IF IT’S THRILLS AND SPILLS YOU want to see, or indeed experience, then get yourself along to the the Crana River in Buncrana this weekend.
Crana Fest, which has been described as the premier canoeing event in Ireland, returns to Swan Park with 10 whitewater races over two action packed days of competition.
Irish Olympian Eoin Rheinisch will be in attendance for the event.
There is also seven specialist coaching sessions available across the two days and not to be missed rafting trips that are open to all ages and abilities.
Some of the top instructors in the country will be at the festival so you can be sure of the very best advice when you hit the water.
One of those instructors Adrian Harkin of Inish Adventures, who are organising the event, said the festival has grown each year.
“We try to offer something for everyone,” he said.
“If you just want to spectate you can be guaranteed some of the best white water canoe racing in Ireland but there is also plenty of opportunity to get into the water and compete while we also have coaching clinics and rafting.
“It really is an event for all the family. We have this fantastic river right on our doorstep that offers so much. The racing will be spectacular we can promise you that but I think too it is important for people to know that they can get out on the water and that they can do so safely with coaches who are fully qualified.”
With ten races on offer over the two days there will be no shortage of action. One of the feature events will be the Palm Sprint Challenge.
This is a short course sprint event with part of the race held over the Westbrook Bridge Waterfall. What makes this race all the more special is that it will be held at on Saturday night under lights.
There will be a number of different categories and racers will be timed with prizes for each category winner and the overall winner.
Harkin said: “We like to think all our races are very exciting but the Palm Sprint Challenge is certainly one that people love. It is really spectacular with the added twist that it will be under lights. We have had some races under lights before and the spectators have really enjoyed them and we think that this race will be one of the best that we have had.”
For those who are perhaps new to the water the raft races offer the perfect opportunity to get yourself wet. With six people to a raft it is perfect of groups of people, friends, sports teams or youth groups to come along and really enjoy getting out on the river.
Harkin said: “We really want to encourage people to get out on the water. Crana Fest is a great two days of family fun and the raft races is real evidence that everyone can get involved. You don’t need any experience to race in the raft and we promise you that you will enjoy it.”
For more information on Crana Fest visit the website on wwwcranafest.ie
Tags: