Kerry Rose Shares Insights on Strict Rules of Rose of Tralee Festival

The Rose of Tralee festival has returned, showcasing its commitment to the well-being of its participants through a set of strict behind-the-scenes rules. Laura Daly, the Kerry Rose from Ballymacelligott, has highlighted the measures in place to ensure that the competitors remain safe, healthy, and vibrant throughout the event. The festival, hosted by Kathryn Thomas and Dáithí Ó Sé, kicked off this week, with the 32 Roses set to perform on stage during the televised segments on Monday and Tuesday.

Daly elaborated on the extensive planning that goes into the festival, emphasizing how the rules are designed to protect the participants. “There’s a mixture of things… they’re put in place in a sense that keeps us safe, keeps us well, keeps us going, because it is a very long process,” she told the Irish Mirror. The rigorous schedule includes numerous photo opportunities, interviews, and social engagements, all while the Roses build relationships with each other and their chaperone teams.

The festival’s activities began with a gathering in Meath, where the Roses stayed at the Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim and visited Emerald Park. The group arrived in Tralee on Friday, ready to embark on the festival’s exciting events. Daly noted the importance of adhering to curfews, stating, “We had a gala up in Co Meath… and there was a few of us looking at our chaperone saying, ‘When is it bedtime?'”

With such a busy schedule, the need for structure is paramount. Daly explained that daily briefings focus on time management, emphasizing that punctuality is critical to maintaining the festival’s flow. “If you’re not on time, it’s all different wheels that are put in motion if one thing comes out,” she said. This perspective has allowed her to appreciate the festival’s inner workings in a new light.

The festival organizers are committed to ensuring that all participants remain in good spirits and health, facilitating an environment where the Roses can thrive. “Nobody’s getting sick, everybody’s happy and in a good, safe headspace, and everybody’s feeling supported,” Daly remarked. The rules that might seem strict from the outside are, in fact, essential for the well-being of the competitors.

Daly emphasized that guidelines around nutrition and lifestyle choices are equally important. “It’s the same way as we’re told to eat healthy, the same way as we’re told to exercise. When it comes to the rules, whether it’s at bedtime, or, you know, don’t drink too much,” she said, reinforcing the notion that these measures are in place for the Roses’ benefit.

This year, Cork is represented by Nancy Lehane, a 22-year-old from Meelin who has recently completed a degree in Primary Education. She expressed her excitement, stating it is a “dream come true” to represent her county in this prestigious competition.

As the festival unfolds, the focus remains on the Roses’ experiences and the support systems in place to enhance their time at the event. The Rose of Tralee continues to be a celebration of culture, community, and camaraderie, showcasing the resilience and talents of young women from across the globe.