T

The recently affiliated Killarney Ploughing Association will hold their second points competition on Sunday, November 4 on the grounds of Coffey’s Farm, Fossa, leased by Tony Wharton. The ploughing match begins at 11am. It promises to be a great day of ploughing, conversation and plenty of tea!

This is the second time a points match will be held in the Killarney and South Kerry area since the 1960s. The event was launched on Saturday by Deputy Danny Healy-Rae TD on the Wharton’s Farm, Dromin. There are now six ploughing associations in Kerry, strongest of course in North Kerry, Ardfert, Abbeydorney, Ballyheigue, Ballyduff and Causeway.

“We are delighted to host our second points competition,” said PRO Siobhán Wharton. “Ploughing is such a wonderful tradition and heritage. The interest is enormous. The association would also like to congratulate two of our members, Shane Godley and Michael Brosnan, who competed in the National Ploughing Championships. The Association wish to thank all of our sponsors for their continued support.”

There was a strong tradition of ploughing in Killarney and South Kerry area in the 1950s. Killarney’s incredible ploughmen excelled in competition, winning six All-Ireland titles. They also hosted the first World Championships in 1954 and represented Ireland in Ontario, Canada in the World Championships. Killarney also hosted the National Ploughing Championships in 1939 and 1961. The Association President Mr Danny O’Leary of Bishop’s Farm, Ballycasheen was himself a champion at ploughing, winning many titles in the 1960s.

For further information, please contact PRO Siobhán Wharton (086 4090349) or Chairman Thomas Wharton (086 0306344).

Pic: Valerie O'Sullivan.