New venue for Athlone Agri Show which takes place this weekend
IT'S ALL systems go for this year's Athlone Agri Show which takes place on Sunday.
The final preparations are in place in advance of the event which has moved to a new venue, Frankie Donoghue's farm in Baylin.
The popular event had been held on the Gaffeys farm in Moydrum for the past 16 years and there is plenty of anticipation in advance of the new venue.
There is much talk in agricultural circles that the cattle section will return this year, after an absence of one year. There will be two All-Ireland competitions: the super beef heifer (sponsored by Kepak) and the super beef bullock (sponsored by Michael Moore Car Sales). There will also be an All-Ireland in sheep – the Belgian Beltex championship.
There are 52 bovine classes and 50 bovine classes this year. Last year, over 700 horses went through the gates and similar numbers are expected this year.
“The committee is working hard to ensure everything runs smoothly on the day,” said show secretary Gillian Kinahan. “All we want is a fine day. Thankfully the weather is promised good.”
She added: “It is a long established show in Athlone. So many shows have gone by the wayside so it's great that we are still going.”
In addition to the various agricultural events, there promises to be something for everyone on the day.
Events will include free pony rides, a magic show, puppet show, face painting, pets' corner and a dog show. There will also be a vintage display and sheepdog trial presentations.
Music will be provided by Stephen Rosney & the Back Axles, while the Rose of Tralee Jennifer Byrne will open the show.
The show will host one of the qualifiers for ‘The Home Cook of The Year’ competition, with TV3 chef Joe Shannon judging on the day and giving demonstrations. This will be in conjunction with the Made in the Midlands food Village which is co-ordinated by Martin Monaghan.
“Local restaurants and food producers will be exhibiting in it,” said Gillian.
The venue will be signposted and there are three ways of getting there – out the Mullingar Road, by Baylin School and out the Mount Temple Road.
“We have plenty of parking. We have two separate fields,” said Gillian.
The event will start with the show classes at 10am and activities will continue throughout the day. Entry is €10 for adults and children are free.