IWAI Corrib Summer Rally – 2011
by Zara Brady – Commodore of the 34th IWAI Corrib Summer Rally
Somebody definitely did some serious lobbying with the Good Lord above to send us those perfect weather conditions for our 34th Summer Rally! We were so lucky to get the only fine days in July.
Everyone seemed to enjoy the weekend judging from the texts and eMails I received – the venture into Greenfields Bay and the hike up the hill on Inishdawee, came in for special mention.
My sincere thanks to all those members who participated in the Rally and whose support made it a very successful event. Some people came in their boats; others joined us for the Lisloughrey supper – it all contributed to the fun and happy atmosphere that prevailed throughout the weekend.
Great credit is due to Peadar Canavan and Pat McCambridge who strimmed the grass in Cleenillaun and cut the firewood prior to our visit, to Michael Hynes who acted as Safety & Children’s Officer, and to the medics Noel Flynn, Fergus, Philip and Anthea Brady.
Edward Deacy acted as Berthing Master – as well as steering two boats, two RIBs and one kayak – all at the same time! Paul Faller organised lovely cut glass Rally Souvenirs and prizes for the children, Pat McCambridge sponsored a very special Wine & Cheese Reception on the shores of Inishdawee, Paul Horan sustained us with the finest burgers and sausages, Anne Sherry provided the buns.
Joe Brady collected our tent in Glann, Jim Joyce gave us BBQ coals, Henry Brady devised the colouring books. Paul Faller unfortunately could not make it, and my thanks to Anthony Ryan for stepping in at the last minute to look after the entries.
Four members assisted with the Quiz which was won by Jonathan Margetts on 38 points, closely followed by Noel Flynn on 37. The Cup for the Most Outstanding Young Person was awarded to 5-year old Alex Deacy who had us in awe with his mastery of the kayak.
Fionnuala Deacy suggested the Pyramid Restaurant in The Neale to cater the hot supper on Lisloughrey Quay. It was a great idea because it allowed us all to eat together and chat. Fionnuala and Anthea went off together at 7 p.m. and collected the hot food and yummy desserts.
Both Edward and Fionnuala Deacy, along with Alex and Eleanor, have been amazing. They welcomed me at all hours of the night (ah sure, there wasn’t time in the day) to discuss Rally plans. They are a wonderfully talented young couple who flawlessly balance warmth and professionalism.
That brings me to Monday afternoon, when John and Eileen Maguire invited us to tea at their lovely home. Between the delicious coffee cake, the views and four little House Martins peeking out of their nest, it was a wonderful finale to a great trip on the lake.
I don’t know how many people I have mentioned now, but it does illustrate how much combined effort goes into the organisation of an event. It makes it all worthwhile when the turnout is as good as this year: twenty boats. Thank you to everyone, enjoy the boating season and may you keep safe on the lake.