Limerick Ladies Shine at 2025 Rose of Tralee Festival

The 2025 Rose of Tralee festival saw a captivating performance by the Limerick representatives, even as Laois Rose claimed the crown. The event took place at the Kerry Sports Academy, showcasing 32 contestants over two nights broadcast to a global audience.

Limerick’s own Leah McMahon, a financial planner, made a memorable appearance in a custom dress that paid homage to her roots. Designed by her childhood friend, Mary O’Sullivan, the outfit featured a classic Limerick Toile de Jouy print. Leah expressed that the dress symbolized their enduring friendship, particularly poignant as both women became mothers at a young age. Leah’s daughter, Ella McMahon, celebrated her eighth birthday that evening, capturing the audience’s hearts when host Dáithí O’Sé presented her with a birthday cake.

Leah, a graduate of the University of Limerick with a Bachelor of Business Studies, is committed to promoting financial literacy, especially among women and youth. Currently working with Castle Capital Financial Planning, she leads workshops under the name Bláthú, which translates to ‘blossoming’ in Irish. In an interview during the festival, Leah addressed some criticisms of the Rose of Tralee, underscoring the festival’s role in celebrating women’s achievements. “Women are not asking to be more than men, but just to be on the same playing field,” she stated.

Another Limerick native, Ceiline O’Mara, who represents the UAE, brought her talents to the stage. Now a primary school teacher and musician based in the United Arab Emirates, Ceiline began her career at Scoil an Spioraid Naoimh in Roxboro. She has taken a career break to teach in Sharjah and showcased her musical abilities with a harp performance of “Ms Hamilton.” A graduate of Mary Immaculate College, Ceiline has earned accolades, including being an All-Ireland Fleadh Champion, and has performed at prominent events like the Dubai World Cup.

The festival not only highlighted the individual accomplishments of the contestants but also celebrated the cultural ties that connect them. The performances and stories shared at the event resonated with audiences, emphasizing the spirit of community and friendship that the Rose of Tralee festival embodies.

As the event concluded, the Limerick representatives left a lasting impression, proving that their contributions and talents extend far beyond the stage. The Rose of Tralee festival continues to be a platform for celebrating the achievements and stories of women worldwide.