Amputee councillor takes to the rowing machine for fundraiser

Amputee councillor Gabe Cronnolly has never allowed the loss of a limb to hinder his busy lifestyle – as he’s about to prove once again in a gut-busting fundraiser over the weekend.

In 2009, an accidental blast from a friend’s shotgun changed his life forever – but he has since learned to not just live with his disability, but to lead an active life.

And, always a keen sportsman, he has no problem in removing his prosthetic leg and settling in for a 30-minute rowing session at his home in Athenry.

“I’ve come across this brilliant sport for disabled rowers called Crewblu, part of Galway’s Tribesmen Rowing Club. I absolutely love it and the guidance of Peter and Sabrina Cassidy makes it really worthwhile,” he explained.

“There’s always something out there for everyone once you look. People with disabilities are great advocates for resilience and we should get more recognition for this,” he added.

Gabe Cronnelly and his wife Rae are participating in a fundraiser for Cúan Mhuire Addiction Treatment Centre, Coolarne, Athenry, where they hope to raise vital funds that will help to upgrade their admissions unit.

“Rae will be completing a half marathon by walking and I’ll be doing a virtual half marathon rowing. As soon as Covid restrictions allow, I will be hopefully on the Corrib rowing a real half-marathon. In the meantime, this machine isn’t any easier,” he laughed.

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