Entries can now be submitted for Tipperary Rose contest

The search has begun to find the new Rose of Tipperary who will represent the county at the International Rose of Tralee Festival in August.

Reigning Tipperary Rose Aisling O’Donovan from Fethard is preparing to hand over her sash to her successor, who will be chosen at the Tipperary Rose contest final in the Anner Hotel in Thurles on March 24.

Aisling has been a wonderful ambassador for the Premier County during her two-year term.

Due to changes in the rules of the Rose of Tralee contest, the Tipperary Rose is now only chosen once every two years.

The primary school teacher encouraged other young women from the county to walk in her shoes as she officially launched the Tipperary Rose contest last week. Closing date for submitting entries to the contest is March 2.

Aisling said becoming the Tipperary Rose was one of the proudest moments of her life so far.

“Representing my county on a local, national and international level is a fantastic feeling that words can’t even describe.

“This was not only on a personal growth and confidence level but the friendships I have made for life, along with the many, many reunions and events I have attended with my fellow roses and rose escorts. They range from the week in Tralee to the opening of the German Christmas Markets in Frankfurt and walking in the St Patrick’s Day Parade on Fifth Avenue in New York.

“Although the reign has lasted two years, it has also opened the time for us to attend each others’ life events including weddings and numerous getaways, let alone a hopping WhatsApp group,” she continued.

“I would recommend the festival to anyone; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and so much more than what you see on television.

“You get to meet so many amazing people, do some amazing things, and become an inspiration to so many girls and women.

“So I would say to anyone who has ever thought about becoming a Rose, don’t miss out on something great just because of fear. It’s your time; new year, new you, just apply.”

The changes to the Rose of Tralee contest rules mean that there are no longer regional finals so the Tipperary Rose chosen on March 24 will qualify directly for the Rose of Tralee final in The Dome in Tralee.

The entry age limit has also increased to 29 years. You can enter once you’ve not reached your 30th birthday by September 1 this year.

The new Tipperary Rose will travel via the Rose tour to the International Rose of Tralee Festival and will take part in all the parades, official events, and numerous public engagements in Tralee during the festival that runs from Friday, August 16 to Tuesday, August 20.

A total of 32 Roses from all over Ireland and the world will take part in the final in The Dome.

The team that coordinate the Tipperary Rose competition, meanwhile, have paid tribute to Aisling for the way she represented her county over the past two years.

“Aisling has been a true lady and credit to her community throughout her extended time as reigning Tipperary Rose of Tralee,” said the organisers.

“She was a great ambassador for her family, county Tipperary, and south Tipperary and we want to thank everyone for getting behind her on her trip to Tralee.

“This year is a big year for the county as there are big changes continued which will mean we will only have a Tipperary rose once every two years.

“But this year is a great opportunity for any young lady to enjoy this once in a lifetime experience in the full.”

Applications to enter the Tipperary Rose contest are available on the Rose of Tralee website: www.roseoftralee.ie For further information text (086) 387 1635 or DM @tipperaryroseoftralee.