Waterford Dragon Boat Club took to the River Blackwater this morning for a major fundraising challenge in memory of much-loved club member Orla O’Hearn.
The club’s Paddle Fada saw 44 paddlers take on a 27-kilometre journey from Villierstown to Lismore and back, with the crews stopping in Cappoquin on the return leg before completing the challenge.
The fundraiser aimed to raise money towards a new safety boat for the club, which will be dedicated to the memory of Orla, who died three months ago.
Club Chair Deirdre Cahill said fundraising for the Waterford Breast Cancer Unit was also an important part of the club’s work.
“To fundraise for a new safety boat and we work with the breast cancer unit in UHW and we support them. Any fundraiser we have, we give back because some of our members are breast cancer survivors.”
Waterford Dragon Boat Club began as a support outlet for breast cancer survivors and has since grown into one of the city’s largest sporting clubs.
The club now has around 70 members, with more than 80 people on its waiting list. However, despite its growth, the club does not yet have a permanent clubhouse.
Deirdre also appealed to anyone who might be able to help the club secure land for a clubhouse and pontoon.
“If some of your listeners are out there that could help us, a spot of land for a clubhouse and a pontoon — it’s our dream. Icing on the cake for us would be to have our own premises. We are long enough established and we are entitled to grants, but as we have no address, we can’t apply.”
The Paddle Fada was also a poignant occasion for club members as they remembered Orla, who was an active member and committee member.
Lynn Cahill said the loss was still very raw for the club.
“Three months ago today we lost one of our members, Orla O’Hearn, who was a committee member, and that’s still very raw for the club. She was a really active member. A lot of what we’re doing is thinking of Orla, and raising funds for the safety boat will be in her memory.”
The two dragon boats made their way along the Blackwater this morning, with dragon heads, drums and 44 paddlers creating a colourful spectacle on the river.
Donations can still be made through iDonate by searching for Waterford Dragon Boat Club, or through the club’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
The club hopes the Paddle Fada will help secure a vital new safety boat, honour Orla’s memory and continue its support for people affected by breast cancer.
