Christian Radich and Sørlandet in Ireland |
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| Written by: Brian Guckian, Dublin, Ireland | Date: 30.07.2011 |
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Christian Radich in Waterford, Ireland. Image by Brian GuckianWaterford is a small city in the south-east of Ireland and was founded by Viking settlers in 914AD. It has a long maritime history and remains an important port to this day. On July 1st 2011, your correspondent embarked on a pleasant train journey from Dublin and arrived mid-morning amid huge crowds and carnival scenes. In fact the train was held outside the station for a while to allow additional trains ahead to disgorge their passengers. Main roads into the city had been closed to traffic and the city centre was thronged with visitors enjoying the various festivities laid on as part of this stage of the 2011 Tall Ships Race. The ample quayside facilities in Waterford allow ships to berth right up to the bridge connecting the north and south sides of the city, so this gave easy access to the magnificent ships on display. I had never seen the famous star of "Windjammer"*, the Christian Radich, close up before (though the Cinemiracle process arguably almost achieves that!), and was suitably in awe. There is something magical and romantic about such graceful, beautifully-wrought vessels. |
More in 70mm reading: "Windjammer" in Cinemiracle Composer Sven-Erik Libaek interviewed Movie Star Visits Copenhagen |
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ship Sørlandet in Waterford, Ireland. Image by Brian GuckianIt was hard to believe the Christian Radich is just short of 75 years old, so well is it maintained and looked after. People were making the most of the opportunity to tour this and other ships. A little further along, the equally-impressive Sørlandet was also moored, with a similar colourful display of pennants on its intricate rigging. One would never know it was ten years older again than the Christian Radich! The Sørlandet also featured centre stage on the cover of one of the main local newpapers published that week. These vessels, like the race itself, are captivating and appealing symbols of tolerance, teaching and understanding. The Tall Ships festival lasted four days and was a very big draw for families across the region and beyond. There were dozens of stalls selling locally-produced food and drink, music, performances and many activities organised for both young and old alike. It was a pity that the weather was poor on the day I visited, although it did improve in the evening. A special late train had been organised for those returning to Dublin, which gave more time for daytrippers. *The spectacular film is soon to be available on DVD and Blu-Ray |
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