Competition time whets the appetites at Speakeasy Toastmasters

LIKE thousands of other sporting and social events, Speakeasy Toastmasters 25th Anniversary Celebration Night fell foul of Storm Emma and was postponed.

Sadly, the red weather warning was issued after the print deadline for publication. Thankfully, this event is now scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 14 in the Hibernian Hotel.

In the meantime, it is full steam ahead for Speakeasy Toastmasters. On tonight Thursday, March 8, ST are hosting their Annual Speech and Evaluation Contests.

Toastmasters prides itself for hosting meetings that are friendly and relaxed. Speakers compete only with themselves - improving their communication skills step by step. However, twice a year they turn up the temperature and host competitions which both challenge and entertain.

The International Speech Contest which ultimately leads to the World Championship Public Speaking Finals in America requires the speaker to present a speech with a strong message.

In the past, Speakeasy has been well represented at the District 71 (Ireland and Britain) Final. In 2016,Kieran Butler finished third with his ode to a single life. In 2004 and 2005, Deirdre Linehan finished in the top three with fine performances. In 1999, Pat Sexton represented the club in the District Final.

In this year’s competition, a range of speakers will cross verbal swords for the honour of representing the club in future rounds in Cork and Munster.

In the Evaluation Contest, evaluators will pitch their skills and evaluate a guest speaker and provide him with appropriate feedback.

Over the years, several members have reached the District Final, including Michael Cronin and Pat Sexton who both finished in second place.

So, if you are looking for a night of entertainment, inspiration and reflection, look no further than Speakeasy Toastmasters Speech and Evaluation Contest Night which takes place tonight Thursday, March 8 in the Hibernian Hotel at 8pm.

As always, guests are welcome to come and watch and will not be obliged to speak.

For further information, check out the website, speakeasytoastmasters.com or Facebook. Alternatively, please contact President Helsa Giles - 083 885 8848.