Amazing line up of events and competitions

OVER the past eight decades, horses and ponies have played a large part in the annual show. There are a large number of classes for horses both hunters and young horses, mares and classes for all sorts of ponies- big and small.

One of the show’s oldest cups is awarded for the Best Brood Mare with Foal at foot- that cup is the Dublin/Wicklowmens Association Cup which was presented to the Show Society in 1947. Two other sought after trophies were the Murphy Cup presented by the family of the late Peter Murphy - the Show’s first secretary and the Michael Walsh Cup presented by one of the Show’s founder members. The Red Mills Two Year Old Horse All Ireland Final will be one of the highlights of the day.

Horse Show Jumping commences at 10 a.m. in the main arena and Pony Show Jumping Competitions for newcomers and unregistered ponies takes place at 12 p.m. Entries will be taken on the field with Rosettes and prizes for the winners. The Phelan Cup will also be presented in this arena.

In the afternoon, teams will compete in the Pony Club Mounted Games. Young visitors to the show usually find this a most entertaining part of the Show as they all get involved and shout for their favourite team. This event requires not just great individual skill but great team work as each team involved competes for the top prize. This competition is more thrilling and exciting than any wild west show or rodeo.

In the craft and home industries area there will be plenty to engage the foodie or sewing, knitting or baker in the family.

The quilty marquee and the Food From Our Farms areas are particular favourites.

For those who love entertainment, then look no further than the Ferrywagon, situated in the Food Court and always guaranteed to create a festival atmosphere.

From the Punch and Judy Show to a Ceili and trad session accompanying all types of dance, there will be something to suit all tastes.

Situated right in the heart of the show grounds, it thrills and enthrals visitors to the show with a most amazing line up of events and competitions during the day.

Many of the contestants are volunteers from the crowd itself. From the ‘Baby Show ‘to ‘You’re a Star’ for 8 to 12 year olds and the ‘Most Glamorous Granny’ there is something for every age group.

In recent years the show has even become something of a fashion extravaganza with the ‘Most Appropriately Dressed Lady and Gent’ and bringing a real sense of style to the show.

One of the Ferry Wagons highlights is the ‘live’ crowning of the Show Queen at 3 p.m.

The list is endless with the ‘Little Miss’ and ‘Little Master’ competition followed by ‘The Parent and Child Lookalike’ event to but a few of the attractions.

Don’t miss this great favourite for so many of the shows visitors and who knows you just might find yourself up there in front of a real live audience!

Entries will be taken for all competitions from 12.30 - 2.30 p.m.

An array of great prizes will be up for grabs in each section so if you have a glamorous granny or a beautiful baby, then make sure to stop by.

This year’s Tinahely Show Queen will be crowned at 3 p.m. on stage.

Entertainment will continue late into the night with live performances by country and western favourites Derek Ryan, Louise Morrissey, Teresa and the Stars and After Dark. For full listings see www. tinahelyshow.ie and use #tinahely17 on social media.

Early bird online tickets are still available until August 2 for €10 or €40 for a family of five. Admission for students and OAPS is €10. Free entry for children (u12) Admission on day: adult €15.