One of the best shows in years

We were absolutely blessed with a glorious day on Monday last, August 7, for the North Tipperary Agricultural Show, writes Show Chairman, Brendan Murphy.

On a day, which has been typically wet over the years, it was nice to see the sun shining over the thousands of people that came to this year’s event.

From the moment the gates opened to the public at 10am the crowds of people just poured in and it was absolutely fantastic to see the joy and happiness on the faces of both young and old as they ventured around the showgrounds to see what was on display for the day.

Once they entered the gates, spectators were treated to an amazing display of 387 Classic and Vintage vehicles, which dated from the early 1930s right up to the 2000s; there was also a lineup of vintage tractors on display, which the committee hopes to build on for future shows.

INCREASE IN ENTRIES

This year’s show had seen an increase in entries in the cattle classes. The cattle area was filled with some amazing animals from all over the country, with their owners standing with pride hoping to take home some silverware. Sheep classes were also held in the top area of the field and had some strong entries in various classes.

There was a big variety of stands at the show, everything from arts and crafts to food stalls, to the local walking club and much more.

The standout attraction for me and many others was Wooly Pet Farm from Moneygall. The minute the owners set up their stall it quickly became surrounded by crowds of people as they all wanted to see the amazing animals on display, from small baby rabbits to alpacas and lamas. It really made for quite a spectacle, and for many, made the show that extra bit special.

ON STAGE

This

year’s onstage entertainment went down a treat as the crowds of spectators were treated to Colin Kenny and Dee Morrissey in the morning, followed by the incredible voice of Tex Deegan. And then in the afternoon the amazing Glór Tíre winner of 2022, Aishling Rafferty, took to the stage from 2pm to 4pm to conclude our session of country music. The crowds really enjoyed the music and at one point I saw some people dancing on the grass – a hint to us committee members that a dance floor is a must for next year’s show. The Nenagh Brass Band played out the evening, which set a nice relaxing atmosphere as the day’s proceedings came to a close

The horticultural tent was a hive of activity as entries were extremely strong in all classes and categories this year, with the addition of craft beer and honey classes proving to have been a great addition.

The absence of showjumping was disappointing but certainly did not take from the day as the working hunter classes and pony classes filled the lower end of the field and put on a great show for the many onlookers.

DOG SHOW

The ever popular dog show was a highlight for many. I can’t remember the last time we had so many entries, it was absolutely fantastic. There were so many different breeds of dogs. It was so nice to see, and it was evident that these animals were so well minded and looked after; it is a credit to their owners, and the same could be said about all the animals on display.

The atmosphere was absolutely amazing from the minute you walked through the gates on Monday last, from the display of cars, to the animals, the stalls to the beautiful music from our live bands.

The sunshine was the cherry on the cake, and I am so delighted that everyone enjoyed the day. But more so, I am delighted for the committee who gave up their time in the months, weeks and days preparing for this year’s show - all their hard work had paid off.

What most people don’t realise is the committee that organise, plan and run this show are all volunteers and for me they are the real heroes of the North Tipperary Agricultural Show. This amazing group of people have sweated blood and tears to ensure that the show ran smoothly and I am proud to have worked alongside them over the last number of years as Chairperson of one of Ireland’s oldest and best shows.

I would like to thank everyone who supported this year’s show from everyone who attended, sponsored and took part and the amazing committee members. As my tenure of Chairperson draws to the end, I can say without hesitation it was an absolute honour. In the words of PT Barnum - The Greatest Showman - “The Show must go on”.