Donaghy Siblings Make Their Mark at Henley Regatta
Odhran, Cillian and Clodagh Donaghy, all members of Enniskillen Royal Boat Club, took part in this year's Henley Royal Regatta. The three siblings each secured pre-qualification for the prestigious rowing meeting, while their club also fielded two junior eights at the event for the first time.
Odhran, 25, rowed for Taurus Boat Club in The Silver Goblets & Nickalls' Challenge Cup, a coxless pair event, alongside Louis Nares. It was his fourth appearance at Henley. Cillian, his younger brother, raced in the club's Junior 18 first eight, having previously captained Enniskillen's Junior 16 crew to victory at the Irish Championships. Clodagh, 15, competed in The Prince Philip Challenge Trophy after earning a place in the club's first girls' eight, despite only beginning sweep rowing that season.
Their mother Bernie Donaghy recalled that all three took to the sport after their first time in a boat. She said Clodagh had to choose between rowing and rugby after being selected for an Ulster underage squad, but rowing was always her priority.
The family praised the influence of Irish Olympian Derek Holland. Bernie Donaghy said her children had complete trust in their coach, who instilled discipline and belief in them.
Looking ahead, Odhran hopes to move into coaching, while Cillian intends to continue rowing during his medical studies. Clodagh is targeting a rowing scholarship in the United States.