Dream come true for Clare Rose

“A DREAM come through”, is how Newmarket-on-Fergus native Marie Donnellan describes the moment she was selected to represent Clare at the international finals of the Rose of Tralee selection in August.
Although Clare has had a Rose each year, Marie is the first Clare Rose to qualify for the televised show in Tralee since 2006 and was one of only six Irish Roses chosen from 29 in the recent regional finals in Portlaoise.

The international finals run from the August 11 to August 21 and include nationwide travel before arriving in Tralee for the festival on Friday, August 16. The schedule includes a range of media calls, daily photoshoots, dinner dances and parades.

“I am hoping to do Clare proud by representing the Banner County to the best of my ability as this festival brings thousands of people to Ireland and Tralee and is viewed all over the world,” said Marie.

However, the personal costs associated with this are considerable. The Clare Rose of Tralee centre is currently seeking sponsorship and support from local Clare businesses, boutiques and designers to help Marie.

“We would be delighted to help any up and coming designers or businesses who would like to get their name and designs into the public eye, creating a full County Clare promotional experience at the international festival,” explained a spokesperson.

Explaining her approach to this side of the competition would continue to be as practical, economical and cost effective as possible, Marie added, “Any additional funding raised will be donated to local charities, which I am involved with including the Clare Crusaders and Cahercalla Hospice among others.”

If you would like to help Marie on her journey to Tralee in anyway contact her on facebook or email her at mariedonnellan21@gmail.com.