News & Media

News

Ploughing Championships 2025 Venue Confirmed - The National Ploughing Association today confirmed Screggan, Tullamore, Co. Offaly as the venue for the 2025 National Ploughing Championships on 16th, 17th, 18th September. The Ploughing was held on the same farm in 2016-2017-2018 hosted by Joe Grogan, RIP – his wife Lisa Flaherty Grogan will host the 2025 event with additional lands being made available for ploughing and parking from many neighbouring farmers. The 3 day event is set to bring millions into the local economy mainly through the… .... Read More

Sun beginning to set as such a successful ‘Ploughing’ draws to a close. - As the traffic flows from the car parks here this evening in Ratheniska, Co Laois the total attendance figure for the 93RD National Ploughing Championships came to a massive 244,000 over the 3 days, with a huge increase of 43,450 visitors when compared to last year. Exhibitors and visitors alike thoroughly enjoying themselves in the glorious weather with all that was on offer. NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said, “The overall mood for this year’s Ploughing has been incredibly… .... Read More

90,500 visitors attended day 2 of the National Ploughing Championships - Today 90,500 visitors passed through the gates of this year’s ‘Ploughing’ in Ratheniska, Co Laois. This brings the total attendance so far this week to 166,000 over the first two days. Speaking this evening, NPA Managing Director Ms Anna May McHugh said “We expected large crowds again today given the glorious weather & great feedback received yesterday.” In the afternoon, the ever popular Most Appropriately Dressed Lady & Gentleman Competitions were hotly contested in the dedicated Fashion Show Marquee. Anne… .... Read More

#Ploughing2024 roars into life as the sun beams down on the site in Ratheniska. - 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… .... Read More

Great excitement as only days to go until ‘Ploughing’. - With less than two weeks until one of Europe’s largest outdoor events, preparations in Ratheniska, Co Laois are seriously taking shape as this green field in the middle of Ireland transforms into the bustling hub that will become #Ploughing2024 taking place on September 17th, 18th & 19th. At today’s official launch, the media & special guests were given a sneak peek preview of what to expect as they were entertained by local performers from Laois while prize-winning animals, quality machines,… .... Read More

The Ploughing & FBD: Keeping You Safe wristband initiative set to return again due to its huge success in previous years. - The Ploughing and FBD: Keeping You Safe child safety wristband project will be an important feature again at this year’s National Ploughing Championships, which will take place in Raheniska, Co Laois on September 17th, 18th & 19th. Over 40,000 of the safety wristbands will be handed-out at all of the event entrances, which will allow for a contact phone number to be written on the band in case the wearer wanders off amidst the large gathering. NPA Managing Director Anna… .... Read More

Rep. of Ireland team triumph once again at the 69th World Ploughing Contest. - Congratulations are pouring in from all over the country and across the globe on this historic occasion as the Republic of Ireland Ploughing team had an outstanding performance to seize victory at the 69th World Ploughing Contest in Estonia. Eamonn Tracey from Carlow was crowned Supreme World Ploughing Champion (his third in a row) in the Conventional Class & West Cork man Jer Coakley stormed to victory as Reversible World Ploughing Champion. Managing Director of the National Ploughing Association Anna… .... Read More

SMALL BUSINESSES SET TO SHINE AT THE LOCAL ENTERPRISE VILLAGE FOR THIS YEAR’S PLOUGHING - Over 30 small businesses from across the country will get the opportunity to showcase themselves to almost 300,000 visitors at the National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, County Laois. The Local Enterprise Village, an initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices, will be located at the heart of this year’s National Ploughing Championships from the 17th to 19th September. It will showcase the best of Irish entrepreneurship featuring small businesses selling everything from Mexican salsa and chemical free fertilisers to high… .... Read More

Certa to fuel this year’s ‘Ploughing’ as all roads lead to Laois in September - Spot a ‘Certa ‘billboard road sign and win tickets to this year’s National Ploughing ChampionshipsNPA are delighted to announce that Certa will again be the official fuel sponsor for this year’s National Ploughing Championships & European Vintage Contest taking place in Ratheniska, Co Laois on September 17th, 18th & 19th. Celebrating the return of this successful partnership, over one hundred promotional road sign billboards have been installed at key locations throughout the country. To be in with a chance to win… .... Read More

Euronics is announced as the new sponsor of the National Brown Bread Baking Competition 2024 - Final to take place on 19th September at National Ploughing Championships, Ratheniska, Co. Laois Winner to take home a cash prize of €5000 PLUS a NEFF Slide & Hide oven (RRP €2,019) Today (Thursday, 16th May) Euronics was unveiled as the new sponsor of the National Brown Bread Baking Competition, in association with the National Ploughing Association (NPA) and the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA). Brown bread is a quintessentially Irish product found in most of the homes around the country.… .... Read More

Entries are now open for Enterprise Ireland’s Innovation Arena Awards at the National Ploughing Championships - · €10,000 prize for best start-up winner amongst the awards in this year’s competition· Applications open for this year’s Innovation Arena awards until 7th June· Return of the ‘Agritech Hub’ at the Innovation Arena, a key exhibition platform at one of Europe’s largest outdoor eventsEnterprise Ireland’s Innovation Arena Awards will return to the 2024 National Ploughing Championships (NPC), and the competition is now open for entries.The Innovation Arena, which is hosted in partnership with the National Ploughing Association (NPA), is… .... Read More

Labour of loaf! Mayo woman’s award-winning brown bread to hit ALDI shelves nationwide - Loretta McGuire’s incredible brown bread on sale in 161 ALDI stores nationwide from January 22nd Loretta was crowned winner of National Brown Bread Baking Competition at last year’s National Ploughing Championships, taking home €15,000 Loretta McGuire from Co. Mayo, the winner of the 2023 National Brown Baking Competition sponsored by ALDI in association with the National Ploughing Association and the Irish Countrywomen’s Association, will see her award-winning brown bread go on sale in 161 ALDI stores nationwide for a 12-month… .... Read More

Ploughing News 2023

The 93rd National Ploughing Championships will take place in Ratheniska, Co. Laois in 2024 - Europe’s largest outdoor event, “The National Ploughing Championships” is set to return next year to the central and scenic location of Ratheniska, Co Laois from September 17th to 19th for the third year in a row. The well-liked site was confirmed as an excellent location for next year’s event at the National Ploughing Championships prize-giving ceremony attended by over 500 in Portlaoise. Speaking after the announcement the NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “The NPA are delighted to be… .... Read More

Sun shines on the final day of this year’s National Ploughing Championships - As the sun sets and the traffic flows from the car parks this evening, the total attendance figure for the 2023 National Ploughing Championships came to a total of 200,550 over the three days, there was a wonderful atmosphere today with exhibitors and visitors alike thoroughly enjoying themselves on the final day of this year’s ‘Ploughing’. Speaking at the close of business, NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “Despite experiencing a very wet start on Tuesday,… .... Read More

71,800 Visitors at Day 2 of this year’s National Ploughing Championships - A crowd of 71,800 descended upon the site today here in Ratheniska, Co Laois in the heart of Ireland to savour all of what this year’s National Ploughing Championships has to offer. With weather much improved a buoyant mood prevailed throughout the site. Speaking this evening, NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “I have to pay an extraordinary special thanks to the NPA team, local landowners, gardai and volunteers who literally worked around the clock and all night to… .... Read More

Despite inclement weather conditions, the crowd ploughed on and were in lively spirits - From all of the latest machinery and cutting edge innovations to fashion, quality livestock, crafts and many well-known faces the crowd of 66,250 visitors revelled in all of the action on day 1 of this year’s National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, Co Laois. The prestigious ‘Machine of the Year was awarded to the Spreadpoint SX-A Lime spreader. Judges Kevin McDonnell, UCD and Dermot Forristal, Teagasc said ‘we recognise that there were a significant number of excellent entries however the Spreadpoint… .... Read More

