This article is from page 33 of the 2009-07-14 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 33 JPG
THE nineteenth annual South East Clare show is all set to go again in Bridgetown and preparations are now almost complete for what prom- ises to be a great family day out on July 26.
The first show was in 1990 and the event has only missed one year and that was because of foot and mouth.
At the launch of this year’s show on Friday, the main sponsor, Tom Marsh of Marsh quarries in Broadford was on hand to do the official duty.
“Now highly regarded among the show fraternity, the South East Clare show has a place in the top ten shows in the country,’ said Show Secretary, Pat Duggan.
Catriona Bourke of Yarfield in Clonlara is in charge of the 22 classes in the horse show, including five All Ireland qualifiers and the Limerick Lady Champion 200 qualifier. There will be three driving classes under the supervision of Pat Hayes.
Helen O’Neill will be looking af- ter the working hunter/performance working hunter/show hunter ponies, show riding and side saddle classes, as well as the local pony and lead rein classes.
There are 24 classes in all and this section has attracted huge interest every year.
Show jumping is in the capable hands of Davnet Kiernan O’Brien and there are big entries also expect- ed in this section, which has sixteen ES
Conor Hayes is in charge of the cat- tle section, which has 27 classes.
The dog show portfolio will be looked after by Jim Lonergan and this year there are 13 qualifiers, in- cluding the Gain Dog Food All Ire- land Championship qualifier.
At the launch on Friday was one of the beautifully preserved vintage cars, which will form a new section in the show this year, looked after by enthusiast, Joe English.
Secretary of the ladies section, Bernie English is looking after the home baking section of the show as well as flower section, while Mary Speight will deal with the horticul- tural section.
There is plenty of fun for the youngsters as well, with dodgems
and swings, as well as nine classes including Little Miss, Bonny Baby and children’s fancy dress.
Of course, the judges will be watch- ing out for the best dressed lady.
When show-goers get worn out from the various classes and need refreshment, there are full catering facilities on site.
“The show committee is most ap- preciative of the land owners, the Moynihan and Keenahan families. Without their help it just couldn’t go
on. The committee would also like to thank our sponsors and particular- ly the main sponsor, Tom Marsh, for all they have done,” said Pat.