Peter O'Hara showcases his skills on the Lower Bann.

SOAK UP THE 2008 WATERWAYS IRELAND RIVERFEST

ROWING, Jet skiing, bare footing and wakeboarding are just some of the highlights of the Waterways Ireland Riverfest, taking place in Coleraine on June 14 and 15. The two day event on the Bann was officially launched this week by organisers Rob Skelly of the Edge Watersports Warehouse, Waterways Ireland and Coleraine Borough Council.

Following the success of last year's inaugural Riverfest organisers have pulled together a full programme of great watersports complemented by fantastic family entertainment at Christie Park, Coleraine. The event will feature river based activities performed by world class experts. Dr Janet Gray MBE, World Disabled Waterski champion and Northern Ireland personality of year, will be wowing the crowds with her fantastic displays. Andre De Villiers - World Bare Foot Champion, Andy McDonald - Ireland's Number one in Barefooting and World Champion free style Jet Skier and Ant Burgess will all be there to showcase their amazing skills.

Rowing is one of the most popular and long established watersports on the lower Bann, the prestigious Waterways Ireland Rowing regatta will be held over the two days and will attract rowers from all over Northern Ireland.

There will be many family attractions over the two days, including, Bouncy castles, a climbing wall, face painters, a lazer quest, live music, a boat display, and range of stalls. Live music from Ken Haddock and King Biscuit and a spectacular fireworks display over the River Bann will round up Saturday's events.

Rob Skelly, of the Edgewater Watersports Warehouse who is managing the event is busying finalising the plans for June, he said; "The Waterways Ireland Riverfest will bring watersports enthusiasts from all over the country to Coleraine and although the focus is on the River Bann, we are committed to attracting beginners and families to come and get a taste of how safe and exciting watersports can be and to enjoy the on shore activities at Christie Park.

"I am delighted that we have so many high profile names joining us on the water this year, we have also added in a 'come and try it' challenge which includes experiencing rowing, sailing and jet skiing. I would like to thank Waterways Ireland for sponsoring the event and Coleraine Borough Council for their unrivalled support".

Martin Dennany, Director of Marketing Communications, Waterways Ireland, added; "The Waterways Ireland Riverfest is an important festival on the Waterway Calendar and Waterways Ireland are delighted to support the event both to raise awareness of the beauty and diversity of the Lower Bann nationwide, but also to encourage local people to use the river as a wonderful recreation asset."

Mayor of Coleraine, Maurice Bradley addressed everyone launch, he said;
"I welcome Waterways Ireland representatives to Coleraine and on behalf of Coleraine Borough Council may I express my appreciation to both them and Rob Skelly for their dedication to this event. I look forward to working in partnership with Rob and Waterways Ireland for many years to come.

"It is a joy to see that this event focuses on families and I hope it brings out people from all over the Borough and further afield".

The Waterways Ireland Riverfest will take place from Christie Park, Coleraine on14th June from 11am to 11pm and 15th June from 1pm to 6pm, for more information see www.waterwaysirelandriverfest.co.uk

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Issued Thursday 22nd May 2008
For further information please contact Tara Cunningham, tel. +44 (0)7034 7042 or Denise Ward, tel. +44 (0) 7034 7082.

Ranked number one in Ireland for Bare footing, Andy McDonald displays his phenomenal talent on the Lower Bann at the official launch of the Waterways Ireland Riverfest.

Caite Skelly, Aged 8, showcasing her talent on the River Bann at the official launch of the Waterways Ireland Riverfest.

Mayor of Coleraine, Cllr Maurice Bradley; Katrina McGirr, Waterways Ireland; and Rob Skelly from the Edgewater Watersports Warehouse pictured with participants of the Waterways Ireland Riverfest.