Tipperary trio selected to represent Ireland in major international rowing events
Shane Ryan, Alex Kennedy and coach Derek Bowen earn Irish call-ups
Five members of Castleconnell Boat Club have been selected to represent Ireland at prestigious international rowing events taking place from July 25 to 27, marking one of the club's strongest international representations in recent years.
The selections recognise not only the talent of the athletes but also the exceptional coaching and athlete development taking place within one of Ireland's leading rowing clubs.
Leading the club's international representatives is Shane Ryan, living in Tipperary, who has been selected to compete for Ireland at the Home International Rowing Regatta in London.
Shane is a visually impaired para rower and no stranger to wearing the Irish jersey, having previously represented Ireland at the World Rowing Cup.
His continued success is a testament to his resilience, determination and dedication. Away from competition, Shane is a passionate advocate for para rowing and works tirelessly to encourage greater participation in sport for people with disabilities.
Alex Kennedy, from Tipperary, has been selected to represent Ireland at the Coupe de la Jeunesse in Lucerne, Switzerland. The Coupe is one of Europe's premier junior rowing competitions, bringing together the best young athletes from 16 nations and providing an important stepping stone towards future World and Olympic competition.
Alex's selection follows months of dedicated training alongside his pair partner, Daniel Hickey. Their commitment throughout the season has seen both athletes earn the honour of representing Ireland.
Daniel Hickey, who was born and raised in Castleconnell, has been selected to represent Ireland at the Home International Rowing Regatta in London.
The annual event brings together the best junior rowers from Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales and is regarded as one of the most important international development events for young athletes.
The club is equally proud to have two of its coaches selected to represent Ireland at the Coupe de la Jeunesse.
Derek Bowen, living in Tipperary, has been appointed Lead Coach of the Irish Junior 18 Men's Sweep Team and Team Manager, a role that reflects his outstanding reputation as one of Ireland's leading junior coaches. A former junior international rower himself, Derek understands the commitment required to compete at the highest level.
He spends countless hours at Castleconnell Boat Club coaching the club's highly successful Junior 18 Girls squad, which includes his own daughters. His passion, dedication and generosity with his time have helped shape the next generation of rowers, making him an invaluable member of the club and a highly respected coach across Irish rowing.