The picturesque village of Tinahely in south Co. Wicklow plays host to its 82nd Agricultural Show tomorrow (bank holiday Monday).
Over 20,000 people are expected to enjoy the celebration of rural life. Culture and competition, entertainment and exhibitions, fashion and food – these are all part of the programme.
Chairman, George Steacy, whose farm on the Wexford/Wicklow border incorporates suckler cows, pedigree Parthenaise, cereals and forestry, said the show is a community-driven project, with a strong committee that strives to innovate.
Heading this year’s entertainment bill will be: Derek Ryan and his band; Louise Morrissey; Theresa and the Stars; and After Dark.
A big draw in the cattle section will be the €4,000 FBD Belgian Blue Championships. The Irish Pedigree Belgian Blue Calf Championship and Belgian Blue Crossbred Finals have attracted entries from throughout the country.
The commercial cattle section has developed tremendously in the last few years, according to the Show Society.
The highlight is The Darcy Sands Commercial Championship, which offers a prize of €2,500 for the best beef bullock or non-pedigree beef heifer of any age and breed.
The late Derek Rothwell, former Chairman of Tinahely Show and the ISA (Irish Shows Association), advocated the need to involve young people in all aspects of agricultural shows.
In his memory, and fulfilling his wishes, Tinahely Show is hosting this championship for the benefit of young exhibitors. The aim is to encourage involvement in shows and promote the showing of animals by the ‘exhibitors of the future’.
Wicklow’s sheep tradition will be evident with a range of classes including: Cheviot; Jacob; Charollais; Lleyn; Texel; Zwartbles and Rouge De L’ouest. The crossbred classes are expected to attract keen interest from sheep farmers.
The Connelly’s Red Mills Two-Year-Old Horse All-Ireland Final is set to be a key equestrian event.
The Red Mills Non-Thoroughbred Colt/Gelding Two-Year-Old All-Ireland Championship offers a prize fund of €3,000. Horse show jumping will commence at 10:00am in the main arena.
Pony show jumping competitions for newcomers and unregistered ponies will take place at 9:30am. Entries will be taken on the field, with rosettes and prizes for the winners. The Phelan Cup will also be presented in this arena.
Pony Club games with teams of five, will be held in Fairwood Park.
The Home Industries display creates an air of tension between competitors from throughout the country to compare standards and skills. Photography and art are among the categories.
A quilt marquee will showcase the skill that goes into making quilts.
There will also be a ‘World of Wool’ with spinning demonstrations, weavers, and the addition of yarn and raw fleece classes, along with sheep shearing.
The IFA Food Hall will display the cream of local artisan food producers.
The craft village has expanded this year, due to demand, and will display handmade baskets, art, jewellery and other creations.
Vintage enthusiasts will enjoy the line-up of cars, tractors and machinery. There will also be a Trials Ireland Bike Spectacular, with a motorcycle stunt and agility display.
The sheaf tossing competition is hugely popular, with competitors travelling from around the country in the hope of setting a new world record.
The dog show will kick off at 2:00pm and canines can be entered on the field. There will also be dog and pig agility displays.
Young children particularly enjoy the pets’ corner. There are five categories, including for the newest and most unusual pet.
The court stage will see activities including: a baby show; junior competitions; and a best dressed lady contest. There will also be a fun fair and entertainment by Comhaltas and Irish dancers.
Gates open on show day from 8:00am to 6:00pm.