THE Corofin North Clare Agricultural Show was bigger and better than ever before, as it celebrated 75 years last weekend.
92-year-old Nora O’Brien said the Show has been an important part of her life for a very long time. Over the years, she was a stalwart volunteer, setting up tables and serving food to young and old alike who enjoyed this time-honoured Corofin event. “It’s important for the rural people to come together at something like this,” she said. “Rural Ireland is changing now. It’s a different world than I grew up in. But the show still brings the rural people out. It’s homely”, said Nora.
That homely atmosphere was evident at the Show last Saturday. The 75th anniversary show drew thousands of people to the Corofin Community Hall and Field to celebrate agriculture and tradition from the animal competitions to the judging of the best in horticulture, gardening and home crafts and creations. Families flocked to the bouncy castles and face painting, and people danced to classic hits performed by Bernie and friends along with traditional music from local musicians & step dancers.
The heart of the Show remains true to its agricultural roots. Pat O’Connor of Boston said until a few years ago, he has always had horses in the competitions. It began in 1969, when his horse Kentucky Colleen came in second. “We won a lot with her down through the years. I got a first for her in the draft class, and probably second in the champion mare.”
O’Connor said the show has long been an important part of his life. “I’ve always come to support the show. It’s great to see local people keeping this tradition going” he said.
This sentiment was echoed by Corofin man Tom Burke, a former secretary of the Show. “It has become part of the culture of Corofin. Miltown Malbay has Willie Clancy and Corofin at least has the show for one big day of the year,” he said.
Back in the Vintage Tea Room, a competitor in the Hall exhibitions shared her thought. Kathleen Hassett of Dysert has entered the baking competition for years – this year, she said with evident pride, coming away with two first place ribbons in gluten-free tart and gluten-free tea brack and a second place. “It’s a great day for Corofin. I wouldn’t miss it for anything. It’s meeting my family and friends and having a cup of tea with them”, said Kathleen.
All photos by Tom Micks
