Dangan House Nurseries — runs the Tea Rooms
When did you begin rowing?
I began rowing about 8 or 9 years ago with Tribesmen, pre tour boats.
Why?
I am from a small town in Tipperary. I have always been involved in sport. I played camogie, football and handball at various levels. I was also involved in athletics, as a cross-country runner mostly. I came to Galway in the early 80s and got involved in soccer for a few years, and played a lot of 7-a-side competitions. One stands out: we refused to play a final unless we got a proper pitch, not a swamp. We stood and watched the ref blow the whistle and give the game to the other team. That was a proud moment for me, defending women’s sport. I also did a few Maracycles with Co-operation North — a southern bunch cycled from Dublin to Belfast for a social gathering in Queen’s and back to Dublin the next day with the Northerners for a fun evening in the RDS. This was pre-motorway, and after 6 or 7 years the event was cancelled due to a traffic accident involving the death of a cyclist.
My kids also played various sports. On the sidelines of the Galwegians’ rugby pitch, a pal suggested I try rowing. I liked the idea of trying a water sport as we are surrounded by it. When the time was right for me, I tried the rowing and still am.
Do you have a favourite seat?
At this stage of rowing, I have experience in most seats — steering, stroking, middle of boats and also coxing. Now any seat in any boat is a good spin.
What was your top challenge?
Competing in Bled at the World Masters and learning to row straight in lanes.
What would you like to learn or improve?
I would like to improve my sweep rowing and to continue to be a competent rower.
Favourite spin?
Heading up the river and out onto the lake on a calm day.
What do you love most about rowing?
The friendships, the coaching, the fitness, and the wonderful buzz I get from it.