Innovative new Interactive Guide for Ploughing visitors - The NPA is delighted to announce a fantastic new initiative for visitors attending this year’s National Ploughing Championships taking place in Ratheniska, Co Laois on September 19th, 20th & 21st. This interactive guide will be most informative and useful for the hundreds of thousands of visitors throughout the 3 days of the event. Andy Kinsella Travella Solutions Managing Director said ‘Attendees can access a free interactive guide with their smart phones and then self-guide around the venue with GPS. For… .... Read More

New partnership announcement with Permanent TSB - The NPA are pleased to announce a fantastic new partnership with Permanent TSB for this year’s National Ploughing Championships taking place in Ratheniska, Co Laois from September 19th to 21st. NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “Permanent TSB have been very supportive and a loyal contributor to ‘Ploughing’ throughout the years so it is with great joy that the NPA are welcoming Permanent TSB on board as the new financial institution sponsor. This is a fantastic opportunity for Permanent… .... Read More

Excitement builds as the countdown is well and truly on for ‘Ploughing 23’ - With just two weeks to go until Europe’s largest outdoor event kicks off! EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness attended this morning’s National Ploughing Championships launch on site in Ratheniska, Co Laois where the national media and special guests were entertained by local performers from Co. Laois while prize-winning animals, high powered tractors, horses and hounds were all on display. Everyone was in high spirits and getting into ‘ploughing’ mode’ in the hope that this glorious weather would hold out for just… .... Read More

Keeping You Safe – Child Safety Wristband Project - The Ploughing and FBD: Keeping You Safe child safety wristband project will be an important feature again at this year’s National Ploughing Championships, which will take place in Raheniska, Co Laois on September 19th, 20th & 21st. Over 40,000 of the safety wristbands will be handed-out at all of the event entrances, which will allow for a contact phone number to be written on the band in case the wearer wanders off amidst the large gathering. NPA Managing Director Anna… .... Read More

LOCAL ENTERPRISE VILLAGE OPENS UP A NEW WORLD FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AT PLOUGHING 2023 - Over 30 small businesses from across the country will get an opportunity to sell and promote themselves to crowds of almost 300,000 as part of the Local Enterprise Village at this year’s National Ploughing Championships. The initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices was launched today by Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Neale Richmond T.D. and will be open as part of the Ploughing Championships taking place in Ratheniska, County Laois from the 19th to 21st September… .... Read More

National Ploughing Initiate Waiting List for Exhibition Space in July for first time ever - Nine weeks to go to the 2023 National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, Co Laois from September 19th to 21st, trade bookings are at capacity due to exceptional & unparalleled demand for this time of year and a waiting list is in place. NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said, “The extraordinary number of confirmed exhibitors highlights how the Ploughing makes “good commercial sense” for the companies exhibiting. Europe’s largest outdoor exhibition is an ideal opportunity to showcase the very best… .... Read More

Think you have the recipe for success? - The National Brown Bread Baking Competition sponsored by ALDI in association with the NPA and ICA is back! The competition, in association with the National Ploughing Association and Irish Countrywomen’s Association, will see one lucky winner have their bread stocked in ALDI! Are you a bread-baking extraordinaire? Put your baking skills to the test and enter this year’s National Brown Bread Baking Competition! ALDI is delighted to announce that it will once again sponsor this year’s National Brown Bread Baking… .... Read More

Exhibitor Bookings Are Pouring In - Exhibitor Bookings Are Pouring In For The 92nd National Ploughing Championships As Businesses Avail Of The Special Early Bird Rate An unprecedented number of exhibitors have already booked in for this year’s National Ploughing Championships, which will take place in Ratheniska, Co Laois on September 19th, 20th & 21st. There has been an immense trade interest in exhibiting at this year’s ‘Ploughing’ as 300,000 visitors are expected to attend Europe’s largest outdoor event, it is widely viewed as the… .... Read More

Applications Open for the Innovation Arena at the National Ploughing Championships 2023 - Prize fund of €10,000 on offer for Best Start-Up New Agri-tech Hub to host winning businesses Monday, 3 April 2023 – Applications for the Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena at the National Ploughing Championships, in conjunction with the National Ploughing Association (NPA) are now being accepted. Irish agri companies are invited to apply to showcase their products and innovations at the Innovation Arena from the 19th – 21st September at the National Ploughing Championships 2023 in Ratheniska, Co.Laois. The Innovation Arena… .... Read More

THE 67TH ‘CAIRN OF PEACE’ UNVEILING IN RATHENISKA, CO LAOIS - Pax Arva Colat ‘Let Peace Cultivate the Fields’ This morning the ‘Cairn of Peace’ was officially unveiled in its permanent home in Ratheniska, Co Laois to celebrate Ireland hosting the 67th World Ploughing Contest in 2022. Each country since 1953 that hosts the World Ploughing Contest erects a 'Cairn of Peace' Monument – which is inscribed 'Let Peace Cultivate the fields'. The idea of a Cairn of Peace being a permanent way to commemorate a World Ploughing Event. Although stylistically… .... Read More

Ploughing News 2022

National Ploughing Championships to return to Co. Laois - THE 92nd NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS WILL RETURN TO THE HUGELY SUCCESSFUL RATHENISKA SITE IN CO. LAOIS Europe’s largest outdoor event, “The National Ploughing Championships” is set to return to Ratheniska, Co Laois from September 19th to 21st for a second year given the triumph of this year’s event. The total attendance figures for the 2022 ‘Ploughing’ came to an amazing 277,000 visitors and with over 1,700 exhibitors it was an incredible success. The widely popular site was confirmed as the… .... Read More

Sun beginning to set as one of the most successful Ploughing Championships draws to a close - As the traffic flows from the car parks this evening, the total attendance figure for the 91ST National Ploughing Championships came to a massive 277,000 over the 3 days, with exhibitors and visitors alike thoroughly enjoying themselves. This marks one of the most successful National Ploughing Championships to date as it returned for the first time in three years to its full glory. NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said, “The overall mood for this year’s Ploughing has been incredibly… .... Read More

Great excitement as countdown to ‘Ploughing 2022’ begins - With two weeks to go until Europe’s largest outdoor event kicks off, preparations in Ratheniska, Co Laois are seriously taking shape as this green field transforms into the bustling city that will become #Ploughing2022. There is also an extra buzz this year as Ireland will be hosting the 67th World Ploughing Contest. World Ploughing Organization General Secretary Anna Marie McHugh said “It is a massive honour for Ireland to welcome international delegations and their supporters from 28 countries all around the globe. Where the very best… .... Read More

Certa to fuel this year’s ‘Ploughing’ as all roads lead to Laois this September - Spot a ‘Certa ‘billboard road sign and win tickets to this year’s National Ploughing Championships NPA are delighted to announce Certa will be the official fuel sponsor for this year’s National Ploughing Championships taking place in Ratheniska, Co Laois on September 20th, 21st & 22nd. Celebrating this collaboration, over one hundred promotional road sign billboards have been erected at strategic locations throughout the country. To be in with a chance to win a pair of complimentary tickets to this year’s event… .... Read More

Bank of Ireland to Give Away Over 1,000 Hedgerow Plants in Sustainability Drive at 2022 National Ploughing Championships - Bank of Ireland is placing an added focus on biodiversity and sustainability at the forthcoming National Ploughing Championships, taking place in Ratheniska, Co Laois between September 20th and 22nd. The Bank, which returns this year as an official event partner of the massively popular annual Ploughing showcase, will be giving away over 1,000 Department of Agriculture approved native Irish hedgerow plants to people visiting its stand on the Ratheniska site. One of the Bank’s central ambitions at the Ploughing focusses… .... Read More

Over 30 small companies set to plough for new business at Local Enterprise Village - Small businesses from across the country will have an opportunity to promote themselves at one of Ireland’s biggest events as part of this year’s Local Enterprise Village at the National Ploughing Championships from the 20-22nd September in Rathiniska, County Laois. The initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) will see 31 small businesses, one from each LEO, take a stand in the Local Enterprise Village in the heart of the Ploughing Championships, opening their businesses up to almost 300,000 prospective… .... Read More

