Ocean to City 2025 update

[KeithY]

Thank you for the interest shown for this event next year.

We have done some further research and talked to a number of people who have previously done this event. There are a number of points that I believe are important to  prior to committing to this event.

Firstly, this is a challenging event. Even if the weather is favourable, always an unknown in Ireland, this is a tough distance (18 miles) part of which is not only going to be against the tide but also takes in some of the open sea (i.e the Atlantic and the openness of the Cobh Estuary) and therefore is likely to be quite choppy to say the least. People do need to be aware of this and the commitment to train and prepare accordingly.

Secondly is the overall cost. We have done some budgeting and the cost to enter, of getting people and the boats there plus accommodation (to be sorted by each person but be aware Cork is expensive) is likely to be c.£700 pp and that is before any food or drink.  You should also be aware we will be travelling over on Thursday 29th May and returning Monday 2nd June.

Thirdly we current only have 2 towers, being Martin and myself so whilst the Claydon’s are covered, as of yet we would need another volunteer for Sweare Deep.

I am not trying to put anybody off but think it is important all the facts are understood. Once you have considered the above then if I can ask for a confirmation of your commitment please then once we have agreed the final group we will then ask for a deposit of £100pp to be paid.

Thanks all

[Geoffrey Shilling]

Hi Kieth. I have done Ocean to city twice. Both times we did the short course that is not going out to sea but doing the short course from from the entrance. Geoff

[Matt O’Neill]

Yes please for me.
Thanks
Matt

[Lesley Grainger]

Hi Keith,
I'm still up for this.
Lesley G

[Tim]

I have only been once some years ago and, as I recall, both Cutters Galleys did the long race, it was challenging but fun. There was also an event on another day where we were offered the chance to try other boats, such as a Coracle on the river. The trip through Ireland was long but very different with various sights of interest and I believe some of the party visited and indeed (pre covid) kissed the Blarney Stone! It was not cheap but for me a worthwhile fun experience all round. There was other cultural stuff to do nearby and some interesting links to the Titanic being the last point of contact with land. Oh and the night life, for those inclined to join in was, I am reliably informed, quite something else😎

[Marion]

Hi Keith, yes, still on my agenda. I also did this trip some years ago and loved it. I thought we did the long route (as Tim said) A bit hard work in places but a lot of fun. Count me in. I'll start saving for it now! Marion x

[Karen Bakovljev]

Yes please. Seems challenging but still be like to have a go. Thank you for organising.

[Dave & Josie]

We would still like to take part - Dave and Josie.

[James Griffin]

Please delete me as i am bound for France
James

I’d still like to give it a try please Keith

[KeithY]

Thank you all for the confirmation of responses.

We have 2 boats confirmed but are 2-3 short for filling a third boat. We also remain short of somebody to tow Sweare Deep.

Could I please ask if there are any other members keen to join this trip and ideally one willing to tow a boat over.  

[Dee]

I can't fully commit to this as China travelling .

[Alison b]

Apologies for late reply. Am more than happy to join everyone for Ocean to City as I've always wanted to take part in this event.
Coleen would also like to take part as well.
Regards
Alison

[KeithY]

Well the good news is we have enough confirmed commitments for three boats (Mabel, Gladys and SD) albeit 5 people in two and 6 in one. Most likely a men's, ladies and mixed team.

However only Martin and I have offered to tow. We need a volunteer to tow SD please otherwise we will need to stand down 4-5 people. Any volunteers?

[Alison b]

Hi Keith
I wish I could tow but I just don't have the skills. It would be such a shame if 4/5 people had to stand down.
Is it worth perhaps asking around some other clubs ?
Alison

[KeithY]

Agree and we are asking around. Fingers crossed but without one we are a bit stuck

I’ve never towed before and would feel a bit nervous to offer. Hopefully there is someone who is able to, if not I could maybe give it a go on a more local trip and see how it goes 🤦‍♀️

[Alison b]

Morning Keith
I've made some enquiries with LPGC. Mark Brownjohn said he could be interested in towing however he is taking part in several rowing events next year and won't be able to confirm whether he's available for another few months.
The other suggestion was the possibility of being able to hire a boat from one of the Irish Clubs ?
Alison

[KeithY]

Tks Alison.  Very helpful.
I think we would need to nail Mark down before end Jan I.e when we enter.
If you have contacts to rent a boat then great.
K

[Alison b]

Will make enquiries for hiring a second boat. I note from the Ocean to City website that entries have now closed for 2025. So am guessing you've already registered the boats ?
Will keep you posted.
Regards
Alison