It was fantastic to see New Ross Boat Club crews back on the water last weekend as we travelled to the Cork Head of the River on the River Lee. This popular event, hosted by Cork Boat Club, Lee Rowing Club and Shandon Boat Club, marks one of the first chances each year for rowers to test their form against clubs from all over Ireland. The course, running down to the Cork Marina, is both challenging and scenic – the perfect way to kick off our spring racing season.
After several weekends lost to poor weather, everyone was eager to finally race. Despite the early start, there was a great buzz along the pontoon as crews prepared to launch, with supporters and parents cheering from the banks.
Club Captain Amy O’Hanlon summed up the spirit of the day perfectly: “As captain, I’m extremely proud of all six crews who raced this weekend. You represented the club with determination and spirit.”
Our athletes certainly delivered some brilliant performances, including three top-five finishes and lots of promising runs from younger crews.
In the Women’s J16 Double, Janey May Cashman and Niamh Brennan rowed an outstanding race to take 3rd place overall — a fantastic result against tough opposition.
In the Men’s Intermediate Single, Liam Crotty showed his composure and strength to finish 5th.
The Men’s J18 Double of Ben Cashman and Darragh Dreelan also produced a strong showing, claiming 5th overall in one of the day’s biggest events.
Sean Power had a busy day, starting in the Men’s J18 Single where he placed 20th, before teaming up with Jack Mythen in the Men’s J18 Double to finish 12th — a great effort across both categories.
Meanwhile, our Men’s J16 Coxed Quad — Cormac Crotty, Gideon Flynn, Aogán Slater, and Henry Roche, coxed by Janey May Cashman — impressed with a 10th-place finish on their first outing together as a crew.
Overall, it was a hugely positive start to the season, with every athlete gaining valuable experience and showing what’s possible for the months ahead.
We’re now turning our attention to the upcoming spring regattas and can’t wait to see what’s next for all our crews. Well done to everyone who raced, coached, and supported the team — days like this remind us what club rowing is all about!
Results – Cork Head of the River, February 28th 2026
Men’s Intermediate 1x – Liam Crotty – 5th overall
Men’s J18 1x – Sean Power – 20th overall
Women’s J16 2x – Janey May Cashman & Niamh Brennan – 3rd overall
Men’s J16 4x+ – Cormac Crotty, Gideon Flynn, Aogán Slater, Henry Roche; Cox: Janey May Cashman – 10th overall
Men’s J18 2x – Ben Cashman & Darragh Dreelan – 5th overall
Men’s J18 2x – Jack Mythen & Sean Power – 12th overall