Big send-off for Beijing-bound rowers

THE people of Killarney pushed out the boat last night to give a royal send-off to three local oarsmen heading to Beijing for the Olympic Games.

A civic farewell was accorded to Sean Casey, 30, Paul Griffin, 28, and Cathal Moynihan, 27, who will be rowing for Ireland.

Kerry mayor Tom Fleming, Killarney mayor Niall O’Callaghan and Killarney’s rowing fraternity attended a reception in the Killarney Oaks Hotel, hosted by Muckross Rowing Club, of which the trio are members.

Club chairman Sean Coffey said the achievements of the oarsmen were remarkable, adding that the people of Killarney wanted to show their appreciation and support before their departure.

“Over the last 15 to 20 years, the club has worked very hard to provide the best possible coaching and equipment,” he said.

“We look on rowing as a national and international sport in which young people in the area can take part. The club has spent around €500,000 on boats and a new boathouse.”

Muckross RC, based on the shores of Lough Lein, is one of six rowing clubs in Killarney.

A 25-strong group from Killarney, including members of the oarsmen’s families and club members, will be travelling to China for the Olympics.

Sean is a member of Ireland’s heavyweight fours crew; Cathal and Paul are on the lightweight fours crew. Cathal and Sean are competing in the Olympics for the first time. They will fly from Dublin Airport with the Irish Olympic team tomorrow.

Meanwhile, Killarney is festooned with large posters featuring photographs of the three local heroes, which are on display on roadsides and in shops and other business premises.