Celebrating 50 years of the Rose of Tralee

Are you a modern women between the ages of 18 and 27 who is ambitious, intellectual, socially responsible and proud of their Irish heritage while representing their county on a national and international platform. Then, now is your chance to become the next Westmeath Rose with an opportunity to go forward to the Rose of Tralee International Festival in August. Steve Cronly, Rose of Tralee National Co-ordinator said: 'We are inviting every young woman in Westmeath to join us for a fun-filled experience that could lead to being selected International Rose of Tralee.' 'This year"s event has an added significance as we will be celebrating 50 Years of the Rose of Tralee International Festival (1959-2009),' he added. The reigning Rose of Tralee, Aoife Kelly, said: 'The whole experience from becoming the Tipperary Rose through the Irish Regional Final to the Rose Tour and the Rose of Tralee Festival itself was amazing.' 'I would encourage anyone who is eligible to take part in 2009 as you will make lots of friends and take away many wonderful memories and have the time of your life,' said Aoife. The 2009 Westmeath Rose will receive an amazing range of jewellery from our very loyal sponsor Newbridge Silverware and a cash prize of €1000 kindly sponsored by Athlone Springs Hotel , a luxury four star 'Lifestyle Hotel' in the heart of Ireland To enter simply complete an application form and return it to us with a modest entry fee of €250 made payable to Kerry Rose Festival by Sunday 8th of March. We are inviting clubs, societies, associations, businesses, family or friends to nominate a contestant. 'I am confident we will introduce at least 20 wonderful young women at the Gala Rose Ball which takes place on Saturday, April 4 at the magnificent Athlone Springs Hotel,' said Paula Gannon, Westmeath Rose co-ordinator 'The selection of the Westmeath Rose will take place on Friday, April 17, at the Athlone Springs Hotel and our Westmeath Rose winner will contest the Irish Regional Final in The Portlaois Heritage Hotel in June'. This year the Westmeath Rose committee has nominated the Adult Training Centre, St. Hilda"s Services for the mentally disabled as its charity and is very privileged to be associated with such a unique bunch of people. The Westmeath Independent is this year"s media sponsor and is delighted to support the competition. Completed applications forms should be submitted to Paula Gannon, Derrylahan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, with an entry fee of €250. The closing date for applications is Sunday, March 15. For further information please telephone Paula Gannon on 087 9886425 or email Paula on gannonpaula@hotmail.com