Ploughing 2022 gearing up to be a roaring success as exhibitor bookings are pouring in. - Over 80% of the final 2019 outdoor trade exhibition space is already booked. At this stage of the year some categories are completely full, while other areas have limited space available and there are still 7 weeks to go until the big event so based on historical evidence there will definitely be more outdoor bookings over the next couple of weeks – as there always are.Indoor exhibition stands are 95% of the final numbers when compared to 2019 and again… .... Read More

Have you got what it bakes? - The National Brown Bread Baking Competition is back! The competition, in association with the National Ploughing Association and The Irish Country Women’s Association, has a first prize of €15,000 Do you know someone that has perfected their brown bread baking skills over the past year or perhaps you can rise to the challenge? If the answer is yes, then this is the competition for you! ALDI will once again sponsor the National Brown Bread Baking Competition, in association with the… .... Read More

Keeping You Safe Wristband Initiative - The hugely successful Ploughing & FBD: Keeping You Safe Wristband Initiative will return for this year's Championships NPA MD Anna May McHugh, FBD CEO Tomás O’Midheach and local landowners children Michael and Eóin Quigley and Hayden Hughes launch the popular FBD: Keeping You Safe wristbands initiative for the National Ploughing Championships on this year’s site in Ratheniska, Co Laois. This year’s event will take place on September 20th, 21st & 22nd. Photo: Alf Harvey, no reproduction fee The Ploughing and… .... Read More

EXHIBITOR BOOKINGS ARE POURING IN FOR THIS YEAR’S NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS AS BUSINESSES AVAIL OF THE SPECIAL EARLY BIRD RATE - There has been an immense trade interest in exhibiting at this year’s National Ploughing Championships, which will take place in Ratheniska, Co Laois on September 20th, 21st & 22nd. 300,000 visitors are expected to attend Europe’s largest outdoor event, it is widely viewed as the gig of the year highlighting all that is great about Irish companies, food, farming and culture. To guarantee your space and to avail of a special early bird rate book before May 16th. NPA Managing… .... Read More

National Ploughing AGM Focus On Plans For Return Of Exhibition & Hosting World Event - Date: Wednesday 27th of April 2022National Ploughing Association Directors from every county in Ireland attended today’s NPA AGM in Athy, Co Kildare, where a most powerful and productive meeting took place. A full progress report was presented to the meeting detailing the preparations for the 91stNational Ploughing Championships and 67th World Ploughing Contest taking place in Ratheniska, Co Laois on September 20th, 21st & 22nd.The focus of the AGM was firmly on plans for the return of the exhibition after… .... Read More

Agri-innovators and businesses invited to enter Enterprise Ireland’s Innovation Arena Competition - The Annual Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena Competition returns to this year’s National Ploughing Championship in Ratheniska, Co Laois Closing date for applications for the competition, in partnership with the National Ploughing Association, is June 1st 11th April 2022– Enterprise Ireland’s Annual Innovation Arena Awards 2022 have today officially been launched, as the competition physically returns to this year’s National Ploughing Championship event. The Innovation Arena Competition, which is run in partnership with the National Ploughing Association, is an annual competition… .... Read More

Ireland To Host The 67th World Ploughing Contest - Ireland To Host The 67th World Ploughing Contest Ireland will have the tremendous honour of holding this year’s World Ploughing Contest in Ratheniska, Co Laois on September 21st and 22nd. World Ploughing Organisation General Secretary Anna Marie McHugh said “I am delighted today to announce that twenty-five countries from all over the globe from Africa to Australia will be participating in this year’s World Ploughing Contest in Ireland. The very best international ploughing competitors and their teams will be battling… .... Read More

Ploughing News 2021

Great excitement as Ploughing Championship’s Exhibition Portal opens for first Ploughing in 3 years! - Book Early To Avail Of Early Bird Rates! The Trade Exhibition portal for exhibitors to book stand space opens today following much anticipation for all details please see www.npa.ie. The largest outdoor event on the Irish Calendar is set for a fantastic comeback this year after a two-year absence returning to the familiar venue of Ratheniska, County Laois on September 20th21st & 22nd. 2019 saw the biggest event to date with an attendance of almost 300,000 and already there is… .... Read More

The 90th Anniversary Of The National Ploughing Championships Was A Huge Success - The National Ploughing Championships first established in 1931 celebrated its 90th anniversary in Ratheniska, Co Laois with the focus firmly back on the Association’s ploughing roots. A true ‘Ploughing’ master class was on display with the finest ploughmen and women from all over the country battling it out on 150 acres in 22 separate classes over the 3 days as old friend’s reunited and new marvellous memories were made. Martin Kehoe from Wexford became the National Senior Conventional Ploughing Champion… .... Read More

Emo Oil – Our Brand New Sponsor - NPA ARE DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THAT EMO OIL WILL BE A BRAND NEW SPONSOR FUELLING THIS YEAR’S NATIONAL PLOUGHING COMPETITIONS#Ploughing2021 is due to take place behind closed gates from September 15th to 17th in Rathenisa, Co Laois This year the National Ploughing Association will celebrate its 90th Anniversary with the National Ploughing Championships competitions brining the focus back to its 1931 ‘ploughing’ origins. It is tremendous to have Emo Oil on board as the new Official Fuel & Lubricants sponsor… .... Read More

The National Brown Bread Baking Competition sponsored by Aldi - With the National Ploughing Association and The Irish county Women’s Association A grand prize of €15,000 for the overall winner! Winner will be announced on 17th of September Aldi will once again, sponsor The National Brown Bread Baking Competition, in association with the National Ploughing Association (NPA) and the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA). Do you know someone that has perfected their brown bread baking skills over the past year? Have you made a brilliant brown bread whilst stuck at home… .... Read More

Ploughing Executive Cancel Trade Exhibition & World Ploughing Contest - Cancelled Due to Restriction, Uncertainty and Public Health and Safety Concerns. Ploughing Competitions still scheduled for September. The NPA Executive have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2021 Trade Exhibition following months of monitoring the Covid-19 status and taking into account the Governments updated roadmap for the next few months. Given the sheer scale of the Ploughing with 297,000 attendees in 2019 and the lack of clarity about what Covid-19 restrictions and regulations will look like in September for… .... Read More

National Ploughing Championships - Probably the largest National Ploughing Association in the world the NPA, will host the National Ploughing Championships in 2022 on September 20th, 21st & 22nd in Ratheniska, Co. Laois. Attracting an annual attendance of almost 300,000 this spectacular annual “Farming Festival” has it all! On entering the golden fields of stubble prepare to be awed by the precision and skill of the ploughman as they hone their craft to join the realms of the elite National Ploughing Champions. Leave behind… .... Read More

National Ploughing Association announcing the 2021 Ploughing Championships

90th National Ploughing Championships Announced - Ratheniska, Co. Laois. 15th - 18th September 2021. The National Ploughing Association were delighted to recently announce details for its 2021 event, which takes place in Ratheniska, Co. Laois, from September 15th-18th. 2021 will see the National Ploughing Championships in its 90th year, and is also the 67th World Ploughing Contest. .... Read More

Ploughing News 2020

NPA CANCEL TRADE EXHIBITION 2020 - Ploughing 2020 - Trade Exhibition Cancelled HOPE TO RUN 89TH NATIONAL PLOUGHING COMPETITIONS BEHIND CLOSED GATES DUE TO COVID-19 The NPA have cancelled the National Ploughing Trade Exhibition due to take place in Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow from September 15th to 17th but still hope that there will be an opportunity to run the ploughing competitions behind closed gates due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said that “the Executive reached this very difficult decision… .... Read More

NPA cancel all ploughing classes except international qualifiers - The National Ploughing Association Executive made the difficult decision to cancel all National Ploughing Finals 2020 with the exception of Senior qualifier classes for 2021 which include qualification for the World Ploughing Contest scheduled to be hosted in Ireland next September. The qualifying classes have been postponed until 6th – 7th – 8th October conditional on HSE & government recommendations at that time. The NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said that “the Executive reached the decision to cancel the Trade Exhibition back… .... Read More

