Graiguenamanagh Regatta Co. Ltd received funding from Kilkenny LEADER Partnership (KLP) for extensive renovations to support the growing number of river activities and boats on the river.
KLP is pleased to support this new purpose built facility which will ensure the continued success of boating on the Barrow in Graiguenamanagh.
There is a recorded history of cot racing in Graiguenamanagh dating as far back as 1880. Graiguenamangh’s Regatta Festival is reputed as Ireland’s oldest regatta and takes place annually in August.
In 1995, the local committee developed a boathouse facility with the support of LEADER funding which included toilets and a storage capacity for boats. In 2001 the rowing club was established, and proved very successful with over fifty members. Over the years, the success of the rowing club and the increase in river activity has inspired the local community to make plans for this new boating facility.
The new boathouse is designed to store, maintain and repair a fleet of cots, rowing boats and racing sculls. It incorporates a workshop area for the construction and repair of traditional Barrow racing cots. In addition, a modern gymnasium has been built for both club and community use. The gym will facilitate winter training for the rowing club. The centre will provide facilities for visiting rowing clubs as well as tourists. The rowing club supports summer camps for children in conjunction with Ossory Youth, Borris VEC, Duiske College and KLP.
The Board of KLP approved €144,899.25 to this project.
