ESB Canoe Club end of an era

The Dublin branch of the ESBCC has been inactive for several years, and the committee and members have decided to officially close down. Many club members have finally hung up their wetsuits, while others have continued paddling with other clubs.

ESB canoe club was started in the mid-1980s and operated as a "car boot club," with members travelling all over Ireland and abroad to compete in various national and international canoeing events, or to organised river or surfing trips. Events have ranged from the annual Liffey Descent (and ranking races), Alpine river trips in France, to national and Dublin canoe polo leagues. Some of the members distinguished themselves representing Ireland at the international level and claiming many league, individual, and team race wins in various classes. In the 1990s, ESBCC became one of the most prominent clubs in the Dublin and National canoe polo leagues, with over four teams competing simultaneously. Club members have also been active on the Irish Canoe Union committees and training courses since the start.

For many years, the club assisted in providing rescue at the ESB-sponsored Liffey Swim and Liffey Descent. Several beginners' courses were run for perspective new members or those wanting to try canoeing, and for socially disadvantaged youth groups, including some visiting children from Chernobyl. The club also assisted both ESB apprentices and non-ESB staff in pursuing the President's Award, many of whom achieved the Gold award. Thanks to all those that made ESBCC a canoeing and social success over the years.

Special thanks to Dave Carraher, the first club chairperson, for his tireless efforts in ensuring the safety and development of all around him, while still having a lot of fun. ESB Canoe Club has donated the remaining club funds of €1157.30 to Electric Aid to benefit a number of charitable causes.