Profiles: Meet the Meath Rose of Tralee hopefuls hoping to represent the Royal county
The search to find the next Meath Rose will conclude on Sunday when Lane Galvin will hand over her sash to the next girl to represent County Meath in Tralee this August.
The event will kick off at 7 pm in Knightsbrook Hotel with tickets still available at €25 per person on the night.
Now, meet the contestants....
Eve McRedmond
Sponsored by: Highfield Veterinary
My name is Eve McRedmond I am 21 years old, and from Ballyboggan County Meath. I am in my 3rd year of college in UCD where I am completing my degree in animal science. I hope to pursue a successful career in veterinary medicine. I have been working for my sponsor Highfield Veterinary group the last 3 years.
I hold a world title in Irish dancing, I obtained this title in 2023. In 2024 I earned my position on the UCD Irish dance team and with that came numerous opportunities to meet new people and fantastic experiences, it also allows me to teach and preserve one of Ireland's cultural heritages. I enjoy long distance running. I hope to complete the Dublin marathon this year. Cooking, baking, Pilates, cleaning and helping on the family farm are also interests of mine.
I enjoy meeting new people, gaining new experiences and travelling! I feel the role of Meath Rose would be a position I would thrive in.
Shauna Prendiville
Sponsored by: Emerald Park
My name is Shauna Prendiville, I am 19 years old, and I am from a small village called Curragha. I have a strong passion for country music which I developed from my late grandad who was a Kerry man. He introduced me to the world of Sean- nós singing, and I grew up playing the fiddle and the piano. My love for agriculture began at a young age as growing up on a busy dairy farm my childhood evolved around calving season, kidding season and silage season. I was taught from an early age how to calf a cow and drive a tractor, taking my love for agriculture into adulthood with me. I wish to pursue a career in children’s Mental Health nursing in September, as I absolutely love working with children, as well as interacting and meeting new people.
Grace McCormack
Sponsored by: Art 4 You
My name is Grace McCormack, and I am 27 years old. I am from Kiltale, Co. Meath. I grew up with a big family, I have two brothers and five sisters.
I went to school in Dunshaughlin Community College. Soon after I applied to Limerick School of Art and Design, I received my BA honours degree in Ceramics and Pottery.
After that I graduated from college, and I went to England to teach Art and cover subjects in a secondary school. Afterwards I realised that teaching wasn’t really meant for me. I wanted to travel more. In April 2024, I moved to Corfu, and I worked at a seasonal job, a kids club and crèche assistant for eight months. While I was away, I enjoyed the experience.
I love doing tarot readings for people. I like to participate in Psychic and Holistic fairs all over Ireland and England.
Ruth Brady
Sponsored by: Coole Swan
Is mise Ruth Brady, I’m 23, and I’m proud to call Navan home.
I spent my formative years in Scoil Ultain Naofa in Baile Ghib and Loreto St. Michaels, Navan, where I had wonderful teachers who taught me a real love of learning.
After school, I studied Law and Political Science at Trinity College and now work as a paralegal in Donnybrook, with one last set of FE1 exams ahead—wish me luck!
I’m passionate about health and wellness, and I teach Pilates. But don’t worry - I won’t put anyone through their Pilates paces on Feb 1st!
The roses have always been role models for me growing up and watching the show on TV. I feel so lucky to have met so many amazing women already.
I can’t wait for a night with my family and community and all my fellow roses on Feb 1st!
Marnie Gilroy
Sponsored by: Headstart Trim
My name is Marnie, I am 19 years young, and I live near Rathmolyon in County Meath.
I’m currently in my second year of college, studying Geography and Geoscience, at Trinity.
Music is my passion. I play the piano, accordion and I love to sing. I am studying for my RIAM Piano Senior Certificate. I am very proud to say that I have been passing on my love for music to my own piano students over the last couple of years.
I grew up with a love and interest for ponies. Being part of the Meath Hunt Pony Club encouraged it, making great friends along the way.
I look forward to travelling around Ireland, experiencing what the world had to offer, agus ag tabhairt mo ghrá don cheol agus mo ghrá don ghaeilge liom.