2020 NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS SET TO RETURN TO BALLINTRANE, FENAGH, CO CARLOW FOLLOWING THE MOST SUCESSFUL YEAR TO DATE - The NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh announced at the recent ‘Ploughing Prizewinners Awards Banquet’ that the 89th National Ploughing Championships will return again to the superb site in Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow following such as successful event this year. The site was confirmed as the ideal location for the 2020Championships at the prize-giving ceremony attended by over 500 in Tullow. Speaking after the announcement the NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “We are delighted to be returning toBallintrane,… .... Read More

Ploughing News 2019

SUN SETS ON THE MOST SUCCESSFUL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS OF ALL TIME - As the final flow of traffic departs from the car parks this evening, the total attendance figure for the 88th Championships came to a record breaking 297,000 visitors over the 3 days, with exhibitors and visitors alike thoroughly enjoying themselves making this the most successful National Ploughing Championships to date. Speaking at the close of business, NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said " Traffic to and from the site has been moving well all week and credit is due… .... Read More

RECORD NUMBER OF 216,OOO VISITORS ATTENDED THE FIRST 2 DAYS OF #PLOUGHING19 - The sun shone bright in a clear blue sky today as 113,500 visitors relished in an electric atmosphere, quite like no other in Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow. This brings the total attendance so far this week to an all-time record high of 216,000 over the first two days. Speaking this evening, NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “We expected large crowds again today given the positive reports and great feedback received yesterday, the festive spirit was truly alive &… .... Read More

Tuesdays Results - Click the link below to download todays Ploughing results Results - Tuesday .... Read More

The 2019 NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS ROARS INTO ACTION ON DAY 1 OF THE EVENT’S 88TH YEAR - Spirits were high as visitors poured onto the site from early morning and the day didn’t disappoint the 102,500 attendees as clear blue skies shone throughout the day, shoppers and agricultural enthusiasts joined celebrities and politicians on over 30km of metal roadway to experience a great day out. From farming to fashion, artisan foods to top-of-the range machinery; the very best of what Ireland has to offer was on display today for people of all interests to enjoy. Commenting on… .... Read More

GREAT EXCITEMENT AS COUNTDOWN IS NOW WELL UNDERWAY TO ‘PLOUGHING 19’ - With less than two weeks to go to the staging of Europe's largest outdoor events, preparations in Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow are seriously taking shape as this green field transforms into the bustling city that will be #Ploughing19. Today, the national media were treated to an exciting preview of what to expect at this year's National Ploughing Championships, as the event was officially launched on the site. At this morning's launch, the media and special guests were entertained by local… .... Read More

IRISH PLOUGHING TEAM ARE SILVER WINNING CHAMPIONS - Congratulations and well wishes are pouring in from all corners of Ireland with the announcement of the results over the weekend from the World Ploughing Contest in Baudette, Minnesota, USA. Ireland's representatives on the world stage, Mr Eamonn Tracey and Mr John Whelan both won silver place for Ireland at the World Ploughing Contest. Carlow man Eamonn Tracey won silver place representing Ireland with an outstanding performance in the Conventional Class. While neighbouring county Wexford man, John Whelan also secured… .... Read More

Irish Team Sendoff - .... Read More

THE HUGELY SUCCESSFUL PLOUGHING & FBD: KEEPING YOU SAFE PROJECT SET TO RETURN FOR THIS YEAR’S CHAMPIONSHIPS - The Ploughing and FBD: Keeping You Safe child safety wristband initiative will be an important feature again at this year’s National Ploughing Championships following its tremendous success in previous years. Over 40,000 white wristbands will be handed-out at all of the event entrances, which will allow for a contact phone number to be written on the band in case the wearer wanders off amidst the large gathering. NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh, FBD CEO Fiona Muldoon and local children… .... Read More

ETIHAD AIRWAYS TO SPONSOR BEST DRESSED ‘COUNTRY STYLE’ LADIES COMPETITION AT THIS YEAR’S PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS - Following the success of last year’s partnership Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, will again sponsor this year’s Best Dressed ‘Country Style’ ladies competition. The exclusive prize worth €7,000 includes a pair of return flights from Dublin to Abu Dhabi, a four-night stay in luxury 5-Star accommodation and two complimentary passes for the activities and attractions on Yas Island. The fashionable competition will take place on Wednesday the 18th of September in Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow.… .... Read More

A SNAPSHOT OF IRELAND’S SMALL BUSINESS COMMUNITY AT PLOUGHING’S LOCAL ENTERPRISE VILLAGE - The Local Enterprise Village at this year’s National Ploughing Championships will provide a snapshot of the cream of the crop of Ireland’s small businesses according to Heather Humphreys T.D., Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, who launched the Local Enterprise Office initiative today in Dublin. The Local Enterprise Village will feature over 30 small businesses, each a client of their Local Enterprise Office across the country. There are 31 Local Enterprise Offices located in Local Authorities nationwide funded by the… .... Read More

#PLOUGHIING19 TO BE FUELED BY TOP OIL - Over one hundred Top Oil billboards are located around the country advertising #Ploughing19 in Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow from Sept 17th to 19th. At the Top Oil/Ploughing launch Anna May McHugh said “it is a very important partnership with Top Oil as the signs remind patrons that it is time to get ready for ploughing. As the main fuel sponsors, Top Oil bring much to the table in terms of supporting the hosting of the Championships. As the onsite fuel… .... Read More

UNVEILING OF THE 1954 WORLD PLOUGHING CONTEST ‘CAIRN OF PEACE’ MONUMENT - A great crowd attended the 1954 World Ploughing Contest ‘Cairn of Peace’ monument as it was unveiled in the centre of Killarney, Co Kerry at the weekend, for a very joyous and historic occasion. Each year a ‘Cairn of Peace’ is erected in the location where the competition was run and it is was fantastic to see that 65 years later this tremendous monument was unveiled. This was the first World Ploughing Contest to take place on European soil and… .... Read More

Brown Bread Baking Competition – €15,000 prize - €15,000 prize on offer as National Brown Bread Baking Competition Launches for 2019! The National Brown Bread Baking Competition 2019 is open for entries. Aldi will once again this year sponsor The National Brown Bread Baking Competition, in association with the National Ploughing Association (NPA) and the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA). Relaunched five years ago by the NPA, the event has proven to be a huge success, with entries from each one of the 26 counties. NPA MD Anna… .... Read More

Applications open for County Carlow companies to be part of inCarlow Pavilion - Applications open for County Carlow companies to be part of inCarlow Pavilion for the 2019 National Ploughing Championships Over a quarter of million people are expected to descend on County Carlow during 2018 for the National Ploughing Championships in Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow on 17th-19th September 2019 and today (2nd April 2019) , Carlow County Council opened applications for the inCarlow – Enterprise , Education , Experience & Tourism Pavilion which will showcase County Carlow at the Centre of the… .... Read More

Applications Open for the Innovation Arena - Applications Open for the Innovation Arena at the National Ploughing Championships Top prize fund of €15,000 for overall winner of the Innovation Arena 2019 Applications for the Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena and Awards at the National Ploughing Championships, in conjunction with the National Ploughing Association (NPA) are now being accepted. Irish agri companies are invited to apply to showcase their products and innovations at the Innovation Arena from the 17th - 19th September at the National Ploughing Championships in Ballintrane,… .... Read More

Team Ireland take on the World and Win again - Congratulations have been pouring in from all over the country for the victorious Irish Ploughing team. At the weekend's European Ploughing Championships, which took place in Ballinaboola, Co Wexford where 13 countries took part the Irish team were triumphant yet again with Martin Kehoe & Dan Donnelly both from Wexford winning gold in the conventional and reversible competitions respectively and Brian Mahon from Offaly securing a silver medal position on the final day and fourth place position overall in the… .... Read More

