The lyrics of “That bonny spot called Keel” should be altered this year to “that Sunny spot called Keel”. On August 31, Keel will claim another adjective. If the Agricultural Show Committee members have their way, busy will be another word to describe the capital of Achill. The committee are currently organising the revival of the old black faced mountain sheep show of the eighties.
They have extended the show to include those whose interests stretch beyond the many agricultural themes. Therefore, along with the new categories of pony, poultry, donkey and other agricultural competitions, there will be craft, floral, and home baking displays. For the more energetic, there will be tug of war, sea and lake activities.
The slogan for this year is “why not make a weekend of it”. There are various types of accommodation to avail of, including excellent campsites, highest standard hotels, guesthouses, and rented accommodation. Special accommodation rates will apply for the weekend.
The show organisers proudly boast of the scenic location of Keel Sandybanks in view of the Minaun cliffs, the dramatic Slievemore Mountain, backdrop to the placid Keel Lake, and the breathtaking vista of Keel beach. They are also quick to point out that whatever the weather, “you will only need wellingtons for the welly throwing competition!”
The committee request that anyone who may have some of the cups from the old sheep shows return them so that they may be polished and renewed by August 31.
The completed list of the weekend activities will be available in the coming weeks. For further information see www.achillagriculturalshow.com
