Sailors take to the pitch for inter-country match

WATERFORD’S search for new hurling talent takes a new and unprecedented route today as the prowess of some of the world’s greatest sailors is tested on the pitch.

Crews from Indonesia, Russia, Poland, the Netherlands and other far-flung destinations will be put through their paces today in the second of two days of inter-country sports.

Despite their hangovers, the international crews were out of their tiny bunks early yesterday morning - having feasted on crusty blas, Waterford’s answer to haute-cuisine. Competition was intense as the sports events got underway, particularly in the high-spirited sack races. All were back in their civvies again after lunch for the spectacular parade of crews through the city.

By lunchtime yesterday, more than 35,000 people descended on the city’s quays to view the magnificent vessels. That number had more than doubled by last night. Among the late arrivals were Holland’s Artemis and France’s Belum.

Those who wandered up and down the quays had plenty to tempt their palate and test their spending resolve. There were queues for the fresh chocolate muffins, piping hot crepes and organic apple juice.

And those who’d over-indulged were invited to test ‘detox bath bombs’ - little parcels of Epsom salts-like powder. The aroma of freshly ground and roasted coffee wafted through the air, as did the sweet smell of candy floss.

Among the busiest marquees was the dedicated Harley Davidson tent. It featured six of the bikes and on sale were baby leather jackets for €60 as well as fleeces for €80.

Captain of the Indonesian Kri Dewaruci ship, Cdr Sutarmono, said he and his crew were delighted with the Waterford welcome. “The public in Waterford are very friendly. People have been coming up to me, kissing me and saying hello, we love you.”

Meanwhile, pubs and hotels dotted along the quays were packed from early morning once news of the blasts in London filtered through. Among those assembled to hear the latest updates were crew members from several of the British ships, including the Discovery and the Ocean Scout. Others phoned home to check on loved ones.

Last night, the Mayor of Waterford, Cllr Hilary Quinlan, extended sympathy on behalf of Waterford to those affected by the London bombings.

Today’s highlights include tours of the ships from 10am; live music on seven stages in the city from 4pm and the Suirfire fireworks display due to begin 10.30pm. Every available place on the larger ships has been booked for parties, barbecues and buffets ahead of the fireworks.