Sea race makes waves for charity

A CHARITY sea race was held on the Northside last week to raise much-needed funds for the Mark Pollock Trust and the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI).

The Velvet Strand Race comprised three courses for novice and elite competitors.

The course was located close to the shore to allow spectators to get a close view of the race as it ran between Malahide and Portmarnock beach.

It was held to promote water sports and to highlight the work done by the RNLI and the Mark Pollock Trust.

The event, organised by William Irwin, proved to be entertaining for both participants and spectators alike.

Mr Irwin said:

“I was extremely happy with how the race went. Competitors came from far and wide to take part.

“It was especially rewarding to see some of the juniors tackle the conditions on the course with relish. They really enjoyed themselves. The turnout was good but lower than I had hoped.

“With more planning and support from the governing organisations hopefully we’ll be able to increase participation for the Velvet Strand Race 2013.”

Piers White, a spokesperson for the Mark Pollock Trust, said they were extremely grateful for the funds received from the race.

“Mark is a huge fan of water sports having previously competed in both the Coast-to-Coast race in New Zealand, and the Round Ireland yacht race,

? stated Mr White.

“Following his catastrophic spinal cord injury in 2010, Mark hopes to recover and to be a pioneer for others with spinal cord injuries by exploring the frontiers of this catastrophic injury.

“He is doing this through aggressive exercise therapy programmes and innovative robotic technology. All the funds raised through the Velvet Strand Race will help greatly in his cause.

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Rose Michael, Howth RNLI fundraising chairperson, said:

“Funds raised will ensure that our lifeboat crews go to sea with the best equipment available to ensure their safety when saving lives at sea.

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