Former Leinster Rugby player Damian Browne became the first person ever to row from New York to Galway after spending 112 days at sea.
The 42-year-old and his vessel Cushlamachree made it to Furbo Beach during the early hours of this morning, but could not travel to his intended destination of the Port of Galway due to weather conditions. Browne was forced ashore on the rocks at around 1am and contacted Chris Martin, the Project Empower land support officer, who then called the relevant emergency services.
First responders Garda Micheál Ó Ráinne, Garda Vincent Kelly, and Garda Eoin O’Malley rushed to the beach and successfully helped Browne to safety. The Galway native is now reunited with his family and will celebrate his incredible achievement today.
