Competition between Kerry and Connemara rowers reaches a peak at the annual Dingle Regatta.
Crowds gather along the quayside to watch the traditional rowing races between teams representing the Gaeltacht areas of west Kerry and Connemara.
Kerry hopes are pinned on the three Griffin brothers fishermen from the Maharees. Billy, Tommy and Declan Griffin along with their fourth crew member Michael Lydon train five nights a week.
Eddie Hutchenson, boatbuilder and competitor, explains that strictly speaking it is not a currach race but rather a naomhóg race. The Kerry naomhóg has four seats and the currach just three.
Finally, it is time for the race to commence. Over the opening stretch, there is little in the difference between each team. However, around half way through the race, the Griffins pull ahead and as they head for the finish line the gap continues to widen. To the delight of the local supporters, the Griffins make it a comfortable victory.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 27 August 2001. The reporter is Peter Leonard.
