Spirits were high as visitors poured on to the site from early morning and the day did not disappoint as there were a huge number of 75,500 attendees. This represents an increase of 9,250 on last year’s figure of 66,250.
With clear blue skies throughout the day, shoppers and agricultural enthusiasts joined celebrities and politicians to experience a great day out for all the family.
From farming to fashion, artisan foods to top-of-the range machinery & quality livestock all of the best of what Ireland has to offer was on display today for people of all interests to enjoy.
The highly anticipated prestigious Machine of the Year competition result was announced with congratulations going to the family run RT Sales Ltd, an innovative leader in the hedge cutting industry. The judges were extremely impressed with the strength of the entries in in this highly competitive contest.
Speaking at the end of Day One, Ms Anna May McHugh said “We are extremely pleased with the fantastic turnout today. The traffic flowed with ease thanks to the guard’s fantastic traffic management and visitor co-operation. Everywhere you looked people were smiling and enjoying themselves at a whole array of activities.”
President Michael D. Higgins officially launched the event paying tribute to Ms Anna May McHugh, the Gardaí, Laois County Council and the hundreds of volunteers and staff that are required to stage the event.
Tomorrow’s action-packed day includes Fashion Shows, Celebrity cookery demonstrations, Machinery Demos and 300 sheep are due to take part in a sheep shearing competition. One of the highlights will be the ‘Most Appropriately Dressed’ Lady & Gentleman competitions judged by influencers Holly Carpenter and Kieran Corrigan.
With all that is happening on site tomorrow & wonderful weather forecast again Ratheniska, Co Laois is the place to be for Day 2 of the National Ploughing Championships.
