I am proposing meeting at Dunloughan not far from Ballyconneely at 10am on the Saturday morning (7th August). Grid Reference is 579 457 and for those that know the area it is the more sheltered beach just a couple of hundred metres south of what is marked as False Bay on the discovery map. (False Bay is one of the few surf spots in the area so bring your surf gear if you have space in the car). I have made an attempt at marking it on Google maps, not sure how successfully but you can try by clicking on:
http://maps.google.ie/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=h&msa=0&msid=106474084475636735725.00048bd80f42ee1cf3c 34&ll=53.428253,-10.094376&spn=0.057584,0.181789&z=13
This is a location where wild camping has traditionally been tolerated but given the strong debate elsewhere on the bulletin board I would ask people to make up their own minds on this and to act responsibly. I noticed some mention of an ISKA loo tent elsewhere so if someone wants to volunteer to project manage that operation it would be very much appreciated. As part of an effort to ensure we are welcome back again I am suggesting that everyone who comes to camp brings an extra rubbish bag and brings it home complete with rubbish collected from the beach on Sunday.
For those not keen on camping there is an endless array of Hotels, B&B’s etc in the area between Roundstone and Clifden.
The nearest shop and pub is in Ballyconneely so stock up on all you need on the way through including water as there is no fresh water nearby.
Above all the only time I have seen locals get upset out here is when people arrive with dogs so sorry but no dogs this weekend. This is sheep grazing land so I can understand why the farmers might get annoyed.
Paddling options for the weekend will depend on the weather and the general ability and number of people. Given perfect conditions Slyne head is possible but realistically this is more likely to be one for a peer group of level 4 types who don’t mind a swell or a rough landing. There are plenty of other options for less challenging trips and also the option of surf or a sea kayak handling session in surf for those who feel like getting properly wet.
See you there
Jamie
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Re:Ballyconeely 7th & 8th August
Date: 2010/07/29 22:06
By: JamieD
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One clarification required.
Despite paddling to a reasonably high level and having a number of years experience I do not have any formal instructorship or leader qualifications. This trip will therefore be on a peer group basis. Please do not expect instruction or coaching, I will co-rdinate things and count people onto and off the water but after that you will be paddling with a group of friends, Please remember to bring your tow rope and other safety equipment and be prepared to look out for one another.
Any queries please feel free to contact me on jamiedonaldateircomdotnet or oeight79eight9192o
Regards
Jamie
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Re:Ballyconeely 7th & 8th August
Date: 2010/07/30 09:45
By: Maurice
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Mo will go!!
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Re:Ballyconeely 7th & 8th August
Date: 2010/08/06 12:34
By: JamieD
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Hi All
Going ahead as per previous posts.
Weather a bit damp here in Galway at the moment but looks set to improve over the weekend.
See you there bright and early.
Jamie
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Re:Ballyconeely 7th & 8th August
Date: 2010/08/08 16:35
By: brianmacmahon
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Hey Jamie,
Thanks a million for organising meet at Ballyconnelly. I enjoyed it very much, great weather apart from the NNW F4. Great company and amazing scenery. What more could you want !!!!
Thanks again. Mac
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Re:Ballyconeely 7th & 8th August
Date: 2010/08/08 21:49
By: conorsmith
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A spectacular location and a super weekend, well done and thanks again Jamie.
A short break on Strawbeach Isl just outside Bunowen Bay.
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