With less than two weeks to go to the staging of Europe’s largest outdoor events, preparations in Ballintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow are seriously taking shape as this green field transforms into the bustling city that will be #Ploughing19. Today, the national media were treated to an exciting preview of what to expect at this year’s National Ploughing Championships, as the event was officially launched on the site.
At this morning’s launch, the media and special guests were entertained by local performers from Carlow while prize-winning animals, quality machines, horses and hounds were all on display.
Launching the event, NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “The Championships not only provides a national stage for showcasing all things agricultural, but also brings together people from all sectors of Irish society both rural and urban, to enjoy three days immersed in country living.
There is also serious international appeal with exhibitors, global buyers and visitors coming from far flung countries such as Turkey, the USA, UK, Uganda, Germany, India, Poland, Ghana, Belgium, New Zealand, France, Saudi Arabia, Lativa and the Netherlands making ‘Ploughing’ the perfect opportunity to show the very best of Ireland’s food, farming & culture.”
There will be millions of euro worth of agricultural and plant machinery on display featuring an extensive range of cutting edge agricultural technology and equipment, with the opportunity to see these in action in the machinery demonstration area. The leading manufacturers and agents will be present with specialist sales advisors and technical experts available for free consultations.
Visitors can take the opportunity to admire the marvellous quality livestock on display and learn about livestock management, genetics, nutrition and healthcare. This year will see the introduction of a new ‘Agritech’ pavilion which will include fascinating interactive demonstrations.
Green is indeed very much the theme of the day as sustainability is key at this year’s Championships with zero percent of the event’s waste going to landfill.
The NPA in partnership with Carlow County Council, the Southern Regional Waste Management Office and AES have agreed a segregated waste collection for the ‘Ploughing’. Visitors will be presented with a three-bin system including; food waste (which will be converted into electricity by an anaerobic digester), mixed dry recyclables and general waste.
All of the firm favourite attractions are set to return this year such as Fashion Shows, Meggers, Sheep Shearing, Hunt Chase, Fun Fair, Food Trail, Craft Demonstrations, Pony Games, Live Music and Dancing, Vintage Ploughing, Threshing, Fun Fair, Loy Digging, Motor Show with celebrities and well known faces everywhere Ploughing 2019 is not to be missed.