All eyes will be on Ballinaboola for the European Ploughing Championships - The 36th European Ploughing Championships will take place in Springpark, Ballinaboola, Co Wexford, making it the place to be on March 30th & 31st. With 33 competitors and over 200 European visitors between competitors, judges, coaches and supporters descending on Ireland there will be a truly international flavour. With teams starting to arrive from 22nd from 13 countries; Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, England, France, Germany, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Ireland, Russia, Scotland, Switzerland and Wales, the competition will be very keen.… .... Read More

Record Crowds at the First Public Organising Meeting for This Year’s National Ploughing Championships - There was a massive crowd at the first packed public meeting to plan ahead for this year’s ‘Ploughing’ in Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow from September 17th to 19th. There was huge enthusiasm and positivity from the floor in anticipation of this year’s event. Current World Ploughing Conventional Champion, Garryhill local Eamonn Tracey opened the meeting and welcomed all attendees. NPA Assistant Managing Director Anna Marie McHugh gave an overview of the NPA, the voluntary association and the sheer scale &… .... Read More

2019 Championships in Co Carlow! - The NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh was delighted to announce yesterday evening at the 'Ploughing Prizewinners Banquet' that the 88th National Ploughing Championships will be held on a superb, centrally located site in Co Carlow from September 17th to 19th. The site was confirmed as the ideal location for the 2019 Championships at the prize-giving ceremony attended by over 500 in the Bridge House Hotel, Tullamore, Co Offaly. Speaking after the announcement the NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh… .... Read More

Ploughing News 2018

SUN SHINES ON THE FINAL DAY - As the traffic flows from the car parks this evening, the total attendance figure for the 2018 National Ploughing Championships came to a total of 240,700 over the 3 days, there was a more relaxed mood today with visitors thoroughly enjoying themselves on the final day of this year’s Ploughing Championships. Speaking at the close of business, Ms Anna Marie McHugh said “We are delighted with the overall attendance figure this year, particularly given the unprecedented natural event of storm… .... Read More

THE INDOMITABLE IRISH SPIRIT ROARS ON AT DAY 2 - Despite the destructive appetite of Storm Ali and her best efforts to put paid to the National Ploughing Championships, exhibitors, contractors, service providers, the NPA team and local volunteers put in a mammoth effort and returned the site to all its glory, and as a result it was business as usual this morning for Day 2 of this year’s event. A crowd of 81,500 visitors descended upon the site here in Screggan, Tullamore to savour all of this year’s Ploughing.… .... Read More

PLOUGHING #18 KICKED OFF IN TRUE ‘PLOUGHING’ STYLE - Spirits were high and the atmosphere electric despite the occasional shower, visitors poured in the gates from early morning to embrace the ‘Ploughing’ experience. With 97,500 attendees enjoying everything from farming to fashion, artisan foods to top-of-the range machinery, quality livestock and ploughing competitions of an excellent standard. This year’s event is the perfect example of the very best of what Ireland has to offer for people of all interests and sensibilities. President Michael D. Higgins officially launched the event… .... Read More

Only Two Weeks To Go Until The Most Anticipated Event of the Year #PLOUGHING18 - GREAT EXCITEMENT AS THE COUNTDOWN IS NOW UNDERWAY With just under two weeks to go to the staging of Europe’s largest outdoor event, the site in Screggan, Tullamore is really taking shape for this year’s National Ploughing Championships. Today the national media were treated to an exciting preview of what to expect, as the event was officially launched on the Co. Offaly site. At this morning’s launch, the media and special guests were entertained by local performers from Offaly while… .... Read More

Irish Team Take on the World and Win! - Congratulations and well wishes are pouring in from all corners of Ireland with the announcement of the results over the weekend from the World Ploughing Contest in Einsiedel, Germany. Ireland’s representatives on the world stage, Mr Eamonn Tracey and Mr John Whelan won 1st and 2nd places respectively for Ireland at the World Ploughing Contest. Carlow man Eamonn Tracey is the new World Ploughing Champion representing Ireland with an outstanding performance in the Conventional Class. While neighbouring county Wexford man,… .... Read More

‘Machine of the Year’ award - The ‘Machine of the Year’ award is open to all machines launched/manufactured since the last National Ploughing Championships. Entries must currently be in manufacture and all machines should have a practical use in agriculture and will be exhibiting at Ploughing 2018. NPA Assistant Managing Director Anna Marie McHugh said “There was great interest with entries of an exceptional standard in last year’s ‘Machine of the Year’ competition and this is to be expected again this year. As the quality of… .... Read More

Small businesses get ‘ploughing-ready’ - In thirteen weeks’ time, the National Ploughing Championships (September 18th – 20th), Europe’s largest outdoor event, returns to Offaly and small businesses from all over the country are getting ‘ploughing-ready’ thanks to the Local Enterprise Offices. Under plans for the ‘Local Enterprise Village’, launched today (June 20th) by the Minister for Trade, Employment and Business Pat Breen T.D., Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) are helping 30 small businesses and start-ups launch products and services to the thousands of visitors expected at… .... Read More

Kildare Show - The Kildare County Show will take place on Sunday 17th of June at 11.00am in the GAA grounds in Athy, Co Kildare. This will be an action packed day of fun for all of the family including a Food Fayre, Quality Machinery & Cars, a Dog Show, Bubble Soccer, Sheep Dog Trials, Music & Dancing, a Petting Corner and much much more! All accompanied under 14s are free of charge. The Kildare County Show Society has contributed greatly to the… .... Read More

Countdown to #Ploughing18 has begun! - Up to 90% of the stand space is booked for this year’s National Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Tullamore, Co Offaly from Sept 18th – 20th. This interest in #Ploughing18 is indicative of the success of the event, 15 weeks to go until Europe’s largest outdoor event kicks off preparations are well underway. NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “It is the primary aim of the National Ploughing Association to improve exhibitor and visitor experience to ensure the best possible… .... Read More

Irish Ploughing Team’s Success in Russia - Welcome Home Reception in Dublin Airport to celebrate the Irish Ploughing Team’s great success at the recent European Ploughing Contest in Suzdal, Russia – Liam O’Driscoll from Bandon, Co Cork who beat off stiff competition to win first place at the European Competition and Dan Donnelly from Blackwater, Co Wexford who came 1st the stubble ploughing and 4th in the overall competition. The team were managed by Laois man DJ McHugh and coached by Joe Slattery from Tipperary. The NPA… .... Read More

Innovation Arena Awards open for applications - Total prize fund to the value of over €80,000 Embargo, Friday 6 April 2018 Enterprise Ireland’s Innovation ArenaAwards at the National Ploughing Championships, in conjunction with the Irish Farmers Journal, are now open for applications from Irish companies within the agri sector. The awards will take place within the popular Innovation Arena at the heart of the National Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, 18-21 September 2018. The Innovation Arena is a unique platform from which Irish companies can… .... Read More

All Roads Lead to NPC ’18! - Top Oil, the official fuel sponsor of this year’s National Ploughing Championships have joined forces again with the NPA, following several successful years, to brand more than one hundred road-sign billboards nationwide reminding the country that “the Ploughing” in Screggan, Tullamore, Co Offaly from September 18th to 20th is fast approaching. At the Top Oil/Ploughing launch NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh spoke of how she looked forward to working with Top Oil in the run up to and during… .... Read More

The search is on for Ireland’s best Junior Baker! - Winning Lemon Drizzle Cake to be stocked in Aldi stores nationwide Aldi will once again this year sponsor The National Junior Baking Competition, in association with Foróige, Ireland’s leading youth organization and the National Ploughing Association. The finals will take place in the Aldi Marquee at the National Ploughing Championships in September. The theme of the National Junior Baking Competition this year is ‘’Lemon Drizzle Cake’ and the judges are anticipating some delicious cakes from the wealth of talented young… .... Read More

