In a spectacular display of skill and competition, the Limerick Annual Regatta unfolded today under the embrace of tropical weather. The event drew a sizable crowd to the enclosure, while the banks of the Shannon River were adorned with enthusiastic spectators. Impeccable arrangements set the stage for a day of rowing that attained an impressive standard.
The regatta comprised an exhilarating card of eleven events, where narrow victories in several instances added to the overall excitement. Among the highlights, the Quin Challenge Cup for junior oarsmen stood out with seven competitive crews vying for supremacy. The day’s proceedings were accompanied by the melodious tunes of the Black Watch band, creating a festive atmosphere in the enclosure.
The Wellesley Challenge Cup, reserved for senior scullers, witnessed a commanding performance by the Shannon Rowing Club, securing victory by an impressive four-length margin over the Commercial Rowing Club. Meanwhile, the Cleave Challenge Cup for aspirants featured a compelling duel between St. Michael’s B-C. and Shannon R.C., with the former clinching a two-length victory.
In the Thomond Cup event, Athlunkard asserted dominance from the start, leaving the competition in their wake and securing a victory with a comfortable lead. The Limerick Challenge Cup unfolded as Perry of Athlunkard triumphed, leaving a three-feet gap to clear water.
The Murphy Challenge Cup for junior fours was a fiercely contested affair, with Leo taking an early lead and maintaining it throughout the race. Despite challenges from Shandon, Limerick, and St. Michael’s, Leo emerged triumphant, securing victory by three lengths.
The Ladies’ Plate for senior fours showcased an intense battle between Shandon, Athlunkard, Dublin Rowing Club, and St. Michael’s. Athlunkard took an early lead, but Shannon challenged and ultimately claimed victory by a length clear.
The Quin Challenge Cup, featuring junior eights, saw a breathtaking race with Lee emerging victorious by a comfortable two-length margin. The Junior Scullers’ competition for the Long Challenge Cup witnessed a commanding performance by Shannon R.C. A, led by C. O’Toole, who secured victory by a significant length.
The Subscribers’ Cup for junior cannon eights showcased Lee R.C. as the dominant force, winning easily by a length and a half clear water. The day concluded with the Shannon R.C. Challenge Cup for senior oarsmen eights, where Shandon B.C. held on to a hard-fought lead, ultimately winning by three-quarters of a length.
The distribution of prizes was a fitting end to a day filled with thrilling races, as the Mayoress honoured the victorious competitors. The Limerick Annual Regatta once again proved to be a celebration of skill, sportsmanship, and the vibrant rowing community on the banks of the Shannon.
Dublin Daily Express – Friday 14 July 1911