I have enjoyed the journey thus far and I am looking forward to the selection night.
Niamh Linnane
Sponsored by: Mary Queen of Ireland NS
My name is Niamh Linnane, 22, from Ashbourne, Co. Meath. I am a newly qualified primary school teacher with a first-class honours degree from DCU. Each day, I have the privilege of sparking curiosity and igniting creativity in the hearts of young learners at my rural DEIS school, where I help them dream big and embrace their potential.
Creativity fuels my spirit—whether it’s strumming my guitar, teaching the beauty of the Irish language, or guiding my students in art. The Irish language, in particular, has brought me across borders, connecting me with people and places that celebrate our shared heritage.
Gaelic football with Donaghmore/Ashbourne has instilled in me a deep sense of community, resilience, and pride. Every experience—whether in the classroom or on the pitch—has encouraged me to grow and live fully.
I applied for the Rose of Tralee to inspire others to boldly chase their dreams and live with purpose. Is é seo an saol atá á shaothrú agam—saoirse, sonas agus spreagadh.
Ciara Sweeney
Sponsored by: E Crawley Furniture
Hi my name is Ciara Sweeney, I’m from Kildalkey, Co. Meath. I’m 26 years old; I studied Social Care in DKIT and I’m currently a SNA
In my spare time I love doing yoga which helps me relax, I also help out with my local community and spend time with my friends and family. I also have an interest in fashion and love different fashion trends.
My family are very important to me, they always support me with everything I do and always give out the best advice,
Any chance I get I will try and spend as much time with them as I can, for example my mother and I love going shopping and looking for the best deals, and my dad and I have a passion for poultry and agriculture. I am a qualified poultry judge in Ireland and poultry photographer, I’ve travelled all over Ireland and the UK for poultry.
Ella Bannon
Sponsored by: Linen Bundle
Hi, my name is Ella. I’m 19 years old from Trim Co, Meath. I am currently a nursing student studying at DCU with the hopes of specialising in oncology or haematology.
Nursing has always been a dream of mine from a very young age, following in the footsteps of my mum as caring for others has always been close to our hearts.
I started Irish dancing when I was 4 years of age and danced at a championship level until 2021 when I retired after placing 7th in the world championships and decided to focus on my studies. I also had the opportunity to travel the world to teach children in various countries Irish culture through dance and music.
I enjoy travelling, visiting family, being busy and looking after the four crazy boys I babysit every week!!
The Rose of Tralee Festival has been a huge part of my family from a young age. I have thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful experience so far and I hope to make my family proud!
Julia Kirwin
Sponsored by: Dunboyne Sports & Leisure, F Doolan Butchers & Nyles & Rafe
My name is Julia Kirwin. I am a student teacher in a Secondary school in Co. Meath. I am currently in my final year of my Professional Masters of Education which I am studying in Maynooth University. The subjects that I teach are Spanish and Geography. In 2021-2022, I was able to work as an English Language Assistant in Bilbao. I worked there for nine months, teaching primary school aged children English. Learning Spanish and learning about Basque Culture!
I also play basketball for my local club in Maynooth, Maynooth Tigers. I am a part of the Senior Division One Ladies team. I help out with basketball camps throughout the summer! I have played basketball since I was 10 years old. It has given me many skills such as teamwork, discipline and communication. It also is a great outlet especially now that I am doing a masters!
Roisin Crehan
Sponsored by: First Batch Bakery
My name’s Róisín Crehan, I’m 26 and from the lovely community of Ratoath.
I’m a Studio Manager for Styled By. My background is in luxury retail however since joining in 2024, I’ve never felt more at home working with a small, local business.
Following a Certificate in Fashion Business, I studied Human Rights in NUI Galway. This has given me opportunities to work with homeless charities in Ireland and NGOs in Barcelona.
In 2020, I established my own business, Our Rose Room. It is a collection of handmade silk hair accessories which was inspired by my journey of hair loss.
I’m passionate about the importance of female friendships so in my free time, I like to go out with my girls whether that’s travelling or playing golf.
