Competitors from the four corners of Ireland compete at Longford ploughing spectacular in Ballymahon

The 89th County Longford Ploughing Championships hosted by the Delaney family in Ballymahon, and sponsored by P&J Finnegan Car Sales, attracted the largest crowd ever to gather at Longford Ploughing.

A fantastic turnout of happy spectators and over 70 loy and ploughing entries, the event's success is testament to the tremendous support the committee received from all sectors of the community.

Longford Ploughing Association PRO Luke Casey remarked, “Browsing through the score-sheets, it’s amazing to see Matthew Simms from Donegal, Allen McNally, Nigel Gamble and Martin Beatty from Ballyclare in Antrim and Eoin Reardon from Cork all travel long journeys to compete in ploughing competitions.

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“Add in our special guest; European Reversible Gold Medalist, Dan Donnelly from Wexford and we have all four corners of Ireland and everywhere in between in action at the Ploughing competitions in Drinan.”

Spectators visited the ploughing competition plots in huge numbers, which is something unique to Longford Ploughing.

With the loy diggers, four teams of horses ploughing and a range of vintage and modern tractors operating different types of plough, the Delaney family farm hosted a living museum of cultivation which reflected many developments in ploughing since ancient times.

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Tracey and James Finnegan put Sammy from Lucky Day and Conor from Grassmen into action on Paddy Finnegan’s Major tractor. Natural entertainers, they added a touch of excitement to a reality ploughing challenge, while recording their adventure for their online promotions.

Tyre Warrior was surrounded all day long. Sammy & Conor moved around greeting everyone.

From the moment they arrived in the morning they sparked impromptu treasure hunts, with eyes searching the exhibition for their YouTube idols.

The most appropriately dressed lady, sponsored by Chrissie McCormack, was won by Grace Moorhead. Daniel Lyons won the most appropriately dressed gent sponsored by Claffey's Ballymahon.

From big machinery to small crafts and community organisations, the exhibitors created something special.

Everyone’s input was invaluable in captivating visitors. Families stayed browsing until late in the evening, appreciating and enjoying everything the community around us put together.

The Dog show, sponsored by Egan Tyres & Service Station, attracted stylish visitors from far and wide.

Katlyn Hannon from Galway scooped the Reserve Champion and Sarah Browne from Galway won Champion of the Show.

Top spot in the non-pedigree section went to Liam Black from Thurles. Champion gun dog prize went to Marie Hanmore from Co Galway. Thank you to everyone who supported the Dog Show and made a wonderful day.

A big thank you to all sponsors, stewards and everyone who joined together and put the community spirit in Ballymahon & Longford on the top of the world.

Queen of the Plough
The ‘Queen of the Plough’ dance is on Saturday night, April 19 in The Rustic Inn with live music by Simon Casey and his band.#

Join us to celebrate the achievements of all ploughing winners and the crowning of the '62nd Queen of the Plough' with a great night's dancing.

All profits plus a raffle will go to Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club and Longford Scuba Divers. Tickets at €15 are available from any sub aqua club member or from Longford Ploughing Association.

There is a special door prize draw for €500, sponsored by Nally’s Circle K, so everyone is in with a lucky chance. Remember to get your tickets soon.