Emergency services called to Mayo lake after boat capsizes with an estimated 20 on board

The emergency services were called to Lough Lannagh, Castlebar, this morning after a dragon boat, with an estimated 20 people onboard, capsized.

The good news is all those on board got safely ashore after an experience they will never forget.

The incident occurred during an open event held by Castlebar's Gráine Mhaol Dragon Boat Club for new and aspiring members

Shortly before 11.15 a.m., the craft overturned while attempting to change direction in the windy conditions.

Most of the crew. wearing lifejackets, stayed with the boat while a number swam ashore.

There was no evident sense of initial panic as passers-by were left with the impression that a training exercise was taking place.

But it swiftly became apparent that it was a serious situation and urgent calls were made to the emergency services by concerned members of the public

However, those who had fallen from the craft into the water remained remarkably calm and succeeded in getting ashore safety, albeit left very cold and wet.

Members of the public, including volunteers of the Castlebar Community Clean-Up Group and Councillor Blackie Gavin, helped them out of the water before the assistance of the members of emergency services was required.

Councillor Gavin said it was a traumatic experience for those on the boat but, thankfully, they all got safety off the lake.

He stated: "All those involved displayed tremendous bravery and calmness in a very challenging situation.

"It was frightening as the drama unfolded but the important things is that everyone got home safety."

The dragon boat, filled with water, has been left tied on the shoreline.

In a comment on The Connaught Telegraph Facebook page, Louise Rodgers, a member of the Gráine Mhaol Dragon Boat Club, stated: "Many thanks to the emergency services - Coast Guard , Gardaí and Fire Crew, that came very promptly to our capsize today.

"Many thanks to the participants, the crew on board were fantastic, took it all in their stride and calmly kicked their way back to shore.

"Many thanks to Councillor Blackie Gavin and his crew for helping us get to land, even wading in getting as wet as we were.

Many thanks to Noel Cribbin from Ballina for taking charge and getting people to shore.

"Many thanks to our fantastic helm Adrienn Hártó for remaining cool and directing everyone.

"Many thanks to Lough Lannagh Holiday Village for providing shelter, hot drinks and recovery space.

"Finally many thanks to the ambulance service and the Mayo University Hospital for the care that they gave afterwards.

"We are deeply indebted to all for the help we received today, we do our annual controlled capsize in April but we have it sorted now.... a bit colder than normal but that's it done and dusted.

"The wind was NOT a factor today, we do watch the weather and we are well trained for these events."