Regatta was extremely challenging, both for the organisers and for the Plurabelles. But dragons aren’t easily defeated! Despite the Regatta being postponed by a day due to high winds, it went ahead the next day and was a terrific success.

The Plurabelles who could stay the extra day and compete in the event joined paddlers from Canada and Donegal in the Khalessi composite team – the silver-medal-winning composite team! Yes, Khalessi came second in the Minor final (between Donegal Dragons Inspire and West Island Dragons from Canada). In the Major final, Belfast Phoenix came first, Dublin Vikings second and Donegal Dolphins third.

As these photos so clearly show, we had a great time. The fancy dress theme was Superheroes – and there were plenty on display over the weekend . . . superheroes don’t always wear capes, some of the time they wear training tops!

Early on 11 June 38 Plurabelles and their supporters left Dublin to travel the 84 km to Carlow to compete at the Barrow Regatta. The club entered two teams in the Women’s category – the Plurabelles and the Purebelles. The Plurabelles reached the grand final and finished third behind Carlow Dragons, who beat KACC in a photo finish. Although the Plurabelles are focused and committed when racing, the Regatta was also an opportunity to enjoy a day out with teammates, family and friends. Thank you to the IDBA and well done to all our fellow competitors.

In the past, it has witnessed athletes strive for Olympic Gold, but this May the magnificent Canal Olímpic de Catalunya welcomed the Plurabelle Paddlers (along with 63 other teams) for the 4th Barcelona Regatta.

The Plurabelle Paddlers joined 1,323 paddlers from 17 nationalities competing at the regatta. Despite some very stiff competition, the Plurabelle Paddlers finished second in the Minor BCS Final and the club also secured a fourth place in the Senior Women’s Open 200m competition. Terrific job, ladies!

There was great support and camaraderie between the three Irish teams at the Regatta – Lagan Dragons, Suir Dragon Paddlers and us. Though the cheering didn’t extend to the other Irish teams when they were racing against the Plurabelle Paddlers – it is a competition, after all!

A huge thank you to James and Dragonboat Emotions and to all our fellow paddlers at the Regatta. We had a wonderful time!

The Plurabelle Paddlers travelled to the beautiful Co. Kildare town of Athy for the club’s first race of the season: the Athy Regatta. The Plurabelles had two teams in the regatta – the Plurabelle Paddlers came fourth in a competitive women’s category, with the Purebelles securing silver (behind Carlow Dragons in a closely fought final).

The Athy Regatta was a wonderful opportunity for Plurabelles to meet old paddling friends and to make many new ones. Yes, there was fierce competition, but there was also lots of fun and laughter too. It was great to see and paddle against the other Dragon Boat teams. Thanks to the IDBA for another terrific regatta.

Rosemary Phelan has been named as this year’s recipient of the Spirit of Plurabelle award (as nominated by club members). The beautiful trophy was presented to Rosemary in memory of Fiona Tiernan, who, along with Marian O’Dea and Julie Doyle, founded the club thirteen years ago. The award was presented to Rosemary by Fiona’s son Oscar, who, as a child, regularly drummed on the boat.

As a sports club, the Plurabelle Paddlers love to race and compete. The fact that the Plurabelle Paddlers have two teams racing in the Athy Regatta is testament to Rosemary’s hard work and dedication. She has worked tirelessly over the years to ensure that all club members are prepared and are in top shape for each race.

Thank you, Rosemary, for all that you have done for the Plurabelles and congratulations on your very well-deserved award.