The foundation of the club goes back many decades. The town, situated on the banks of the banks of the river Lee, always maintained a strong association with the sport of pleasure boat racing and Passage crews were always competing for honours in Summer regattas all over the county. The current crews, young men and women, have become very prominent on the waters around Ireland in recent years and brought home many sweet victories.

Many former Passage G.A.A. players were great oarsmen also in the 1950’s and 60’s and in 2012 the sport is again thriving in the harbour town with great commitment from local volunteers such as Pat Sutherland, Liam Healy, Colette O’Callaghan, and many more. These volunteers are the lifeline for the preservation of rowing in Passage West and they are also endeavouring to maintain a unique and proud tradition of rowing in the community. There is also a great bond with the rowing club from all other sporting associations in the parish and the requirement to promote a greater healthy environment for the youth of the community is now an essential aspect of our society.

The Passage Rowing Club preserve and promote great involvement with the youth. The January Community Award, to recognise the services of the voluntary officers, is an open door invitation to the wider Passage community to join in celebrating the wonderful volunteers who run the club. All persons with an interest in rowing and the history of the local club, will be welcome guests at the function.
The award will be hosted by Derry Doody as compere on behalf of Passage G.A.A. club and Colette O’Callaghan and Liam Healy are the research assistants for a special nostalgic photo trip down memory lane. Popular east Cork musician, Liam Cantillon, will take care of a special evening of music, song and sing along and tasty food will be provided by Eurospar to mark a really special event in the community.

Derry JF Doody – Social & Development