Mayo Rowing Club Regatta

A summer morning on the River Moy with racing boats cutting the water is one of those free days out that stays with you. Mayo Rowing Club’s regatta brings competitive rowing to the quay at Ballina, drawing crews from across the region to race on one of the finest stretches of river in the west of Ireland. No tickets, no crowds jostling for views - just the river, the boats, and a morning’s worth of racing to watch from the bank. It suits families, anyone with even a passing interest in water sports, and anyone who simply wants a reason to be down by the Moy on a summer’s day.

What to expect

Racing gets under way from 10am and runs through the morning and into the early afternoon, with multiple heats across different boat classes. Irish club regattas typically feature single sculls, doubles, coxed fours, and eights, so there is variety on the water throughout the day. Each class races in heats before the faster crews progress. Between races there is the usual busy activity on the bank - crews rigging boats, coaches timing splits, club members about the place. The River Moy at Ballina is a broad, tidal river that opens toward Killala Bay, with Belleek Woods rising across the water, and it makes for a fine backdrop to a day’s sport.

Getting there

Ballina is the largest town in north Mayo, on the N26 from Foxford and the N59 from Westport and Sligo. From Dublin the drive is around three hours via the M4 and N5. Bus Eireann runs services to Ballina from Dublin, Westport, and Sligo, with the town centre a short walk from the river quay. Parking is available in the town centre, a few minutes on foot from the waterfront.

While you’re in Ballina

Ballina is the salmon capital of Ireland - the River Moy is one of the most productive salmon rivers in Europe, and the town is built around that connection with the water. The heritage and food scene in the town has grown steadily in recent years. There is more to see in Ballina and across Co. Mayo.

Good to know

• Date: Monday, 24 August 2026
• Start time: 10:00am; racing continues through the early afternoon
• Admission: Free for spectators
• Organiser: Mayo Rowing Club
• Website: mayorowingclub.ie - check here for any updates closer to the date
• Getting there early is worthwhile if you want a good spot along the bank for the opening heats