Photo: Finbarr O’Shea
After a largely disappointing day on Saturday when strong winds forced the cancellation of the race, we were hoping for better on Sunday and that’s exactly what we got!
A bright, sunny day unfolded and, with conditions ideal, the race was definitely on. Competitors began to gather at Cuskinny for the 2pm start and soon, boards and rigs covered the beach as race preparations got into full flow.
Following a briefing on the pier it was onto the water and off to the start line. The fleet made an impressive sight in the early minutes as it made its way past the Spit Bank lighthouse towards the town. Dwarfed by the Cruise Liner ‘Brilliance of the Seas‘ berthed at Deep Water Quay, the leaders made good speed as they passed the Naval Base at Haulbowline and headed up river towards Belvelly where a crowd had gathered on the bridge to await their arrival. The bridge proved little difficulty as the competitors dropped their rigs and passed underneath for the final leg of the race
Back at Cuskinny, friends and relations waited for sight of the returning competitors and at about 4.30pm, their wait was over as one, then two rigs appeared in the distance. Shortly afterwards, first and second crossed the finish line and made their way to the beach where they were applauded home by the waiting crowd.
Meanwhile, back in Cobh, a huge crowd had gathered to bid farewell to the Brilliance of the Seas which, following one long blast of the ship’s whistle, was clear of its berth and slowly turning to starboard in preparation for departure.
One day, one island, two more events to add to Cobh’s rich maritime history.
Mouse over the image below to see and activate the slideshow controls and photographers’ detail. Photography by Fidelma Read, John Tait, Finbarr O’Shea and Denis Barry. Enjoy.
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See the post and images from Day 1 here.
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