Fingers crossed for Meath's Rose contestant in Portlaoise

Meath representative Sarah McCann from Ratoath will be heading to Portlaoise this June Bank Holiday weekend for the Rose of Tralee International Regional Finals. This year, the contest has been expanded to incorporate both the British Regional and North American Finals, resulting in the Rose of Tralee International Regional Finals. Due to the success of previous years, Portlaoise was chosen as the ideal location to host the prestigious event for the next three years, 2010-2012. Also present at the weekend of Rose selection will be lead sponsor of the Rose of Tralee International Festival, Newbridge Silverware. The Meath Rose is a qualified dietitian who runs her own clinic in Ashbourne, as well as lecturing. Sarah has spent time travelling the world alone and has volunteered with children in India along with raising funds for charities at home. She is a big fan of Meath GAA, is a keen swimmer and has enjoyed horse-riding since she was a child. Last week, she visited the Ollie & Mac boutique at Market Square, Navan, where she chose the dresses she would be wearing over the weekend. Apart from the all-important selection nights in Portlaoise, family entertainment, street fun and carnival, this year's festival is taking place in conjunction with the Gordon Bennett Irish Classic and, for the first time, the All-Ireland Sheep Shearing Championships. To add to the festive atmosphere there will also be live entertainment from All-Ireland Talent Show Finalists, Na Fianna. Joining the 29 Irish Roses from the length and breadth of the country will be 14 International Roses, 10 from the UK and four from North America. The Roses will visit tourism attractions in County Laois such as Emo Court and the Rock of Dunamaise. They will also take part in the Rose Gala Parade Saturday 5th June at 2.30pm, which starts from Civic Plaza at County Hall and will continue down Main Street before returning to the Civic Plaza for the finale. Organisers are expecting 25,000 visitors to descend on Portlaoise over the weekend.