Clare sailing club opens new premises

MORE than 250 people braved chilly weather to celebrate the opening of Killaloe Sailing Club's new premises.

For the last six years, the club has been fundraising for the development of a new clubhouse.

They secured European funding of €750,000 for the project.

At the opening day, there was a chance to take part in sailing and enjoy a trip around the lake.

On top of this, there was a barbecue.

Pat Lawless, a member of the club, was among the well-known faces in attendance.

Having just returned from 2022 Golden Globe Race, he presented a flag from the Royal Cape Yacht Club in South Africa.

It was here he stayed after he was forced to retire from the around-the-world race.

Killaloe Sailing Club is always on the look out for new members, and further information can be found at www.killaloesailingclub.com or via email to [email protected]

Meanwhile, Limerick TD and Minister of State Kieran O'Donnell attended, and he was joined by Clare deputy Cathal Crowe.

The county's first citizen Tony O'Brien also came, as did Tipperary's deputy mayor Phyll Bugler.

It was left to Irish Sailing president John Twomey to cut the ribbon at the ceremony.

A former paralympian, John has competed for Ireland in the discuss, table tennis and later sailing.

He said: "I wish to congratulate the members of Killaloe Sailing Club on the opening of their wonderful new club house. It is great to see the community come together to develop such a great facility on the western shore of Lough Derg. As a wheelchair user I am delighted with the inclusive facilities which the new club house offers."

Club Commodore John Callanan added: "We were delighted with the turnout and the day was great fun. It's always nice to see past members and dignitaries come out to support Killaloe Sailing Club, and the fact that Betty McMahon, whose late husband was one of the founders of the club, was in attendance is particularly special. Hopefully, the event and the upcoming season will give even more people the sailing bug at our family friendly club."