Speaking to the Athlone Advertiser this week, Athlone Sub-Aqua PRO, Cormac Nott, detailed the present happenings within the volunteer organisation which provides a vital presence within the local community.
“This is the longest period which the club has not been on or in the water since it was formed back in 1972. Like so many organisations around the country we have been holding Zoom meetings to ensure matters operational remain during these unprecedented times.
“During this period of being off the water, we have enhanced our new website, updating pictures to our gallery or former members which will b e of most interest to those who had family members involved with Athlone Sub-Aqua Club previously. It is worth a view on www.athlonesubaqua.ie,” Cormac stated.
Cormac noted that water activity had resumed with club members “washing the cobwebs away and enjoying the local waterways, all the while figuring out new procedures for preparing and practicing social distancing measures”.
“As restrictions have eased, Athlone Sub-Aqua Clubs Search and Recovery Team were able to return to training while practicing social distancing.
“Usually, these training outings take place at least once a month over the winter but we have been patient in waiting to get back to the water. The team is made up of club members who volunteer to get special training working in dark/low visibility and dangerous conditions. These lines involve using divers underwater on a searchline while being guided around obstacles by surface snorkellors on a search rope.
“Due to COVID-19 restrictions on gatherings we had to split the training into two outings. This is nothing new for the group as when there is an active search we work with different sub-aqua clubs from throughout the Midlands region so when we get called upon, we are searching with different sub-aqua clubs all using the same techniques and standard procedures,” Cormac concluded.
