Founding member and Honorary President Eamonn Colclough on volunteers, fifty years of Tribesmen, and what the Head of the River says about the club.
As Honorary President of Tribesmen Rowing Club, it gives me enormous pride to welcome everyone to this year’s Tribesmen Head of the River.
First and foremost, I want to extend a sincere thank you to the many volunteers in our club who have worked tirelessly to bring this event back and grow it year after year. Since its return, the Head of the River has gone from strength to strength, and that progress is entirely due to the dedication, energy and generosity of our members and supporters who give their time so freely. Events like this simply do not happen without volunteers, and the club owes them a tremendous debt of gratitude.
This year is particularly special as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Tribesmen Rowing Club. It is remarkable to reflect on what has been achieved over those five decades. There are so many people who have contributed to the life of this club, founders, coaches, volunteers, athletes and supporters, that it would be impossible to name them all here without the risk of leaving someone out. Over the course of the year we will take time to properly recognise and celebrate those who helped build the club we enjoy today.
One of the proudest moments in our history came recently with Siobhán McCrohan winning the World Championships, an achievement that brought great honour not only to Tribesmen but to Galway and Irish rowing as a whole. It is a reminder that great things can grow from a small club on the banks of the Corrib when talent, dedication and community come together.
It is also wonderful to see the club thriving and evolving. We continue to welcome new members each year through our Learn to Row programmes, which bring fresh energy and enthusiasm into the club. Our Masters crews continue to represent Tribesmen with distinction at home and abroad, while it is particularly encouraging to see junior rowing returning to the fold. Tribesmen has a proud history of junior development, and many of the club’s greatest successes have grown from that pathway.
Above all, Tribesmen Rowing Club has always been about community, friendship and a shared love of rowing. The Head of the River reflects that spirit perfectly, bringing together crews from across Ireland and beyond to race on one of the most beautiful courses in the country.
To all the competitors, volunteers, supporters and spectators, thank you for being part of this special event. I hope you enjoy the racing, the atmosphere and the warm welcome that Galway always provides.
Eamonn Colclough
Founding Member and Honorary President, Tribesmen Rowing Club
