Countdown to Cappamore Show
Cappamore Show Press launch took place in Hayes’, Cappamore, recently. This is an occasion when the show committee expresses its thanks and appreciation for the support and encouragement of its sponsors. It’s a night when members get the chance to meet the sponsors and interact in a relaxed, social setting.
The evening opened with John Hassett, Chairperson, welcoming everyone. He then called on Pat Fogarty, Acting President, to address the gathering. Pat referred to his predecessor Jimmy McCarthy, RIP, who was the last of the founder members to remain actively involved in the show since its inception in 1954. Pat welcomed the newly-elected Mayor of Limerick, Gerald Mitchell. Show Treasurer PJ Blackwell reminded us that last year the show cost €99,000 to run. Therefore the support of our sponsors is vital. John Hassett announced that this year the show is being presented with three new trophies.
Gerald Mitchell presented Seán Ryan with a cup to be awarded in the Simmental Cattle Section. Sam Milburn presented Mary Berkery with a shield to be awarded in the Dog Section of the show. This was in memory of his wife Mary, who went to her eternal reward in March and who was a dog-lover. The Kennedy family presented a trophy to be awarded in the Irish Draught Horse Section in memory of Rody Kennedy, Rearcross, a great horseman in his day. Rody’s wife Ann presented this trophy to Pat Fogarty.
John Hassett acknowledged the support of the businesses in the village, stressing the community aspect of this local event.
This year the show welcomes our Ukrainian residents to the event, where they will have a stand showcasing their art, craft, food and culture. St Michael’s Day Care Centre will be the partner charity this year and will receive a percentage of our raffle takings. Doon Social Farm will also have a stand at the show, displaying its produce and advertising the very many courses run on its campus. John also mentioned the support of the Limerick Local Enterprise Office, the grants bestowed by the Dept of Rural and Community Development, the guidance of the Irish Shows Association and the support of Limerick City and County Council.
This year the show will have a new Green Village where sustainable businesses and enterprises can advertise their green credentials.
This year some members of this totally volunteer committee gave of their time to be trained up in the new Irish Shows Platform, allowing all entries to be made online. This new innovation will make it easier for both patrons and members to be part of an efficient and successful show.
Entries can be made through the show website-www.cappamoreshow.ie. For up-to-the-minute news on the show check out Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Thanks to Hayes’ for hosting the launch of the event and for the delicious food served. Photographs were taken of all present to record this moment in time.
Looking forward to seeing you all at the Show Grounds in Ballyvoreen - the townland of the little roads - on Saturday, August 19, when all roads will lead to Cappamore.