Fermanagh oarsman Lloyd Seaman, formerly of Portora boat club, was a finalist at the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta on the River Thames at Henley on Sunday.

Competing for Tideway Scullers from London in the Wyford Challenge Cup, his crew were defeated by Sport Imperial in the exciting final.

Former Olympian Alan Campbell (of Tideway Scullers) was among the crowd of wellwishers including those from Co. Fermanagh, who were there to cheer on Lloyd and his fellow rowers who were competing in the Alan Campbell boat.

From an initial entry of 32 boats for the Wyford Challenge Cup, the crew of Tideway Scullers progressed to the final following the four’s success at heats during the week and then at Saturday’s semi final.

Speaking afterwards, Lloyd - who has raced at Henley twice before - said “it was an amazing experience”.

And he added that he is planning to win it next year.

Another local competitor at this year’s Henley Royal Regatta was Ryan Ballantine, formerly of Portora boat club, who competed in The Visitors’ Challenge Cup, also in a coxless four.

Meanwhile, a fundraising initiative organised by Enniskillen Royal Boat Club Parents’ Support Group gets underway this weekend. A Ladies’ Three Fermanagh Peaks Challenge takes place this Sunday, July 9, in a bid to raise money towards a Wintech International rowing boat for the J13 squad.

The challenge will take in Cuilcagh as the first leg, followed by Topped Mountain as the second leg, and finally Magho viewpoint.