Athenry Agricultural Show 2007

Welcomed Participants from the Four Corners

The Athenry Agricultural Show was a great success last Sunday, 2nd July 2007.

The poultry section, which was a newcomer this year, exceeded our expectations with 150 entrants of all breeds. Minister of state Michael Kitt and his son Brian visited the show and mingled with the crowd.

Ronan Kinneen, who captained Athenry EC. to three cups this year, The Premier League, Michael Byrne Cup and the Connacht Cup opened the show at 3p.m. In his speech he said that he felt privileged and honoured to be asked to open the 118th Athenry Agricultural show. It has obviously seen many changes over the years- changes in the area of agriculture, politics. and in life general. The present agricultural committee carries on this fine heritage.

Each year, the show attracts participants from the four corners of Ireland. The show hosts qualifiers in various sections. These qualifiers then go forward to compete at the appropriate final Show during July, August and September, for example at the RDS.

Of course, any event like this cannot happen without much work and time being put into it by a lot of people. The members of the committee selflessly meet throughout the year planning for the Show Day, adding new members and coming up with fresh ideas.

A large group of dedicated people turn up and help for a few days before, on show day and after show day, and without their help the success of the show would not be possible.

It goes without saying that for any organisation to continue to flourish it needs finances. Heartfelt recognition here is given to the committed and generous sponsors who, year in and year out, continue to support the show.

Finally. it would be a very quiet day without the presence of the people who supported the show on the day – people from the parish of Athenry and surrounding areas. They added a great buzz to the occasion.

Mary O’Keeffe, Secretary, Athenry Agricultural Show