The build-up for the All Ireland and International Sheep Shearing Championships has begun. Tuam's West Wing, Galway Road hosted the official launch on Saturday 5th April, 2008. Invited guests and the general public were treated to a Cheese & Wine reception by the host restaurant and then came the very special appearance of one of the night's guests of honour, the remarkably well behaved Furry the ewe. Eyebrows were raised and laughter abounded with the novelty appearance of our pink - yes pink - twinkled toed friend.
George Graham, representative of the Irish Sheep Shearing Association stated how delighted he was this year's event will be part of the Royal Welsh and Northern Irish Circuits, and the prospect of this year's wool-handling winners going on to compete in Norway.
Chairman of Caherlistrane Sheep Shearing Committee, Tony O'Connor, welcomed all in attendance and praised the generosity of all event sponsors, in particular major contributors Osmonds Veterinary Remedies in association with Murphy's John Deere Dealership, Headford.
The chairman thanked competition sponsors Kepak Group, Headford Co-Op Mart, H & R Construction, Quinn Group, John O'Connor Agri Advisor, Tuam, McHale Engineering, A.C.C. Bank, Kavanagh Construction, Terence O'Neill Tractor Sales, Frank Mortimer Ltd., Connacht Gold, and Joyces Supermarkets & Hardware.
Tony boasted that the All Ireland and International Sheep Shearing Championships 2008 promises to be one of the best ever. Patrons will be able to enjoy much more than simply shearing. It is hoped to host an open Tug of War Competition, Sheep Dog Trials, trade exhibitions, demonstrations, a fun fair and much more.
A witty Sean Keane officially launched the event, showing shearers how it is really done by 'shearing' our other special guest in record time!!
All in attendance then enjoyed a number of songs from the world-celebrated Caherlistrane musician, before dancing the night away to the music of "Trad at Heart".
Click here to see the Camel Race night.
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| Secretary | Bernie Moran | 087 2855154 |
| Treasurer | Peter Corcoran | 087 9625756 |
| Chairperson | Tony O' Connor | 087 2855583 |
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