The End of Season / Start of Season this year was a change of format which seemed to go down well with those who attended.

Thursday before ten am a busy day began in Grand Canal Dock with the launch of boats by the Dublin, Kildare and Powerboat branches of IWAI and simultaneously the setting up of the marquee at Spencer Dock to provide those essentials such as soup, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine etc. etc.

The boats were locked onto the Liffey by W.I. harbour master Mark Clarke who crossed over to lock everyone up into Spencer Dock and the first level of the Royal Canal. Various head-counts produced figures of over 150 people which was more than double that expected.

The next step was the business in hand, the official naming of Effin Bridge. A carnival atmosphere marked the proceedings before a return to sample the hot goodies. Tide was not waiting as usual so it was a quick lock-down to the Liffey for a fast run upriver.

Mark was at hand to work the fleet back up into Grand Canal Dock to conclude the day’s early proceedings. Our thanks to the back-room people for an event to remember.

The Ryevale Tavern in Leixlip was the venue for the End of Season meal and a pleasant evening was enjoyed with much past- season debate and discussion. The following morning was promised inclement so a noon meeting at Confey was proposed .

The gathering at Confey was impressive given conditions and the group drove to Louisa Bridge to do a walk-about of the sights there. Mick Kinahan did tour guide of the Ryewater aquaduct, Spa, Waterfall and more before dashing off to a wedding function.

The event then moved to the Rambler’s wheelhouse where the Connon family graciously hosted a breakfast roll feast and the chat of last and next seasons went on.

All in all a great couple of days around the water and thanks to all for making it a success.

Joe Treacy.

Photos are from Victor Henry, Ben and Joe Treacy.