Exactly one month ago the UK storm season really kicked off with the fierce and mighty Desmond. There were indeed strong low pressures before Desmond, but this guy was the one to really kick up a fuss as the winds howled across the United Kingdom and into continental Europe. With great winds often comes a great swell and the waves gave Ireland a hammering that day, with it barely a soul stepping foot onto their windsurf gear. Yet we all know someone who would have, Mikey Clancy.

On this same day an old friend got in touch, Michael Clancy, father to the late and never forgotten Mikey Clancy. A gem in our hearts, Mikey, like far too many others in recent years, are greatly missed and our thoughts are with all those affected. Three years on and we pay our respects to the young and talented.

The wind howls outside our house in Dublin. “Storm Desmond” is raging and there is an eerie silence inside our house with nobody calling out ” Dad can we check Dolloymount out ” Mikey’s voice no longer to be heard.

This (last) year we walked along many of the beaches Mikey had windsurfed. Pozo was action packed as usual as the finals of the PWA were hotly contested, the lonely remote windswept Belmullet was stunningly beautiful and Donegal’s Magherorarty, where the Classic event took place in his name was fittingly poignant. Alas his spirit and now his ashes are there. Life moves on and we are constantly brought back to the thought… Mikeys beautiful life was a gift to his friends and his family that we treasure. Mikey brought a spirit and a kindness that was akin to a big storm to all our lives. From barely able to stand on a windsurf board at 15 years of age to a top 10 in the first round elimination in the PWA world championship just a few years later was a remarkable achievement. Storm Mikey has left its mark on us and as we remember him during his 3rd anniversary we know the huge funds raised in his name for the Sucide Charities Pieta House and Console by his many friends has saved lives. We miss him so much and we can always remind ourselves of his exploits by watching his many videos. Here is his last one he made at beaches all over his native Ireland .Enjoy it …he would have wanted you to!!! – Michael Clancy

Thanks to BOARDS Mag for giving our family Bernie, Michael and Sean a space on in the magazine to remember Mikey.

A final note…

We are all often reminded to constantly mind or look after our psychological health and to seek help when there are issues impacting on it. Seeking help from parents, doctors or friends is the first step and most important one on the road to recovery. Never be afraid to ask.

Michael Clancy.