Local Rowers Welcome Teams From Across Northeast at New London Currach Regatta

NEW LONDON, CT – The Currach Rowers of Connecticut Shores held its annual regatta July 25 at Custom House Pier in New London, where teams from New York, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts competed in traditional Irish rowing races on the Thames River.

Maureen Plumleigh of Old Lyme, president of the Connecticut Shores team, said competition featured races in several categories, including four-person men’s and women’s crews, mixed crews and pairs. The Philadelphia team earned the highest point total of the day and took home a trophy presented by the Ancient Order of Hibernians’ John P. Holland Division, whose members also assisted with the event.

Plumleigh credited members of the North American Currach Association with providing an additional currach for visiting rowers.

The Currach Rowers of Connecticut Shores will offer free “Learn to Row Irish” lessons during the Connecticut Maritime Heritage Festival Sept. 12-13 at Fort Trumbull in New London. Those interested in reserving a half-hour lesson may contact the club at row.currach.nl@gmail.com.

The Currach Rowers of Connecticut Shores is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the sport that revolves around lightweight boats used for centuries along the Irish coast. The group’s modern currachs are built using traditional methods, with steam-bent wooden frames and canvas coverings.