The National Brown Bread Baking Competition 2018 is open for entries - €10,000 prize on offer as 2018 National Brown Bread Baking Competition Launches The National Brown Bread Baking Competition 2018 is open for entries New for 2018 - Aldi is encouraging non ICA members to enter through regional Aldi heats Aldi will once again this year sponsor The National Brown Bread Baking Competition, in association with the National Ploughing Association (NPA) and the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA). Relaunched four years ago by the NPA, the event has proven to be a… .... Read More

Jimmy Grainger RIP - Jimmy Grainger RIP (NPA Life Member and former President and Chairman) Jimmy Grainger an NPA Director and life member from Kilteel, Naas, Co Kildare has sadly passed away and will be deeply missed by all in the National Ploughing Association. His absolute dedication and whole-hearted contribution to the NPA has spanned several decades. He was even a founder member of the Kildare Ploughing Association in 1952. Jimmy has been heavily involved with Ploughing throughout the years both as a competitor… .... Read More

Irish Ploughing Team Take-On The World and Win - Congratulations and well wishes are pouring in from all corners of Ireland with the announcement of the Irish Teams’ magnificent results over the weekend from the World Ploughing Contest in Njoro, Kenya. Ireland’s representatives on the world stage, Mr John Whelan and Eamonn Tracey won first and silver places respectively for Ireland in Kenya. Wexford man John Whelan fought off tough competition with an outstanding performance to become Supreme World Ploughing Reversible Champion for his country. While neighbouring county Carlow… .... Read More

Read More 2018 News Here

Exhibitor News

Glanbia supports Pink at Ploughing! - .... Read More

Bus Éireann @ NPC - Bus Éireann drew great interest from crowds yesterday bringing extra fun, colour and excitement to its activation this year. On site Bus Éireann have buses, bus props, prizes and much more. Come find us at Block 3, Row 21 and Stand 459 and see for yourself! .... Read More

Farmers warned about hidden dangers from confined spaces on farms - Minister of State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection, Pat Breen TD, today officially opened the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) Farm Safety exhibit at the National Ploughing Championships in Ballintrane, Fenagh, County Carlow. At the event, Minister Breen launched a new HSA publication on ‘Confined Spaces in Agriculture’, which explains the dangers associated with confined spaces and sets out practical steps on how to prevent life threatening incidents. Minister Breen said the exposure to… .... Read More

Beechill Bulbs - A few snaps of some of the special items on the Beechill Bulbs stand for the next 3 days. Please go to bulbs.ie for more info .... Read More

Peter McVerry Trust – Empty Homes Panel – Thursday 19th September - Event: Panel Discussion on Empty Homes and the Reviving of Ireland’s Rural Towns Date & Time: 11.00am, Thursday 19th September 2019 Location: Row 36, Block 4, Stand 692 Event Details: Peter McVerry Trust will host a panel discussion looking at how we can regenerate rural towns and villages by reusing empty buildings. The panel will be moderated by Joyce Fegan, of the Irish Examiner, with panellists Alison Harvey of the Heritage Council, Paul Johnston of Waterford County Council and Aoife… .... Read More

Peter McVerry Trust – Rural Homelessness Report Launch – Tuesday 17th September - Event: Launch of Peter McVerry Trust’s Report on Rural Homelessness Date & Time: 11.00am, Tuesday 17th September 2019 Location: Row 36, Block 4, Stand 692 Event Details: Peter McVerry Trust will publish a new report examining rural homelessness in Ireland. The report will look at the number of people now impacted by homelessness and the factors driving rural homelessness outside of Irish cities. It will set out five new measures to tackle rural homelessness. The main speaker at the event… .... Read More

UCD - UCD are delighted to attend the ploughing again this year and would appreciate any support that you can offer. During the course of the three days we have a number of activities planned. We will have live food science experiments in our marquee each day. We are launching our new Undergraduate Prospectus for 2020 which is always an important documents for potential agricultural science students each year and we are calling on Alumni to drop by and provide video testimonials… .... Read More

World’s 1st Mist-Sensation Shower - OMCO HIGASHINIHON INTERNATIONAL T/A AMANE HEAVENLY RAIN are delighted to launch the “World’s 1st Mist-Sensation” Shower and the "World’s 1st Shower Tab" for the first time outside Japan at the National Ploughing Championships in Ireland. Come visit our stand in THE HUB (stand 648) you’ll be amazed at the difference this innovative shower makes to any shower! World’s 1st Mist-Sensation Shower amane in Japanese literally means “Heavenly Rain” and delivers an experience to match! Using 615 x 0.19mm precision holes… .... Read More

Atlas Lift Trucks - We at Atlas Lift Trucks will be introducing the Everun ER2500 telescopic wheel loader which has a capacity of 2500 kgs, a reach of 4500 mm, an 80 hp diesel engine, air disc brakes and luxury cabin for 25,000 euro plus vat. Also we are showing the Heli CHL All Terrain forklift which has a capacity of 3,500 kgs and Isuzu diesel engine for 25,000 euro plus vat. And as a contribution towards the environment, we have a 'special offer'… .... Read More

Dairymaster - Dairymaster will be at stand no. 93 in Block 2 on Row 4 showcasing the latest in dairy equipment and milking technology. For the first time, Dairymaster has introduced artificial intelligence to rotary milking systems and their Mission Control system- shortlisted for an award will be on display at the Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena on stand no. 273 The equipment and solutions on display on stand no. 93 will include products from all categories including: Milking, Feeding, Cooling, Scrapers and Herd… .... Read More

Bambrew - Bambrew are a small start up business based in Milltownpass, Co Westmeath. The company was started by Siobháin & René in November 2018 as they felt they had to do something to stem the tide of all the plastics being used daily in Ireland, where the plastic more than likely ends up floating in the ocean, therefore harming marine life and also ending up in landfill. They decided to start a business providing more sustainable solutions/alternatives to single use plastics.… .... Read More

Irish Kidney Association-organ donor awareness at National Ploughing Championships - The first day of the National Ploughing Championships 2019 marks the 10th anniversary of a hugely significant organ donor awareness event. The 17th September 2009, ten years ago, was the day when Emmy Award winning screenwriter Frank Deasy passed away from liver cancer. An radio interview just days before with his old friend RTE broadcaster Joe Duffy on Liveline about his plight and what he described as being like 'on death row' while waiting for a liver transplant spurred a… .... Read More

homer - What is homer? For those seeking to reconnect with a move back to their home place or those downsizing on their family land, homer offers a practical, affordable, alternative to the standard planning process. With considered, energy-efficient designs and a transparent online process, homer navigates all areas of the planning application. Planning Expertise homer provides a planning application service with architecturally designed homes for modern living in rural Ireland. homer is a growing company based in the West of Ireland,… .... Read More

Take the IT Carlow Tractor Challenge at the National Ploughing Championships! - Do you fancy your chances in a ‘Formula 1 Tractor’ challenge? Could you beat All-Black Richie McCaw’s 1km time of one minute on a Watt Bike? Can you jump like an elite athlete or handle creepy crawlies calmly? Visitors to this year’s Ploughing Championships (17th-19th September) will have the opportunity to find these out and more with a visit to the Institute of Technology Carlow tent over the three days of the championships. This year sees the Institute host its… .... Read More

MAD MARCH HARE AND THE REVIVAL OF POITÍN - Quietly distilled in West Cork, Mad March Hare Irish Poitín is part of a national revival of Poitín as an emerging, modern, innovative and vibrant category, led by independent Irish producers. Poitín is of the oldest spirits in the world, dating from the 6th century, and was traditionally the spirit of choice for the average Irish man or woman. In contrast, Irish Whiskey was the beverage of choice for the elite, with the majority exported overseas and was known as… .... Read More

Waikato Milking Systems offer complete solution for farmers in Ireland - Milking parlours and dairy management systems, designed to make life easier for farmers and their cows, will be part of the product offering from Waikato Milking Systems at this year’s National Ploughing Championships. The company’s European sales manager Gillian Fullerton-Smith said she is looking forward to showing farmers how the Waikato brand can help them grow the value of their dairy. She said being part of the 88th Ploughing Championships is a great opportunity to catch up with some familiar… .... Read More

