Granard Show launch hears that 'shows have evolved into an event’

Arva man Ray Brady is President of the Irish Shows Association and he attended the launch of the Granard Show last Thursday evening.

He outlined the importance of shows to their local area. “Shows have evolved into an event. They have a cultural, economic and social aspect,” he stated.

“The show I am involved in, Arva show, is the focal point of the area,” Ray added.

Ray praises the voluntary effort that has kept the Granard Show on the road for so long. “The fact that the Granard Show has been held 73 times is a testament to the vision of the people who started the show, as well as present day volunteers,” he stated.

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Ray stresses the importance of young people getting involved in shows.

“I am a champion of getting young people involved in shows. There are also older people who have skill sets that could be used. Shows need to keep an eye on getting new people involved,” Ray commented.

While praising “the resilience” of many shows, Ray is too well aware of the challenges involved.

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“Getting sponsorship is a challenge. Ensuring that lands are available is also important. Insurance is another vital aspect, shows can’t be run without insurance,” he stated.

Ray was appointed President of the Irish Show Association in November 2022 and he will serve until November 2024.

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“I attended 35 shows throughout the country last year. I have already attended up to 15 shows this year. However, first of all, I am an Arva show man. I am a member of the show. I will be helping out with things such as parking cars when we hold our show on July 28,” he commented.

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