Viking Boat Race - Press Room

Anyone interested in helping with the organisation of next year's Viking boat races, five mile challenge run or get involved with the Killyleagh Social Partnership, is asked to contact Mr.  Huddleston, telephone (028) 4482 8114.

If there is anyone who feels they can help by providing the sponsorship, whatever the size - contact Tony Davies - (028) 4482 1461 or email killyboat@focused.ie

 

King Magnus Barelegs is fast approaching - join in the fun!

Mourne Observer , Wednesday 25th May, 2005

The countdown to the Magnus Barelegs Festival has began in earnest as the people of Down District and further afield prepare to get their helmats, shields and swords to the ready!

This year's fifth annual festival, organised by Down District Council, in association with the Killyleagh Social Partnership this year, will be the biggest and best celebration yet to mark the life and times of the area's very own Viking King and Warrior, Magnus Barelegs!

The festival has a packed programme of uniquely themed Viking events that programme that promise to be of interest to all. A the only one of its kind in Northern Ireland, the Magnus Barelegs Viking Festival has a lot to live up to mark, in real Viking style, the passing of Magnus Barelegs.

According to Down Council marketing manager Veronica Keegan: " The programme of events for this year's festival really does guarantee wide appeal. The Viking Invastion will take place at Delamont Country Park, Killyleagh, on Saturday, 28 May, on a site that naturally lends itself to staging such a large scale event.

Fans of the Vikings will be impressed with the skills of the re-enactors, the Viking longships, the funeral procession, the boat burning ceremony and, of course, the most exciting part of the day, the main invasion of the site by the plunders!

Falconry

But there will be much to do besides, including plenty of fun for all wannabe junior Vikings with arts and crafts, archery, falconry displays, family games with the Caterpillar and the Rollin Roc Climbing Tower.

There are a number of other key events taking place throughout the four days of the festival including Viking Verses and Irish Pints on Thursday, 26 May in Mullan's Bar, Downpatrick, entertainment and a barbecue in Ringdufferin Golf Club on Friday, 27 May, and King Magnus' Viking Banquet at 8pm in Killyleagh Football Club.

The funf and entertainment continues right through until Sunday, 29 May with the town parade in Killyleagh, commencing at 2pm and departing from the High School premises.

Over 250 competitors taking part in the lonboat races will proceed through the town, marking their to Kilyleagh Harbour to participate in the International Longboat Races, which kick-off at 3pm. Local artists will also be on hand in Hans Sloan Square.