Kerry oarswoman Monika Dukarska, a PhD researcher at Munster Technological University, has won the gold medal at the World Coastal Rowing Championships in Genoa, Italy.
Racing in the Coastal Women’s Solo final, she clinched the top spot with an impressive time of 20:39.51.
The 34-year-old Killorglin-based rower said she is “absolutely thrilled” to win the title for a second year in a row.
It is her fifth world championship gold and ninth medal overall since she began coastal rowing in 2008.
“This year’s championship was particularly unpredictable and challenging, with the location and weather playing a major role.
“My heat on Saturday was incredibly tough. The waves were large, making it difficult to control the boat. I anticipated slightly better conditions for the final but I knew I’d have to work hard to battle the waves, especially with the course consisting of eight turning points,” she said.
Picture: Benedict Tufnell
During the race, Monika found herself in second place, working hard to close the gap with Dymchenko of Azerbaijan. Midway through the race, Dymchenko incorrectly rounded one of the buoys, which led to her automatic disqualification.
Until Monika reached the beach, she thought she had finished second and was content with that given the challenges of balancing her PhD, work and training over the last year.
“When I reached the beach, everyone was congratulating me, telling me I’d won. I was absolutely thrilled,” she said.
Monika said Coastal rowing is all about navigating an open sea course, where the competitor face whatever challenges Mother Nature throws up.
“That’s my favourite part of this sport – the combination of physical effort, mental toughness, bravery, stamina, course knowledge and the strategic thinking required to succeed.
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported and enabled me to compete and defend my title. It’s truly a team effort,” Monika said.
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