Mayors, ministers and Olympians launch ‘Summer of Rowing’ on the Antrim Coast

A wave of excitement hit Glenarm Harbour as mayors, ministers, and a double Olympian took to the water to officially launch the Antrim Coast’s ‘Summer of Rowing’—a celebration of coastal sport culminating in the long-awaited return of the All-Ireland Coastal Rowing Championships this August.

Hosted at Glenarm’s historic Eglinton Yard by the Antrim Coast Rowing Association, the launch brought together local rowing clubs, elected representatives, and members of the public to kickstart a packed summer calendar.

The event marked the Championships’ first return to the Antrim Coast in more than a decade.

A spirit of unity and community pride defined the day as a cross-party group of politicians joined rowers on the water.

Among them were MLAs Danny Donnelly (Alliance) and Philip McGuigan (Sinn Féin), East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson, the Minister for Communities Gordon Lyon’s, and the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Councillor William McCaughey.

Rather than merely observing, they actively participated in rowing sessions, drawing applause from the gathered crowd.

Adding sporting star power to the launch was Rebecca Edwards, a double Olympian and veteran of competitive rowing. Sharing her passion for the sport, Edwards praised its wide-reaching benefits:

“Rowing’s physical and mental benefits, and its unique power to build resilience, teamwork and community,” she said, make it far more than a competition.

Elaine Nelson, Chairwoman of the Antrim Coast Rowing Association, laid out the vision for the months ahead:

“This summer, we’re not just hosting a championship — we’re hosting what we’re calling a Summer of Rowing on the Antrim Coast. From May through August, the shoreline will be busy with regattas, challenge events, and championship preparations.

“Every weekend will bring colour, competition, and a bit of friendly rivalry, all building up to the big event in mid-August.”

She also emphasised the broader impact of the Championships on the local economy:

“Beyond the racing, events like this bring real benefits to our towns and villages. With clubs descending on the Antrim Coast from across the island, crews, supporters, families, they stay, they eat, they explore. From B&Bs and cafés to chip shops and ice cream vans, the championship will bring people and energy to our local economy. And that matters.”

The launch event signals the beginning of a season filled with community spirit, athleticism, and economic opportunity for the coastal towns of County Antrim.

The first on-the-water race of the season, the Glens Challenge in Cushendall, will take place on Saturday 31 May, drawing clubs from along the coast to compete in what promises to be an energetic curtain-raiser.

Danny Donnelly MLA, speaking at the Northern Ireland Assembly, also encouraged others to get involved:

“I’ll be backing our clubs all the way, and I encourage all members to come along and experience this truly special sport and event for themselves. It will not disappoint.”

With months of competitive rowing, community events, and tourism ahead, the Summer of Rowing is set to make waves not only on the water but throughout the Antrim Coast.