Laura’s Rose of Tralee dreams wilt in Portlaoise
Hundreds of people turned out in Portlaoise to greet the 60 Roses at the Rose of Tralee Regional Festival over the June Bank Holiday weekend, however there was disappointment for County Cavan as word filtered through that our Rose, Laura Galligan didn’t made it through to the national finals of the Rose of Tralee.
Although the Drung lady wowed the crowd with her quick wit, fabulous style and her fantastic self penned poem about Cavan, she was unfortunately pipped to the post as only 23 Roses were selected to progress to the national finals. The only Irish counties chosen at the event were Carlow, Clare, Donegal, Galway, Laois and Leitrim.
‘Proud as punch’
Speaking after the event an upbeat Laura said, “I’m absolutely exhausted but I had a wonderful weekend, it was an amazing experience. I met some of the most fantastic lassies that I know will be friends of mine for for a lifetime. Obviously I’m gutted and disappointed that I haven’t reached the finals in Tralee, especially for the people of Cavan who wanted to have someone in the dome again. However I’m proud to be the Cavan Rose of 2014 and I’ll be in Tralee flying the Breffni Blue flag no matter what.”
Disappointmen
Judging by social media at the weekend it’s clear that many people were disappointed with the judging system as very few Irish based Roses make it through to the finals. Laura agreed. “It’s a pity so little Irish roses get through but that’s the rules unfortunately. Ulster had nine amazing girls representing them and for only one to get through is a disappointment. But as the saying goes once a Rose, always a Rose. The whole Rose Of Tralee experience is a once in a lifetime event. Thanks once again to all my fantastic sponsors and a massive thanks to my family, friends and work colleagues who made the trip to Portlaoise with their hilarious banners and kept the place in high spirits with their cheers for me. Finally I’d just like to say a big thanks to all the people of Cavan whom sent best wishes and to Angela, Kathleen and all at the Cavan Rose centre for their support. I’m looking forward to a wonderful year as the Cavan Rose and hope I’ll do ye all proud. Once again a huge thanks to the Cavan Rose Centre and to all my wonderful sponsors who have been so generous. An Cabhán Abú.” she said.