The trials, which are also supported by FBD and Kepac, will be the biggest agricultural event to be held in Connacht this year and will feature competitors from Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales. Teams of 15 competitors will take part in qualifying events on Friday and Saturday, with the Supreme Champion event taking place on Sunday afternoon.
The event alternates between the four countries involved and this is the first time ever that the International Trials have been held in Connacht. 90 acres of the Hanley Family Farm in Kilbegnet, Creggs, will provide the backdrop for the event, which it is expected will attract 20,000 visitors. Free on-site parking for 2,500 cars will be available and event organisers have liaised closely with local Gardaí in terms of traffic plans for the event.
The event launch took place on Friday 8th August at Cuisle, Donamon, Co. Roscommon. Richard Kennedy, Technical and Marketing Director for Devenish Nutrition told guests at the launch “We are absolutely delighted to be the sponsoring the International Sheep Dog Trials. It provides the perfect opportunity to showcase to a wide audience many of the aspects of country living that are so important to the local and wider communities and economy.”
Entrance to the event is free for children under 16 and it is anticipated that many local schools will take the opportunity of visiting the event on Friday 12th September. The event is a family event, with fun-filled attractions for children and arts and crafts displays and other displays for adults. Trade displays and displays of local produce will also aim to showcase locally produced artisan food.
Of course, all eyes will be on the trial fields, with competitions getting underway each day at 8 am sharp and running to 6 pm. While the competitors will hail from Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales, thousands of international visitors are also expected to attend, including sheepdog trialling enthusiasts from Austria, Japan and Australia.
An event not to be missed, make sure to put it in your diary.
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