THE search to find this year’s Clare Rose of Tralee has begun with the reigning Rose strongly recommending the experience.

Current Clare Rose Victoria O’Connell officially launched the search, encouraging others to get involved while fondly remembering her time in the competition and special moments during her reign.

She said, “Entering and becoming the Clare Rose has been one of the proudest moments of my life so far, being able to represent my county on a local, national and international base is a fantastic feeling that words just can’t describe.”

She continued, “This is not only on a personal growth and confidence level but the friendships I have made for life.

“Also the many many reunions and events I have attended over the years with my fellow Roses and Rose Escorts.

“From the week in Tralee to the opening of the German Christmas markets in Frankfurt and our planned walking of the St Patrick’s day parade in Fifth Avenue, New York.

“Although the pandemic caused ripples of effects to these, it has also opened the time for us to attend each other’s life events including weddings and numerous getaways let alone a hopping WhatsApp group.”

She continued, “I would recommend the festival to anyone. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity, You get to meet so many amazing people, do some amazing things, and become an inspiration to so many girls and women.

“I would say to anyone that has ever thought about becoming a Rose, don’t miss out on something great just because of fear, it’s your time, new year new you, just apply.”

According to organisers there is no better time to enter as the Clare Rose due to the gap caused by the pandemic, a revamped selection process removing the regional qualifications and increasing the age limit.

With no Clare Rose since 2019 and the next after this year to be 2025, interest is expected to be high.

Ciarán O’Connell and the team that co-ordinate the Clare event, said, “Vickie has been a true legend throughout her extended time as reigning Clare Rose of Tralee. She was a great ambassador for her family, County Clare, and west Clare in general. We want to thank everyone for getting behind her, and we love her to bits.

“This year is a big year for the county as there are big changes afoot which will mean we will only have a Clare Rose once every two years, but this year this is a great and even better opportunity for any young lady to really enjoy this once in a lifetime experience in the full.”

He continued, “We can confirm after the Covid break and the changes to the festival, the breaking news is there will be a 2023 Clare Rose of Tralee selection final this year on March 12 in the Inn at Dromoland with a closing date for entrants February 20 with new direct entry to the final night.

“There are no regional finals elements to the festival, so the chosen Clare Rose will go directly to the stage interview with the main man Dáithí Ó Sé in the Dome in Tralee. The age limit has gone up a year to 29 so once you’ve not reached your 30th birthday by September 1, 2023 you’re in.

“Due to the pandemic and the biannual selection this means we didn’t have a Clare Rose since Vickie the 2019 Rose and Clare won’t have one again till 2025. So we need your help to get that message out there the search is on for 2023 with only a six-week window to apply. This year there is no better time than now to give it a go and apply, so if there is anyone from or living in Clare you think would make a great Rose for county Clare in 2023 pass the nudge along.”

The chosen Clare Rose will travel via the ‘Rose tour’ to the international festival in Tralee in August and will take part in all the parades, Rose Ball, and numerous public engagements at the festival from which 32 Roses will appear in the live selection broadcasts.

More information can be found by searching or DM “Clare rose center” Or texting 086 3871635, Applications can be found via www.roseoftralee.ie or shorturl.at/FL025 The closing date will be February 20, 2023 and the Clare selection will be on at the Inn at Dromoland March 12.

The Rose of Tralee International Festival will celebrate 60 years from Friday, August 18 to Tuesday, August 22.