IN DOUBT…The Portora preparations for Saturday’s Head of the River may be in vain
Having run successfully for over 50 years the Erne Head of the River, due to take place this Saturday, March 1 is in serious doubt.
A risk assessment was carried out today (Monday) after the significant rainfall over the weekend left the River Erne in flood.
According to Head of Rowing at Portora, Derek Holland the main dangers are the West Bridge in Enniskillen town and the Killyhevlin Hotel straight, where water is flowing over the fields.
A further risk assessment will be carried out on Wednesday and in a statement released today by Mr Holland he revealed the event, which has been running since 1957 will not go ahead unless he deems the water is safe.
“If by Wednesday the water has not dropped sufficiently I will be calling the Head of River off for 2014 and will inform everyone by Thursday morning. This will be the first time in 57 years the Erne Head has not taken place due to the safety concerns of the athletes and volunteers out on the water.
“However, if the river does drop to a safe level I will be running the Head for what I judge to be safe competant crews only and I will run the Head to a strict new entry list. “I will keep all clubs up to date in the next 48-72 hours.”
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