(with pix)
Derrylin native Tara Maguire, who is now based in the US, has described her Rose of Tralee experience as the 'most amazing two weeks of my entire life'.
Representing Washington D.C., Tara took to the stage in the Festival Dome on Wednesday night last where she was interviewed live on RTÉ1 by the host, Ray D'Arcy.
She returned home to Derrylin at the weekend where a welcome home party was held in her honour at Blake's pub.
Back in Washington yesterday (Tuesday), Tara had time to reflect on her trip to Tralee.
"There are so many highlights - everyday I remember something else. However, the biggest highlight was the support that I received from both friends and family who travelled down to Tralee. "Although I did not get to spend much time with them, it was great to share this amazing experience. I was also overwhelmed by the welcome that we received when on tour and in Tralee. We were treated like absolute royalty and it emphasised that the Rose of Tralee Festival is held in very high regard all over the country."
And the highlights were endless.
"The parade was a totally surreal experience. Thousands and thousands of people lined the streets despite the wind and the rain, and greeted us. It was an amazing welcome and something that we will all hold with us for the rest of our lives.
"We got to attend the Fashion Show of the Year. Not only did we get to see some amazing designs, but we also got to strut our stuff on the catwalk! All 50 Roses were on cloud nine.
The American Roses attended a lunch hosted by Dan Rooney, the American Ambassador, Tara
continued.
"This was a sincere privilege. We also went on a tour, conducted by Senator Mark Daly, of the Dáil.
We also got a taste of some of Ireland's best-known products when on tour at Guinness and Tullamore Dew."
Tara says she will always have fond memories of her fellow Roses.
"The other 49 Roses are absolute gems. I have been asked on numerous occasions, 'who did you not like?' I can say with great sincerity that they were some of the nicest girls that I have ever met and I am honoured to be part of such a wonderful group of ladies."
Tara was equally overwhelmed by the hospitality when she arrived home to Derrylin at the weekend.
"There was a welcome home party held in Blake's on Saturday night. I really appreciate all of my friends and family who attended - it was a great night. And, I would like to thank Pat McCauley for providing the food. I'd also like to thank my fabulous family, friends and neighbours who made the trip to Tralee and attended the function in Blakes. Thanks also to everyone for their cards, e-mails, texts, phone calls and gifts. I am forever grateful."
