Competitors are gearing up for a return to Screggan, Co. Offaly, as the National Ploughing Championships prepares to celebrate its 95th year.

Speaking to Agriland at the launch of next month's show, the assistant managing director of the National Ploughing Association (NPA), Anna Marie McHugh, said that she was "delighted" to return to Screggan for one more year, with next year's show set to be held a different location.

McHugh believes that the central location and road infrastructure around Screggan has helped to make it a successful venue - particularly as the site stood up to difficult weather conditions last year.

"We've had the worst of storms here and still the venue has worked," the NPA assistant managing director added.

She also highlighted that the show would not be possible without the support of local landowners, neighbours and NPA members.

Whats in store?

The showgrounds in 2026 will feature a number of new and returning attractions, with more exhibitors set to be added this year for machinery lovers.

With Ireland currently hosting the EU presidency, the show's assistant managing director hinted that there is also likely to be visitors from Brussels throughout the three-day event as well.

As usual farm leaders and numerous politicians will be out in force at the event with McHugh expecting "some good debates during ploughing week."

However she was keen to stress today that despite its size the ploughing championship competitions remain at the heart of the show.

At least five nations are expected to compete across the classes this year, with competitors travelling from far afield and close to home.

Croke Park

Among those preparing to compete at this year's championship is Eamonn Tracey from Co. Carlow, who is set to represent Ireland at the World Ploughing Championships in Croatia in two weeks time.

Tracey described the National Ploughing Championships as the pinnacle of the Irish ploughing calendar.

"This our Croke Park every year," he told Agriland.

Having previously competed at ploughing competitions internationally, Tracey believes the scale of the Irish championships is something other countries look on with "envy."

Visitors to Screggan will be able to see over 350 competitors in more than 30 classes, ranging from horse and vintage ploughing to junior and farmerette classes.

Tracey said that the event has fostered many friendships over the years which has developed into "a great little family".

However, he also warned that the friendly relationship is put aside once competition begins.

"It's a friendly rivalry," Tracey said.