Missing Kitesufer Turns Up Safe In Clare

Picture © Pat Flynn

A kitesurfer reported missing and feared drowned off Kerry yesterday has been located in Co Clare.

A major land, air and sea search was launched after the man was reported missing off Ballybunnion.

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The kitesurfer, who last seen around 4 o’clock yesterday afternoon off Ballybunnion, was reported missing after he failed to return to shore.

A major multi-agency operation, involving the Shannon-based search and rescue helicopter, Rescue 115, the Ballybunnion unit of the Irish Coast Guard, and the Fenit RNLI lifeboat was launched at around 5pm.

The Irish Naval vessel LÉ Niamh, which was nearby at the time, was also requested to assist in the search, as well as the Kilrush RNLI lifeboat.

The kitesurfer later made his way ashore in Kilkee late last night, where he met a member of the public who alerted gardaí and the ambulance service.

The man was taken to University Hospital Limerick for treatment following his 7-hour ordeal.