Lots for Young People at Iverk
There is so much more to Agricultural Show than adults leading horse and cattle round in a ring being judged for best conformation. This is certainly the case at Iverk Show as there is so much in this year’s schedule of classes for young people and children.
In the Arts and Crafts there are competitions for primary and secondary school pupils. In fact the Secondary schools compete for the Munster Express perpetual trophy. €200 goes to the winning school.
There are classes for knitting, crochet, drawing, creative writing, computer design, engineering, poetry, woodwork and so much more. There are classes for items from Special Schools. They are jointly sponsored by Piltown Credit Union, Dick Lonergan, Kennington Joinery and Gay Doyle Construction.
Competitions for schools at Iverk Show go back at least 145 years. The Irish Times of October 4, 1871 reports the following result
“To the boy, attending the National School at Boolyglass, who, shall grow in the school garden the best crop of mangolds, turnips, parsnips, carrots, onions, and cabbage (not less than six competitors). First prize of 5s shillings to G Roche; second, Thomas Roche.
To the boy attending the National School at Clonmore, ditto; first prize of 5 shillings to Austin Walsh; second Nicholas Walsh.
To the boy attending the National School at Whitechurch, ditto; first prize of 5 shillings to Charles Maher; second, Martin Merry.”
If your interest is in baking then the Odlums, Goodall’s, Shamrock and Fruitfield sponsored junior classes are a must. From Gingerbread Men to Muffins, Scones and Apple Tarts the first prize is now €15 – an increase of some 6000% since 1871!!
If flower arranging or photography is your interest there are also opportunities for you to compare your skills against other like minded young people. Can you design a miniature garden or using your imagination, create a ‘creature’ from garden plant material such as flowers, fruit of vegetables.
In the photography classes the theme is ‘open’. This means you choose the subject you which to photograph. You will be rewarded with up to €15 first prizes courtesy of Coghlan’s pharmacy, Brett’s Hardware, Tina’s Florists and Living Colours.
If you are interested in livestock there are classes for you. You can show your dog or have a go at the agility tests. You need to practice at home. Set up a few little jumps in the garden and make sure your dog is obedient. It is of course great fun as Michael O’Brien & Co will testify.
Have you sheep at home? There is a class for you to exhibit your handling skills. Get practicing.
For young dairy farmers there is the Y.M.A (I.H.F.A.) Showmanship Leagues. These are judged on preparation and presentation of a calf. First Choice Genetics are involved here. ABP want to find the best Young Beef Stockperson which is also judged on preparation and presentation of a calf.
No show would be complete without ponies. Catering for riders of all ages of riders and size of ponies there are riding classes, working hunter classes and of course show jumping competitions.
If you are too young for these, Mammy or Daddy can enter you in the Mulligan and Haven Pharmacies’ Bonny Baby competition.
Having started showing hens and helping my uncle with Hereford cattle at Bray and Enniskerry Shows in the 1950’s I still enjoy showing and especially helping young people to do the same.
You can find all the details on our website www.iverkshow.ie and look forward to seeing you in Piltown on the 27th August
