20 August 1997
Nearly fifty years after the last regatta was held, Inishturk came alive at the weekend when the custom was revived.
Adjoining island communities gathered at the west Mayo outpost on Saturday to take part in a day of currach, yacht and fishing boat races.
Inishturk last hosted a regatta in 1948. Now the 98 islanders are determined to make it an annual event.
A large crowd from neighbouring Clare Island, Achill Island and Inishbofin and the mainland arrived on Inishturk for the festivities. And despite an overcast day, spirits weren't dampened and every race was keenly contested.
There were three categories in the currach races - triples, doubles and mixed doubles. The triples race was won by Martin Halloran, Andrew Murray and John F. Heaney. The runner up spot went to Noel Heaney, Patrick Heaney and Richard O'Toole.
In the doubles currach race Martin Halloran and Andrew Murray made it a double success when they reached the harbour ahead of Eamon Heanue and Dominick Heaney.
John F. Heaney and Catherine Concannon were first in the mixed doubles competition. Second place went to Ciara Cullen and Patrick Heaney.
The six-horse power outboard race was won by Joseph O'Toole and Eamon Heanue was second.
There was also a special race for fishing boats with the Rossbelly taking first prize, followed by the Queen of Killary.
The winners were presented with their trophies at a function held in the island's community centre.
A barb-e-que and music by top traditional musician P.J. Hernon and the group The Classics rounded off the night's celebrations.
CAHER ISLAND PILGRIMAGE
The regatta was just part of a busy weekend of activities on Inishturk over the weekend.
The annual pilgrimage to Caher Island took place on Friday. A large crowd from the mainland and the island communities gathered on the now deserted island to celebrate a special Mass.
