Crowd of 85,000 attends day two of National Ploughing Championships

Some 85,000 visitors passed through the gates of this year’s National Ploughing Championships in Screggan today (Wednesday), bringing the total attendance to 163,500 over the first two days.

Speaking this evening, National Ploughing Association Managing Director Anna May McHugh said: "We had a fantastic turnout today, and we’re delighted the weather stayed on our side.

"Everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves, with plenty to see and do throughout the day."

One of the standout features on day two was the Certified Irish Angus Schools Competition, which drew strong attention. The schools’ competition gave secondary students the opportunity to rear Angus calves while gaining hands-on experience.

Another highlight of the day was the Irish Simmental National Calf Finals, a prestigious showcase of Ireland’s finest young pedigree Simmental cattle and the All-Ireland Lamb Shearing Championships also drew great attention, adding to the excitement of the event.”

In the afternoon, large crowds gathered in the Fashion Show Marquee for the ever-popular Most Appropriately Dressed Lady & Gentleman Competitions.

Vanessa Shortall, from Tullamore, was awarded Most Appropriately Dressed Lady, judged by former Miss Ireland Holly Carpenter and sponsored by Voco, The Club. Her prize included an overnight spa escape for two.

Peter Larkin from Kinvara, Galway, was crowned Most Appropriately Dressed Gentleman, judged by influencer Chloe Markham and sponsored by Shaws, receiving a €500 Shaws voucher.

The 94th National Ploughing Championships will conclude tomorrow, with visitors looking forward to an exciting final day of action in both the ploughing fields and the National Brown Bread Baking Competition Final, where Ireland’s National Brown Bread Baker of the Year 2025 will be crowned.

Alongside plenty of fun activities, from horseshoe throwing to entertainment for all ages.