This weekend past, the Homes International Regatta was held in Cardiff, Wales. Crews from Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England undergo a rigorous and competitive selection process to race at this event.
Fermoy Rowing Club was proud to have two of its elite rowers selected to help represent Ireland. Gavin Morrison and Selma Bouanane, coached by Ray Morrison, were among those selected.
Despite very good weather in Cardiff on the day, a stiff cross wind made racing conditions difficult for all crews involved.
Gavin Morrison raced in the junior men’s quad that finished second to England. The quad had a very good race. England led from early on, and by halfway had a lead of almost a length and a half.
Over the second half of the course, the Irish crew put in a huge effort and cut into England’s lead, but they just held out for a win on the line.
Selma Bouanane raced in the senior women’s quad and double sculls. The double was first out and finished fourth in a very strong field.
The quad had a very tight, tough race, and raced down the course in second place, with England leading again, but only by a small margin.
Very close to the finish line, one of the Irish crew’s oar hit a buoy, and they dropped out of second place.
This was a very young crew racing against experienced internationals, and their performance was nothing short of excellent.
