J. D. Murphy
This weekend Queen’s rowing learnt of the passing of the late Donall Murphy, former oarsman and coach of QUBBC. Donall will be sadly missed by many rowers past and present. Whilst studying Law at Queen’s University, he served as Captain in the 1950s when Queen’s were a formidable force in Irish Rowing. All the while Donall managed to edit the University’s student magazine, The Gown. After leaving university Donall worked as a solicitor in Belfast. He maintained strong links with the club throughout his working career, serving as head-coach in spells throughout the 70s, 80s and 90s. He also served as Captain and Secretary for Lady Victoria Boat Club, and was responsible for opening membership of LVBC to all past-rowers (not just past Captains and Blues recipients).
As a coach, Donall guided Queen’s to their best performance at Henley, when they reached the final of the Ladies’ Challenge Plate 1976. He was also key in delivering the Novice VIII Irish Championship of 1990, and the Intermediate IV in 1991. He was active in the 90s at BRC, when the club had success at Henley. Donall’s pride in Queen’s Rowing was unrivalled. He was influential in shaping the modern Queen’s Rowing set-up and despite ill-health, he remained an avid supporter of the club up to the current season. In the words of Ricky Caruth (LVBC President), “He was a fantastic eccentric, renowned for his personality and charm, and who brought the best out of everyone.” Although he will be greatly missed, his legacy still lives strong. Queen’s sends our condolence to the Murphy family.
Donall’s funeral will take place tomorrow, 12:00, Tuesday 2nd March 2010, St Brigid’s Catholic Church, Derryvolgie Avenue, Belfast.
Lagan HOR 2010
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Welcome to Queen's University Rowing..
The past year has seen the Men’s and Women’s Clubs flourish, thanks to the enthusiasm and dedication of the rowers, coaches and alumni. Under the guidance of our full time professional coach, Mark Fangen-Hall, we have achieved much success at home and abroad.
The men’s club currently hold the title of Irish National and University Champions in the Novice and Intermediate VIII categories. The senior boat placed 17th out of 420 in London Head of the River and equalled the Temple Challenge Cup record to the barrier in Henley Royal Regatta. Likewise the women’s crews have performed very well and their achievements include Irish University Champions in the Novice VIII, Silver in the British University Championships Intermediate VIII and winners of the Senior University Boat Race.
Queen’s University is an exceptional location for rowing. The River Lagan is right on our doorstep which provides a 4km stretch of relatively sheltered water. In addition we have a world class Physical Education Centre on campus with cutting edge land training equipment.
As well as being highly competitive, the boat club has a strong social aspect to it. We believe the student experience should be about achieving your full potential academically and in sport while making friendships that last a lifetime.
As Captains for the year ahead, we aim to build on the success of the past year and look forward to the challenge of taking our club to the next level.
It's an exciting time for Queen's Rowing and we hope that you will be a part of it!
Regards,
Zoe Patterson and James Graham
Queen's Rowing ladies and men's captains 2009/2010