NEW KERRY ROSE BLOOMS IN CORK
DELIGHT FOR MILLSTREET TEACHER MARY
A 26-YEAR old primary school teacher from the heart of Sliabh Lauchra is to fly the flag for Kerry at that year’s International Rose of Tralee Festival.
A shell-shocked Mary Hickey from Rathmore was chosen as the 2014 Kerry Rose at a gala ceremony at Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Friday night, much to the elation of friends and family who had come to support her.
Describing the judges’ decision as overwhelming, the Millstreetbased teacher said she was honoured to be chosen from such an incredible group of ladies.
“They are such an amazing bunch of women and every one of them has done so much, so I’m amazed, overwhelmed and privileged to have been chosen from such an amazing bunch, “she said. It’s unbelievable.”
Since her selection on Friday night, Mary has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support - as has her proud mum Marian and big brother Liam.
“It’s been absolutely unbelievable and I’m so humbled by the whole thing. They even had a celebration for my mum at work at Pobal Scoil Sliabh Lauchra and she deserves every bit of it because she’s been my rock,” she said.
“Of course, the kids in Presentation National School in Millstreet were amazing, too, and there’s even Kerry flags flying in Millstreet for the first time ever.”
When not in school, Mary is a leader of the local social action group, works as a volunteer with Barretstown Camp for children with special needs and - not altogether surprising given her Sliabh Luachra roots - is also an accomplished concertina player. Mary is also an avid theatre fan and is a member of the Marian Players Pantomime Group and the Glen Theatre.
Mary is now eagerly looking forward to the international festival competition in August. “It’s been such an experience. The past few weeks has been unforgettable and I’m just honoured to have been chosen,” she said.