Galway’s River Corrib was alive with excitement last weekend as over 150 crews from Ireland, UK, France, Germany, Italy, and the USA competed in the 2025 Tribesmen Head of the River (THOR), now firmly established as one of Europe’s premier early-season rowing events.
The competition, a 4.2km time trial along Galway’s iconic waterway, delivered thrilling racing, none more so than the U18 Men’s Eights. This featured a showdown between local schools Coláiste Iognáid (Jes), St. Joseph’s College (the Bish), and LaSalle College High School from Philadelphia. Against the backdrop of Menlo Castle, it was St. Joseph’s who triumphed in 11:45.2, narrowly edging Coláiste Iognáid by five seconds, with LaSalle just 0.7 seconds further back.
In the Women’s Masters Eights, an Irish composite crew from Neptune, Kilorglin, OCBC, and Tralee outpaced favourites from Endeavour USA and Monmouth UK, while the Men’s Masters Quad Scull saw Minneapolis Rowing Club (USA) edge Galway Rowing Club by just five seconds.
The day also showcased Galway’s youth talent, with Jes crews claiming both the Coxed and Coxless J18 Fours, while fun prizes like Best Dressed Crew went to LaSalle’s J18 Four and Galway Rowing Club’s Women’s J16 Eight.
The honour of being Boat One at the regatta (the first boat to race) was bestowed on LaSalle High School Philadelphia and was rowed as a tribute for Tribesmen founder, Billy Lawless. The crew was applauded the whole way down the course. The event also saw the inauguration of a new trophy, the BIlly Lawless Trophy for Fastest International Crew, and it was a fitting moment to see LaSalle claim it.
During the prize-giving, LaSalle’s Head Coach, Michael Brown, delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on the values that rowing instils:
"At LaSalle, one of the greatest lessons we teach our boys is to be a gentleman, on and off the water. It’s about respect, humility, and carrying yourself with grace. Though I didn’t know Billy Lawless personally, from the stories shared this weekend, I feel as though I do now. It’s clear Billy embodied those same values — a true gentleman — and it means a great deal to us that our crew rowed in his honour."
“This event is rapidly becoming one of Europe’s marquee rowing festivals,” said Colin Hanley, President of Tribesmen Rowing Club. “Crews from around the world now look forward to this weekend — not just for racing, but for the friendships and memories forged here in Galway. The economic impact is clear, with international visitors filling hotels, restaurants, and pubs throughout the city.”
With sights now set on next year’s event Pat Boyle, Regatta Chairman, had this to say. “2026 marks the 50th anniversary of Tribesmen Rowing Club. We’re planning something truly special to honour the past and inspire the future.”
The event was made possible through the sponsorship of Galway City Council and the support of local rowing clubs. The club would like to thank deputy mayor Neil McNelis for attending the prizegiving and the 143 volunteers who ensured everything ran seamlessly.
Full results and event photos are available at www.linktr.ee/TribesmenRC.
