SUNSHINE is forecast for the Clarecastle Regatta which takes place on Sunday (tomorrow) from 2pm to 6pm.
The Regatta promises to be a day of fun with a wide range of events to thrill all members of the family.
Returning firm favourites include children’s fancy dress parade (from the Church Grounds meeting at 1.45pm), dog show, bonny baby, children’s races, Long Puck across the water and best dressed lady competitions as well as a wide range of market stalls, vintage cars, live music and food.
Other events include the Hanging Tough challenge, Soccer Dart, amusements, farm animals, and Zorbs. There will be hurling shootouts, a baking competition with the Best Tart being judged. The water events will include boat rides, kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boards and the highly anticipated homemade Raft Race!
The Regatta was revived over fifteen years ago and has been a resounding success offering the community of Clarecastle and surrounding areas the opportunity to meet and chat, up on the Quay.
Donal Carey, Committee Chairperson stated, “there is great excitement especially since the event came back after covid and once the flags go up on the river bank the enthusiasm starts to build in the community”.
He noted that the flags “are a mighty tradition” and pointed out that it was started by the Scanlon family in conjunction with the Regatta, led by Johnny and Ann, son Bernard, daughter Jane and Liz Murphy and we thank them for helping us get the place ready.
John Power and Clarecastle Tidy Towns also hold regular meetings by the Quay to tidy the area.
Kicking off the day will be a children’s fancy dress parade. This was once one of the main features of the Regatta’s of old with some of our committee members having taken part themselves as children.
Jade Nseula’s efforts with the village market has led to an array of food and craft stalls, many of whom return year on year. Local crafts showcasing some wonderful skills as well as a wide choice of baked goods, plants and some hot food.
Paddy Quinn has organised the music for the day and all the live music adds a great atmosphere to the day. This year’s lineup includes Rewind, 16 Tons of Jive and Acoustic +. We are hoping for great entertainment from these crowd pleasing favourites.
Dermot Moloney’s vintage cars display will have their usual line up of vintage cars with some electric models tipped to be included.
The local Men’s Shed have a target practice ball wall ready to test young and old, on their hurling skills with the targets designed by Paschal Russell. The long puck across the river also forms part of the entertainment.
According to Donal, “the Regatta is a day for people across Clarecastle, Ballyea, Quin, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Barefield, Ennis and the county to enjoy with a little of something for everyone”.
