Pride of place was the prevalent theme in Fr O'Growney Park on Friday night as recently crowned Rose of Tralee, Rosemount native, Rachel Duffy, made an emotional return to an immensely proud community.
Amid a vast swell of well wishers, Rachel was rapturously received, her achievement certain to live long in the hearts and minds of this renowned South Westmeath community.
As she addressed those present, Rachel reflected upon her Rose of Tralee journey, recalling how her grandparents initially encouraged her to enter the competition.
"I have to thank my grandparents who initially encouraged me to enter the Rose of Tralee and I did so without informing them. Thankfully, they are here tonight as are so many family members and friends. However, there is one person missing, but I honestly believe, my mother has been with me on this amazing journey to date," Rachel said.
Paying homage to her Cill Óige teammates, Rachel noted the camaraderie amongst the players, stating that it was the formation of the ladies football team which enabled her to get through Covid-19.
"I have much to be grateful for with the formation of the Cill Óige ladies football team. I could not ask to play with such a wonderful team and I must thank both Rosemount and Castledaly GAA for giving the women in both communities the opportunity to play gaelic football.
"The community of Rosemount really needed to highlight their women in a sporting capacity and we all have immense pride in representing our parish. It is just great to see the women receiving similar support to that received by the men," Rachel enthused.
Rachel lauded the support she received from her fellow Roses during her Tralee experience, noting the positive impact of the escorts "who kept us all on time for the numerous events we had to attend during the international festival".
Once again reflecting upon her roots, Rachel noted that without the ongoing support of the Rosemount community she would not have made it to the Rose of Tralee festival.
"No matter how many times I mention in conversation that I am from Rosemount, I always hear in return that it is an amazing community and that it certainly is. Our community spirit is unbelievable and enable us all to get through Covid-19. I will always be a 'Rosie' first and the Rose of Tralee second. I just hope that I will continue to make you all proud. Even though I am the Rose of Tralee I will never forget where I am from as without this community I wouldn't be standing here thanking you for your support this evening," Rachel concluded.
