Irish Freestyle Team Trials, Curragower Wave
When one thinks of freestyle kayaking in Ireland, the dark, murky feature of Tuam is probably what springs to mind. While this feature has been the catalyst for the renaissance and success the Irish freestyle kayaking team has enjoyed in recent years, Ireland also has a much lesser-known world-class wave called Curragower, which served as the proving ground for the potential Irish team for this year’s European Championships, hosted on Lieksa Wave in Finland.
Curragower, translating into English as “goat crossing”, is perhaps one of the most scenic freestyle features; based on the Shannon River in Limerick City, with King John’s Castle rising above the wave upstream, it is a special place to surf.
The Irish freestyle team trials took place on November 8th-9th, during which Gower was in prime condition, with all wave moves possible and the potential for some hole moves for those who dared. Since it is not possible to paddle back onto Curragower, each competitor was given four rides, with the best two counting.
David McClure proved he is just as comfortable on a wave as he is in a hole with a convincing win, with Billy Brett also having a remarkable return to form after a 6-year hiatus, placing him second, while Tom Dunphy also showed he’s still got it with a spectacular final ride to land him in third. Leah Hough had a strong performance to win the Women’s, with Beibhinn Butler coming second and Eidin Dowling coming third after impressive displays.
C1 saw Robbie Geary and Eoghan Kelly come first and second after what must have been an exhausting final, with Beibhinn Butler going two for two. Brothers Jake and Luke Bermingham came first and second, respectively, in what was a spectacularly close junior competition, with Fergus Murphy coming third after a strong couple of rides, and Coline Kearney proving practice pays off with her performance.
Thanks to all for organizing, and best of luck to the team as they prepare for Finland.
Words: Sean Noonan | Photography: Nancy Geary
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