An Cosantóir

| 37 www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 37 compete at a higher faster, fitter level than ever experienced. The goal setting for the 2026/27 season involves more Rowing Ireland regattas, and a summer camp next summer in preparation for the Head of Charles river race in Boston in Oct 2027. For now as we move into the off-season, the focus shifts to recovery, reflection, and preparation for what promises to be an even more successful year ahead full of blisters, sweat, sometimes almost tears but most important unity where the one goal is to develop our club into one of the biggest and best sports club in the Defence Forces. Here's to pushing harder, rowing stronger, and more controlled aggression in the pain cave that is rowing in the season to come. Thank You A heartfelt thank you goes to our dedicated coaches, volunteers, without your passion and tireless contributions, none of this would be possible. To our athletes—your resilience, determination, and team spirit define who we are as a club. Every stroke, early morning, and blister was worth it and there was a lot of blisters! If you are a member of the Defence Forces and rowing is a sport you have thought about trying or might just have wondered what it feels like to sit in an Olympic racing standard boat and race in a pressure environment or perhaps you just want to hop in a boat and enjoy the experience of it in a social capacity, then perhaps you should come along to our next camp or feel free to reach out dave. williams@defenceforces.ie or Robert.diffley@defenceforces.ie for further information. DF MOUNTAINEERING Over the past two months, the Defence Forces Adventure Management (DFAM) team has been heavily involved in supporting a wide range of courses and adventure activities across the Defence Forces. A standout event included DFAM members expertly setting up a major abseil on Mahon Falls in the Comeragh Mountains to support the General Officer Commanding's (GOC) Challenge in 1 Brigade. After two demanding days packed with diverse stands and activities, troops tackled the spectacular 200-metre abseil down the steep gully — a true highlight that tested nerve, skill, and teamwork in one of Ireland's most dramatic natural settings. Looking Ahead This year's events included a Basic Rock- Climbing course taking place at Dalkey Quarry. On successful completion, students will be eligible to apply for the CTI course starting in September. Anyone interested in finding out more about DFAM can contact Treasurerdfam@gmail. com for details on how to join and information on upcoming courses. Alternatively, keep an eye out for future basic rock climbing and mountaineering courses. DF Rugby The month of May saw another international tournament for DF Rugby, with both the Men and Women's teams travelling to Agen, France to play in the 3rd International CISM Sevens Challenge. The weekend was jammed packed with competition as the Men faced off against USA, South Africa, Spain & the Netherlands, while the women took to the field against Soth Africa, USA, France & Spain eventually finishing in a very competitive 4th place.

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