The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Monika says: ‘I’ll be back for Puck!’
WHILE her rowing keeps her busy, double World Champion and local hero Monika Dukarska has said she’ll be back in Killorglin for Puck Fair from August 10 to 12, fitting given that she is this year’s festival ambassador.
The iconic annual festival is more than 400 years old, and its launch takes place on Friday evening with its launch at The Old Forge in Killorglin from 9pm.
One of the VIP guests on the evening will be this year’s Queen of Puck Fair, Caitlin Horgan of Scoil Mhuire in Killorglin.
Caitlin will be joined by the Lady-in-Waiting, Lily-Sue Eyers, a pupil of Douglas National School, and John Bowe of important sponsor Diageo.
Monika won’t be there on Friday. The Polish native, who moved to Kerry at age 16, will be competing in Switzerland at the time, though she has pledged to appear via video.
“The good news is that the month of August is quieter than the rest of the summer,” the superb rower said this week, “meaning I’ ll have a little bit of time off for Puck!”
Puck Fair Chairperson Declan Mangan has been involved with the voluntary committee for 30 years now, and the long-standing Chair explained that he is not tired in the slightest at being a part of it all.
“There’s a reason I keep returning to this post year in, year out – it’s a hugely important part of Killorglin’s past and present and it is a great deal of fun,” he said.
“I get such a thrill out of seeing visitors flock to the town each August to witness the crowning of King Puck and to see what our beautiful town has to offer. It brings locals and tourists together and highlights Killorglin as an important focal point within the Irish tourism industry.
“Highlights this year include musical entertainment in the town square Brass & Co on August 10, The Elvis Spectacular Show on Friday August 11, and The Ultimate Garth Brooks Experience on August 12.
“There will also be a wide range of children’s entertainment taking place in the town across the three days of the festival as well as market stalls, street performances and a host of activities for all the family.
“From yearly rituals such as the Horse Fair and the all-important public crowning of the King Puck goat, to street performances, musical acts and endless children’s entertainment, people of all ages visiting our charming town at this special time of year can expect a truly memorable experience,” the Festival Chairperson added.
Information and updates on this can be found at www. puckfair.ie in the lead up to the festival.
For pictures and live updates, you can follow check out www. facebook.com/puckfair or on twitter at @puck_fair, and you can also visit YouTube to view puckfairofficial’s videos.