Currachs have become a regular sight on the River Lee in Cork. Encouraging young people into the maritime sphere is very important for the future. Blending this with maintaining traditional marine skills preserves our heritage. It is at the heart of Meitheal Mara at whose organisational base in Crosses it was good to see the number of young people present for the premiere of the film – ‘Bádóireacht: Rows of Opportunity’. Bádóireacht is a rowing and seamanship programme by Meitheal Mara which uses currach rowing to introduce young people from city and county into the marine sphere. Clare Hayden Manager of the Bádóireacht programme, felt that the public should know more about it: “Currachs are a very familiar sight. The best people to tell the story are the young participants themselves. The film has been made to show what they have achieved.”
Founded in 1993, Meitheal Mara is a maritime cultural organisation and boatyard at Crosses Green, on the Lee and in the heart if the city. It’s a registered charity, training centre, community enterprise, promoting and fostering maritime culture and social inclusion.
For Mickael do Couto, French videographer based in Cork specialising in documentary filmmaking, making it was a unique experience. He had never worked on the water before! “Truly inspiring, not only witnessing the passion of the Bádóireacht team, but seeing the young rowers grow in skills and confidence. Unique for me. I never worked on the water or with children in this way before! This has been my biggest project yet.”
Liam McCormick began rowing with Bádóireacht as a student with Cork Life Centre at the age of 16. He features significantly in the film. A huge part of my life. I wouldn’t be on this career path if it wasn’t for Bádóireacht. I’ve met people and got boundless opportunities. I have found great peace spending time out on the water.”
That description is one to be remembered, communicating enjoyment of the marine environment. The short film is available to watch on Meitheal Mara’s YouTube channel www.youtube.com/@meithealmaracork
