Granard Show chairperson heaps praise on ‘loyal sponsors’ and ‘dedicated volunteers’
.jpeg?trim=14,0,14,0&crop=&width=640&quality=70&enable=upscale)
‘The unity of past traditions and perspectives is one of the key components that continues to allow Granard Show to develop from strength to strength’
Over the years Granard Agricultural Show has developed to become one of the top shows in the Midlands and Chairperson Gerry Tully proudly declared that the reason for this is ’due to its tradition and the culmination of enormous collective efforts dating back to 1950 when it started’.
The organisers of the 76th anniversary Granard Show are confident of building on that success by delivering a programme that has something for everyone.
The show plays a huge part in the community life of Granard. Steered by a dedicated committee the people of Granard bond together for a show that's a part of the town's identity.
Addressing guests at the show launch in the Bay Horse Pub on Thursday night, June 18, Gerry outlined, “The unity of past traditions and perspectives is one of the key components that continues to allow Granard Show to develop from strength to strength.”
He thanked their ‘loyal sponsors’. “This event would not be possible without our loyal sponsors who invest in our show each year. To our main sponsor Tom McNally Motors Longford, our sincere thank you.
“To Minister Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, we thank you for your generous grant to help in the running of our show. To all our other sponsors, I say thank you for your continued support to ensure the survival of Granard Show. To Freda Kinnarney Irish Shows Association President, Jim Harrison ISA National Secretary the Midlands Region and board representatives, we thank you for your hard work and dedication to all shows.”
The Granard Show programme of events for 2026 incorporates many elements including cattle, sheep, equine, dog show, cookery, art and photography, knitting, kids entertainment and much more.
Gerry explained, “In the equine section we have over 60 classes, including ISA All-Ireland Qualifiers. In the cattle section, we have 45 classes together with an All Ireland Young Stock Person qualifier. We have over 30 classes in the sheep section. The dog show is a huge attraction each year with entries taken on Show day. The school's competition is always a great attraction and is a great way for our youngsters to showcase their arts and crafts.”
Gerry said ‘strength in unity’ was a vital ingredient for the show’s hardworking committee.
READ ALSO: Granard Show celebrates the people who ‘nurture our countryside and build sustainable futures’
“As Chairperson, let me express my great appreciation and thanks to all members of our committee for their dedication, the serious participation, cooperation, flexibility, constructiveness and understanding and (neart le chéile) - strength in unity.
“As always, in the build up to Show Day and indeed, on the day itself, we think of our predecessors who left us the legacy of Granard Show. We thank them for their foresight and hope we are continuing to make them proud.”
Gerry concluded on a positive upbeat note. “Let’s hope the Granard Agricultural Show is another great success, so I say thank you to all involved and look forward to welcoming everyone that comes through our gates on Saturday next.”
The 76th Granard Agricultural Show takes place on Saturday, July 18 at Higginstown, Granard, with the eagerly anticipating Showjumping events taking centre stage on Sunday, July 19.