The Oughterard Show

The Oughterard Show website was launched by Editor of the Connacht Tribune, David O’Connell at a special function in the Corrib Hotel on Saturday last, 29th June. Lady Godiva also had also taken part in the proceedings earlier in the day. The launch of the new website coincided with the publication of this year’s Show Schedule, copies of which are in circulation and also available on line.

With the click of a mouse button, exhibitors now have immediate access to a wide range of information about the show including details of all sections and 319 classes as well as a direct link to Oughterard Tourist office through which overnight accommodation can be easily arranged.

This year’s show, to be held on Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st of August, it is the 46th year. The first show, held on Thursday 20th September 1962, was organised by a committee of business people and local residents on the instigation of the Oughterard Development Company Ltd. On that occasion, there were just 116 classes, the catalogue, printed by the Connacht Tribune, cost one shilling and the event was followed by a Show Dance in the Parochial Hall (The Kirke) with dancing to the Music Makers Orchestra from 8 to 1!

Things have changed from those early days and our show has now become a two day event with more than twelve pony/rider combinations from overseas competing in the Saturday International Connemara Pony Performance Championships for which there is a prize fund of €6000 with generous sponsorship for six classes coming from the Irish Horse Board through the Connemara Performance Pony Association. Several of the overseas visitors will also take part in the prestigious Power’s Quarry International Competition on Sunday.

Speaking at the launch, the Show Chairman PJ Burke welcomed and thanked the many generous sponsors without whom the show could not exist. He also thanked all exhibitors, supporters and helpers as well as Oughterard Show Society members who voluntarily give so much of their time to making the necessary preparations for the two day event. He warmly welcomed, David O’ Connell who had kindly agreed to come to launch the 45th show and congratulated him on his appointment to the position of Editor of the Connacht Tribune. David O’ Connell said that was delighted to be back in Oughterard, particularly since his late father had been greatly involved with the show for a number of years when the family lived in the town. He acknowledged the effort which is put into organising such a big event and wished the Chairman and organising committee every success in preparing for the 46th show to be held on the 30th and 31th August.

The Oughterard Show is the ideal place for a family day out. This year, the special attractions include Vintage Displays, French Market, Working Sheep Dog demonstrations, Art Exhibition, Bonny Baby Competition, Summer Style Teen Competition, Most Glamorous Granny Competition and for the second year, the very popular Best Dressed Lady Competition with fantastic prizes for the first and second placed entrants. We hope the sun shines and look forward to welcoming you to Oughterard on the last weekend of August.