My favourite quote is my Dads who told us - “Do something you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.
Ciara Wood
Sponsored by: RWC Consultants Ltd.
Hello! My name is Ciara Wood and I am a 23-year-old from Dunboyne, Co. Meath. I graduated from UCD in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in General Nursing. Afterward, I worked in critical care at the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital before returning to UCD in September 2024 to pursue a Higher Diploma in Children’s Nursing. I find it incredibly fulfilling to care for children and their families during such a challenging time in the hospital. Outside of work, I enjoy reading new books, spending time with my friends, and exploring new walking trails with my dogs. I’m also passionate about fashion, particularly hunting for unique pieces in charity and vintage shops, and I love adding my own twist to restyle outfits. It would be an absolute honour to represent our royal county in the prestigious Rose of Tralee.
Christine Monahan
Sponsored by: Patrick J Monahan & Assoc Accountants
My name is Christine Monahan after Christine Cagney in my Dad's favourite TV show Cagney and Lacey. I am a twin, together my sister Grace and I are known to my parents as Gracetine like Jedward. We believe we have twin telepathy. I became known as smiley while in Crumlin Children's Hospital when I underwent a Coarctation of the Aorta as an infant and more recently I'm known as baby face because I don't look my age. I am 28 going 29 in April and I am a primary school teacher in St. Oliver Plunkett NS in Navan where I currently teach 1st Class. I enjoy swimming and playing the tin whistle. I am a long-standing member of the Ratkenny Revels. I run an Instagram page called Múinteoir on the Move and I do private Maths grinds. I have an ambition to become a famous children’s book author and for my dog Millie to win Best in Show at Crufts. I look forward to visiting Rome this year for World Youth Day. I am proudly sponsored by my Dad’s business Patrick J. Monahan & Assoc. Accountants.
Deirbhile Curran
Sponsored by: Bex Beauty
My name is Deirbhile Curran, and I’m a Primary School Teacher from Carlanstown. I have always wanted to be a teacher, and I’m incredibly grateful to be working in a profession that I love!
Outside of the classroom, staying active is an important part of my life. I play gaelic football for my local club, St. Michaels, and have a deep interest in GAA. Growing up immersed in Gaelic football, and inspired by my Father, motivates me to become the best player I can be.
I also enjoy going to the gym and competing in Hyrox events. I have completed four competitions, and I am looking forward to my fifth in Saudi Arabia this April. These challenges have given me the opportunity to travel and achieve new goals!
Traditional music has always been close to my heart. I’ve been playing the fiddle for the past 16 years, alongside the tin whistle.
Solo travel is another passion of mine, with Dubai being my most recent adventure!
I’m excited to meet everyone and make lasting memories during the Meath Rose selection, celebrating the connections that bring us all together!
Shona Dixon
Sponsored by: Belle Mariee Bridal
My name is Shona and I'm 20 years old. I've been passionate about Gaelic football my whole life, playing with my local club Boardsmill and being part of a community.
Recently, I started working in healthcare, supporting young people with intellectual disabilities. It's incredibly rewarding as I get to share my independence and help the service users lead fulfilling lives. I leave work each day feeling grateful for what I have and motivated to make a positive impact on others.
I’m very family-oriented—though we have our moments! I also love animals and enjoy any sport at all that I can get involved in.
Emily O'Dwyer
Sponsored by: Nannys of Duleek
My name is Emily O’Dwyer, I’m 20 years old and I’m from Duleek. I'm currently a Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science student in Dundalk and will be taking up my place in the Technological University Dublin next September studying Biotechnology.
I work as a waitress and bartender in Nanny’s of Duleek who have kindly offered to sponsor me. I adore playing Ladies Gaelic football with my local club Duleek-Bellewstown and despite only starting football at 15, I’ve been a starting player on the adult ladies’ team for the last 3 years consecutively. I love to travel and see new parts of the world and experience other cultures and ways of life.
In my spare time I enjoy going to the gym and working on my fitness and wellbeing. I enjoy going to concerts with my friends and walking with my dogs Bobby and Frank.