|
CELTIC CONNECTIONS
|
|
|
Inagh Open Surf Event The idea for this event came about after Stuart and Debbie Green had packed in their UK life and put it all into a van plus their two teenage girls!! and headed for the green fields of Ireland in search of a better life. Its now been two years and Stuart now runs Lahinch's first surf school "Stuart's Surf School" and between himself and Debbie they also run a surfer friendly campsite from their new home in Inagh Co Clare. When they got to Inagh it was clear that parish life for the youngster was on a down turn in the olden days there had been donkey derby's and tug of war, wheel barrow races and greyhound drags which still happen thanks to the Harvey's of Inagh. So it was time to bring surfing to the land locked youngsters/adults of Inagh. You now have to keep in mind that the thought of land people going anywhere near the sea was not the normal way of doing things in Inagh. So this was a huge challenge for the Green family. So a training day was arranged at Spanish point, for many of the ones to turn up this would be their first visit to Spanish point (It is only 15 minutes drive from Inagh!!) There was a good turn out and it was felt that there was enough interest to hold the event in the following couple of weeks. On the 28th May 2002 the event was staged. Judges were chosen from Inagh, people who knew nothing about surfing so rules were explained. This event was for the novice and you had to live in the Inagh parish. There were cups to be awarded and prizes, sponsers were The Green family, Mikey Dillion and food provided by the Harveys, the latter being long standing Inagh folk. The event was a huge success, and it was decided after a four hour sing song in Inaghs Ramblers Rest Pub that the event would carry on every year. Cups were presented to the winners. First place went to Damo Harvey 2nd place to Bred Wren and third to Mikey (Speedy) Dillion. Speedy had sponsered the 2nd prize cup. 4th Pat the butcher who got a gotcha surf T shirt, saying I got a ride!!!!!! Speedy Dillion has now gone on to enter his first Irish competition and did very well as a novice.So until next year when it will all happen again this time Stuart will invite all the locals who have had lessons with him this year. Damo watch out!!! |
|