Irish Heart Foundation offering free heart health checks at the National Ploughing Championships - Blood pressure & pulse checks, lifestyle advice and heart health information at Row 31, Stand 653 Dublin, 09 September 2019: The Irish Heart Foundation is calling on farmers and attendees at this year’s National Ploughing Championships in Fenagh, Co. Carlow to visit its stand at Row 31, Stand 653 from September 17th – 19th to receive a free heart health check. Attendees will receive a free blood pressure check, pulse check, lifestyle advice and heart health information during… .... Read More

Proudly Made in Africa - We are a social enterprise focused on trade not aid with Africa – our goal is to create jobs in Africa through building market links with the world. We believe helping people earn their own living enables them to lift themselves out of poverty and stop relying on handouts. On our stand next week, we’ll be showing off the best of the best food products that Africa has to offer and most of the producers have more than one… .... Read More

Landini introduces114-140hp V-Shifttractorwith CVT transmission at The Ploughing - A new Landini tractor that brings all the control, efficiency and driver comfort benefits of a stepless CVT transmission lower down the horsepower scale will make its first appearance in Ireland at the National Ploughing Championships in September. The Landini 6-145C LS V-Shift is a variant of the popular 6C Series, previously only available with semi-powershift transmissions; the new V-Shift transmission provides ultimate driving ease in the yard with a loader, in the field with an implement or on the… .... Read More

McCormick tractors for tillage and grassland to feature at The Ploughing - Active on-farm demonstrations by dealers in Ireland have helped bring home to farmers the features and benefits of the latest crop of higher-horsepower McCormicktractors that will be exhibited at The Ploughing – the Irish National Ploughing Championships being held on September 17-19 at Ballintrane, Co Carlow. The 205hp boosting to 225hp flagship of the McCormick X7 Series has been doing the rounds, impressing with the power and torque delivery from the six-cylinder Betapower engine produced by FPT Industrial, the successor… .... Read More

Irish Angus Exhibition Centre – THE place to be at the National Ploughing Championships 2019! - The Irish Angus Exhibition Centre at the National Ploughing Championships will be a hive of activity throughout the three-day event, featuring an impressive display of elite Irish Angus cattle, exhibits from secondary school students taking part in the Certified Irish Angus Schools Competition and much more! Schools competition The stand will host five secondary school student groups that are finalists in the next instalment of a unique agricultural competition which aims to encourage second level students to gain an… .... Read More

Kiernan Milling celebrating 40th Anniversary - Our 12th year at the ploughing…. Very family friendly stand….meet our kid goats, alpaca’s, lambs, ducks, pedigree animals, heifers, pups and hatching eggs over the three days. Family run business producing 365,000 tons of feed annually building new mill for additional 200,000 tons You Tube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcERikzd17LixIep1U_xGuQ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/kiernan.milling/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/KMStewarts/status/1170418495168946177 Instagram – https://instagram.com/p/B2RorA2CddQ/ .... Read More

Kiwi Country Clothing - We sell Farm boot socks you don’t wash Workwear farm coats which do not rear on barbed wire... a first for Ireland!! Hand made comfy underwear..fanny and Freddie Adam's Now working with a range of Irish hospitals providing solutions for pain control in hands feet, knees etc..which they confirm 100% success rate.. .... Read More

O’Donovan Engineering 40th years in business - This is our 40th year in business, a big deal for us as we move into the second generation of the O’Donovan family with Deirdre and Damien junior now leading figures in the company. At O’Donovan Engineering, our motto is “quality and innovation give us the edge” – and this is the standard we hold ourselves to. We have several patented products like our Cow Pow moving barrier system .... Read More

Craft Shapes Ireland Local Family Business to take a stand at the National Ploughing Championships for the first time - Craft Shapes Ireland is a family run business based on a family farm in Bunclody, 10 Miles from this years NPA site. Brain Child of husband and wife duo Melvin and Maria Porter the young business is to exhibit at the national ploughing for the first time this year. “ We are so excited at the thoughts of our young business to have its very own stand at the ploughing this year” Maria Said. “It has been on the bucket… .... Read More

SCHURR Cow-Brush - This year we do have a new SCHURR cow-brush with SOLAR PANEL with us! New product for Ireland - see pics attached. Best cow-comfort with "GREEN" power for Irish farmers. It's ideal for irish farmers to help to increase the milk performance of their irish cows! For further information please contact me. Or come to our booth #Block 2 #Row no. 1 #Stand no. 21 "Gorteade Cow Care" .... Read More

Waikato Milking Systems helps farmers convert to rotary milking platforms - Former Olympian Jamie Costin admits to being a bit nervous about the logistics of installing a new rotary milking machine to replace his tired herringbone system. “It was a big undertaking, I had electricians, plumbers and all sorts around our farm. I’m not a building site manager but I just took a lot of advice and learned on the job,” Jamie said. “In the end the installation was done efficiently and quickly, so I was happy.” The… .... Read More

AgriNet Celebrates 25 years - AgriNet, also known as IFC is celebrating 25 years in the agricultural I.T industry this year. AgriNet prides its self in keeping ahead of the curve when it comes to real–time herd and cash flow management, as well as Grassland management for international clients. The National Ploughing Championships is the ideal place to launch new and innovative products and services and this is where HerdApp was launched back in 2017. Two years on – HerdApp is the market leading software… .... Read More

Animax - Dr. Elizabeth Berry BVSC, PhD, MRCVS, Veterinary Director with Animaxconfirms that all of their Allsure® boluses contain Selenium Selenite and authorised for use with sheep, lambs, and cattle. Many farmers are unaware that since July 17, 2019 Selenium Selenite is the only Selenium approved by theEFSA (European Food Standard Agency)as a feed additive for use in sheep boluses sold in Britain, Ireland and the rest of Europe. So immediately check that the product you are using complies with these EU regulations.… .... Read More

THE ECOMONY AND YOU: PROGRESS OR PAIN? - Austin Hughes Chief Economist at KBC Bank Ireland will host a series of seminars at the KBC Dome on 2 days ( Block 4, no 345). THE ECOMONY AND YOU: PROGRESS OR PAIN? Wednesday 18th September 12:30pm & 2:30pm Thursday 19th September 12:30pm & 2:30pm .... Read More

“A home that ticks all the boxes” - Big Red Barn will next month introduce their new home to the market. A home that ‘ticks all the boxes’ - affordable; faster to build, low carbon footprint, customisable, reduces building waste by 52% and is delivered in a turn-key condition. Using modern methods of steel-frame constructionfrom fully and independently certified designs, the off-site manufacturing process significantly reduces overall construction time and costs. The house meets all Part L building regulations, designed to create an almost ‘zero energy’ home. Because… .... Read More

EcoPods launch their high-quality alternative to a permanent build at The National Ploughing Championship - EcoPods are a new Irish company, who in advance of their national launch are bringing their new product to the National Ploughing Championship on 17-19 September in Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow. This will be an opportunity for visitors to tour two EcoPods – one set up as a living space and one as a working space – and speak to the experts. EcoPods have worked with a German manufacturer to develop and create high-quality and energy efficient pods which are… .... Read More

Electric Scooters at Ploughing for the first time - As this is our 1st time exhibiting at the Plough championship we have an amazing giveaway for the attendees to take part in. You might have seen a lot of coverage about the legality of electric scooters on the news lately, Minister Ross recently announced a Public Consultation Process to decide if electric scooters (now classed as PPT's) should be legalized or not. So we are going to be giving away one of the top models of electric scooters The… .... Read More

Blacksmith Demonstrations in the Vintage Area - I am on stand 133 by the vintage area this year. I will be doing Blacksmith demonstrations and have some pieces on display. My primary focus is to keep my craft alive. In Ireland we have a very rich history of forged heritage ironwork, most noticeably around churches and buildings of historical interest. I am always received very well by the farming community as there would have been a strong affiliation between the blacksmith and farmer in the past. This… .... Read More

