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The search begins for the Rose of Tralee ’08
By Elaine Sheridan
 The search
is once again about to begin to find this year’s Rose Of Tralee.
And two new centres in Coventry and Nottingham have come on board to help
pick Britain’s entries — who will join Irish girls from all
over the world in Kerry to vie for the prestigious title.
Elsewhere clubs, societies and associations across the nation are also
gearing up to hold heats that will decide who will go on to represent
their region at the grand final in August.
And organisers are hopeful that the usual high caliber of first, second
and third-generation Irish girls living in Britain will come forward.
Rose Of Tralee general manager Oliver Hurley said: “The Rose Of
Tralee International Festival has been developing centres in Ireland over
the last two years and is now focusing attention on expanding international
centres.
“It has always been our intention to expand the organisation worldwide,
and this year we are looking to add more centres in Britain.
“To date we have 11 British centres, including two new centres in
Coventry and Nottingham.
“We are very much involved in supporting the organisation Rose Of
Tralee British Final which this year is being held at the Holiday Inn
in Liverpool on Saturday, Jul 5.”
Reigning Rose, Lisa Murtagh from New York knows exactly how it feels to
wear the coveted crown.
The 28-year-old has just moved to Ireland from the Big Apple and said
that she is having the time of her life.
Since being crowned at the final eight months ago the former attorney
says her feet haven’t touched the ground.
She said: “I can promise the 2008 Rose Of Tralee that she will have
a wonderful time.
“The Rose Of Tralee is a super contest that opens a lot of doors
for young girls.
“It could be the perfect platform for any girl interested in working
in the media or modelling industries.
“But stay true to yourselves and remain grounded.”
Flame-haired Lisa was born and raised to Irish parents in Queens, New
York — dad Colman is from Longford town and mum Breda from Athea
in Limerick.
And life just keeps getting better and better for the beauty as she announced
that she is to marry her long-time boyfriend Brian Fitzgerald, who she
first met in a nightclub in Kilcornan, Co. Limerick as a teenager.
For further details about this year’s Rose of Tralee and entry
forms see www.roseoftralee.ie |
