Maria Walsh, the Rose of Tralee, has challenged young men from her home county of Mayo to see if they have what it takes to be a Rose escort at this year’s Rose of Tralee International Festival from August 14 to 18.
The March 16 deadline to apply for escort duty at the festival this year is fast approaching.
The primary role of a Rose escort is to look after the Rose and ensure her time at the festival is a memorable and enjoyable experience.
The successful candidates will take part in a team-building boot camp in June at a stunning location in Kerry and participate in festival events in August, including the Gala Rose Ball, parades, and five full days of entertainment.
“I can guarantee that all of the lads who decide to sign up for this year’s festival will have the time of their lives,” said Ms Walsh.
“While there are responsibilities with the role, they will all manage to have great craic in Tralee.”
Rose escorts must be aged between 21 and 30, never have been married, and be born in Ireland or of Irish origin by virtue of one of their ancestors having been born in Ireland.
Rose escorts must be available for selection events and, if selected, be available for the international festival events from August 14 to 18 2015 in Tralee.
One of the 32 Rose escorts will be announced as the Newbridge Silverware Escort of the Year live on RTÉ One on Monday August 17.
The 2014 Escort of the Year, Conor Walsh, described becoming a Rose escort as “one of the best decisions of my life”.
“Words cannot describe the amount of fun, laughter, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences I have gone through,” he said. “It has given me the opportunity to meet so many new and interesting people from all over the world, and it is something for which I will always be grateful.”
For more information or applications, visit www.roseoftralee.ie before Monday March 16 or email [email protected].