Glendun Plant Sales Limited first time ever at Ploughing - Glendun Plant Sales Limited, Dungannon, Co Tyrone, are dipping their toe in the water with their first ever appearance at a NPA event. Director of Sales and Marketing Dermot Cunnie commented : We visited the show last year at Tullamore and were very impressed not only with the footfall but with the range of exhibitors present and the excellent setup and logistics in place. We made a decision after 10 minutes that we would apply to exhibit in 2019. As… .... Read More

Husqvarna Automower® Treasure Hunt! - A Husqvarna Automower® is a machine you wouldn’t be incorrect to think has come from the future, space or even better, BOTH. When the geniuses at Sweden first came up with the concept a few heads took a sharp turn, but here we are over 20 years later. A point in human-kinds history where we are able to kick our feet up, sit back and enjoy ourselves while our Husqvarna Automower® maintains our lawn. This is instead of us having to… .... Read More

Hyundai Power Products - We are excited to be using the Show to launch our recent appointment as Irish Distributors for Hyundai Power Products. The range includes Generators, Welders, Compressors and Water Pumps, all of which will be on display on our stand Block 1 Row 21 Stand 475. Specialist technical representatives from Hyundai will be on hand to advise on product range and selection. More on our company and the Hyundai Power Equipment range can be found on https://cleanmachines.ie/power-equipment/ .... Read More

Launch of Kildare & Leighlin Diocesan Stand at the National Ploughing Championships 2019; 3:00p.m. August 15 - Bishop Denis Nulty and members of the Diocesan Ploughing Steering Group gathered today on the site of the National Ploughing Championships at Ballintrane, near Fenagh, Co Carlow to launch the Kildare & Leighlin Diocesan Stand. Bishop Denis is delighted to welcome the Ploughing Championships back to the diocese and is looking forward to hosting the Diocesan Stand 399, Block 3, Row 18, from September 17-19. The theme for this year’s Stand is ‘Digging Deeper – Rooting for Christ’ a continuation of… .... Read More

FRS Launch New Approach to Farm Staff Management - FRS Farm Relief are launching the new Farm Staff Partnership at the National Ploughing Championships this year. The Farm Staff Partnership is a fresh new approach by FRS to help farmers manage their year-round staffing requirements. Farmers now have the opportunity to get their staffing needs assessed by FRS farm staff management specialists and improvement plans put in-place. The vision is to provide a consistent FRS worker all year round for the days the farm needs them, with a commitment… .... Read More

McAree Engineering - The 2019 Ploughing Championships will see the launch of a number of innovative animal feed storage solutions by Monaghan based, McAree Engineering who design and manufacture the market leading V-Mac range of bulk feed storage silos. A new large, open top silo with a flip lid will be on display providing livestock farmers with a cost effective solution for holding home mixed feed. With a three M body and a heavy-duty lid incorporating a nine foot wide opening this silo… .... Read More

National Welly Throwing Comp with Portwest - Some of the highlights for us this year will include the firm favourite National Welly Throwing Championships which we host every year! This year we hope to have a record number attempt the challenge with local charities being the beneficiaries of the event, including Carlow Mental Health Association. This local charity works to promote positive mental health and support the existing mental health and suicide services in Carlow. With the support of local sports clubs in the area, Portwest is… .... Read More

New range of Bobcat AGRI telehandlers. - This year, we will have the official Irish launch of the new range of Bobcat AGRI telehandlers. We will have 3 x models on the stand for the first time ever and a number of people directly from the brand in attendance. In conjunction with this, Bobcat have launched a 5 year 0% Finance offer and % 5 Year warranty to help support the launch. .... Read More

New Doosan and Bobcat Machines at Ploughing Show - Adare Machinery, the Limerick-based Doosan and Bobcat dealer, will have the company’s largest ever stand at this year’s National Ploughing Championships, being held at Ballintrane, Fenagh in County Carlow, Ireland from 17-19 September 2019. This is the 88th National Ploughing Championships and it will feature the most impressive array of new Doosan and Bobcat products to be shown by Adare. The National Ploughing Championships takes place each year in the month of September. Since its inception in 1931, the show… .... Read More

New opportunities for farmers in premium grains - Glanbia Ireland plans to double the acreage of gluten-free oats Glanbia Ireland is aiming to extend the acreage sown to gluten-free oat crops amid increasing demand amongst consumers for these products. Farmers are being urged to come and talk to the Glanbia Ireland Agronomy Team at the Ploughing Championships - Block 2 - Row 5 - Stand 114 - to assess their farm’s suitability for growing the crop. “Gluten-free oats is a premium grain and delivers better opportunities for… .... Read More

Nurney National School Fundraising - Nurney national school who along with our partners St John's church and Nurney villa soccer club are fundraising at the ploughing with a draw with a holiday theme. We ve a €2000 holiday voucher, a bbq, a stena line voucher for a ferry trip and a hamper of local artisan products. We re located at catering area A near gate 5 and have lots of local prizes each day. Our goal is 2 fold. Theres the money aspect - the… .... Read More

Ombundsman for Children - We are delighted to be attending the Ploughing again this year. We are looking forward to meeting with children and young people from all over the country, as well as with parents and those who work with children. At our stand we will be carrying out children's rights workshops with small groups of children. These sessions have been really successful in recent years and get great engagement. We will be conducting surveys with children and we will be giving young… .... Read More

See the STIHL MS 500i electronically controlled fuel injection Chainsaw first at Ploughing Championships 2019! - STIHL have introduced the new chainsaw that every professional user will want – the MS 500i. The world’s first petrol chainsaw with electronically controlled fuel injection will be lighter than current saws, but will produce optimum performance, accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in only 0.25 seconds. You can see this saw at ISE Forest & Garden’s stand located at Block 3, Row 25, Stand 582. With no need for a carburettor, the saw delivers the fuel in a much more… .... Read More

Shanahan Power Ltd has been appointed, in the last few weeks, as the Irish Dealer for JCB’s Power Product Range of Diesel Generators. - We are using the Ploughing Championships as our Platform for the Product Launch to give us a chance to introduce the JCB Generator Range into the market place, raise product awareness, raise awareness of Shanahan Power and show the benefits of using the JCB Range of Diesel Generators. Shanahan Power Ltd was set-up in February 2016 and has being growing steadily in the marketplace each year since then. Based in County Limerick but servicing all of Ireland. We recently completed… .... Read More

STIHL BR 800 C-E – The most powerful professional blower from STIHL can be seen for the first time at Ploughing Championships 2019 - The new BR 800 is STIHL’s most powerful backpack blower to date. Designed with both power and comfort in mind, this machine is a fantastic choice for local authorities, landscapers and contractors with enough strength to take on the toughest jobs with ease. You can see this new powerful blower at ISE Forest & Garden’s stand located at Block 3, Row 25, Stand 582. With a blowing force of 41 N (BR 700 is 35 N), the BR 800 is… .... Read More

Vogelsang Ireland will be hosting continuous workshops on the ExaCut distributor - Vogelsang Ireland will be hosting continuous workshops on the ExaCut distributor covering aspects of design, operation and preventative maintenance. The demonstration is a great opportunity for farmers, contractors and staff from slurry machinery manufacturer/dealers to get a better understanding of the ExaCut’s components and functions to ensure optimal performance in the farm. The ExaCut precision distributor is the heart of spreading systems. Efficient and flexible spreading is achieved with the ExaCut as it evenly and constantly distributes slurry to the… .... Read More

Facts & Figures

Below are some of the Facts & Figures from the event:
*These figures refer to an economic report carried out in 2011. In 2019 over 100,000 more visitors attended the event.

Visitors to the Championships spent just under €36.5 million during the three days of the event. This spending resulted in a tax take of over €6.6 million for the National Exchequer
80% of attendees at the event were not local
Gender profile is 37% female, 63% male
Machinery is the main attraction in the Trade Exhibition
Personal shopping accounted for over €7 million
Trade purchases were in excess of €9.6 million
Food expenditure accounted for €9.5 million

The breakdown of the socio-economic groupings attending are as follows: