Cahore Inshore Rescue Service Launches "Cahore to Canada" Fundraiser to Support Lifeboat Operations

Sunday 14 June 2026

CAHORE, Co. Wexford – Volunteer lifeboat crews from Cahore Inshore Rescue Service (CIRS) are preparing for an ambitious community fundraising event this July as they undertake a 24-hour challenge designed to support the continued operation of their rescue vessel and lifesaving service.

The "Cahore to Canada" fundraiser will take place at Cahore Pier from 24–25 July and will see participants attempt to virtually travel the 3,380-kilometre distance between Cahore, Ireland, and Newfoundland, Canada, using rowing machines and exercise bikes over a continuous 24-hour period.

The event follows a highly successful fundraising campaign last year, during which the local community helped CIRS raise record-breaking funds towards the acquisition of a new rescue boat. Organisers say this year's campaign is focused on helping to keep that vessel operational and ensuring the service can continue responding to emergencies along the Wexford coastline.

As a volunteer-led maritime search and rescue organisation, CIRS relies heavily on public support to fund equipment, maintenance, training, fuel, and operational costs. Every launch and rescue undertaken by the service is made possible through the commitment of volunteers and the generosity of the communities they serve.

The 24-hour rowing and cycling challenge will begin at 3:00pm on 24 July and continue until 3:00pm on 25 July, with participants collectively recording the kilometres travelled in an effort to reach the equivalent distance to Newfoundland.

Alongside the endurance challenge, a number of community events have been organised to encourage local participation and support. A 5-kilometre Community Walk will depart from Cahore at 12 noon on 25 July, while visitors can also enjoy live music at The Strand Bar, a community barbecue, and family-friendly activities throughout the day.

Speaking about the fundraiser, organisers highlighted the importance of community support in maintaining an effective rescue capability on the coast.

"Every callout, every rescue, and every launch depends on the dedication of our volunteers and the support of the communities around us. This event is not only about raising funds, but also about bringing people together and recognising the role that community support plays in keeping our service operational."

Cahore Inshore Rescue Service provides a vital maritime emergency response capability in the region, assisting those in difficulty on the water and supporting wider search and rescue operations when required. The organisation remains entirely dependent on fundraising and donations to sustain its activities.

Members of the public are encouraged to take part in the rowing and cycling challenge, join the community walk, attend the entertainment events, or contribute through donations. Organisers also stress that simply sharing information about the fundraiser can make a valuable contribution to its success.

Donations can be made online through the event's fundraising page, with all proceeds supporting the ongoing operational needs of Cahore Inshore Rescue Service and helping ensure that its volunteer crews remain ready to respond whenever the call for help comes.

Event Details

Cahore to Canada Fundraiser

• Dates: 24–25 July

• Location: Cahore Pier, Co. Wexford

• 24-Hour Rowing and Cycling Challenge

• 5km Community Walk (12 noon, 25 July)

• Live Music at The Strand Bar

• Community Barbecue and Family Activities

• Virtual Distance Goal: 3,380km (Cahore to Newfoundland, Canada)

All funds raised will support the continued operation of Cahore Inshore Rescue Service and its volunteer lifesaving crews.