Saturday saw Monika as the sole representative of Killorglin RC vying for qualification in the Women’s Solo for the Endurance European Coastal Rowing Championships. Triumphantly navigating a 4-kilometer trial, she secured a decisive victory, leaving Jordan from Neptune RC in second place. Monika earned the coveted opportunity to represent Ireland at the long-distance European Coastal Championships in Gdansk, Poland, slated for the end of June.
On Sunday, as fellow rowers contended with headwinds at the National Rowing Centre, Monika Dukarska, Sadbhb O’Sullivan, Noah O’Flaherty, John Horan, Chloe O’Sullivan, and Fia O’Gorman set sail on salty waters at Lough Beg in Ringaskiddy. Their objective: to secure qualification for the European Beach Sprints Championships, the novel Olympic discipline poised to replace lightweight rowing and make its debut at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Sadbhb distinguished herself with a stellar performance, clinching 2nd place overall in the Women’s J18 solo. The Mixed double duo of Fia O’Gorman and Noah O’Flaherty advanced to the Semi-final stage, though ultimately falling to a formidable Donegal/Rosscarbery composite crew. Monika Dukarska and Ronan Byrne secured 2nd place in the Mixed Open double, while Monika secured her place in the Women’s Open Solo final, claiming 1st position ahead of Sheehan from Castletownbere Rowing Club.
Monika’s journey will continue as she heads to the European Rowing Championships in Gdansk, Poland, where she will compete in both the long-distance and beach sprint events in the Women’s Solo, aiming to build on her 2023 achievements of silver and bronze medals in the respective events.
Congratulations to all Killorglin athletes for their outstanding performances over the weekend.
Special appreciation goes to Brian O’Flaherty and Andrew Fitzgerald for their dedicated boat handling on Sunday, as well as John O’Sullivan, Kieran McHugh, and the parents for their support at Skibbereen. Last but not least, heartfelt gratitude to Mike Fleming for his relentless efforts in preparing the crews for racing and providing them with the opportunity to compete at these prestigious events.
Big thanks to Passage West RC for hosting a great qualifier for the Championship!
Killorglin Rowing Club 