The packed programme will include the full range of livestock and equestrian classes along with the other popular sections - Home Industries and Schools Exhibition, Trade and Craft Stalls, Dog Show, Pony Rides; Bonnie Baby Competition, Best-Dressed Lady, Young Farmers Clubs Competitions, Tug-of-War, Vintage Vehicles and Riding for the Disabled. In addition, a number of exciting entertainment activities have been organised.
Chairman, William Anderson said that entries are flooding in and this year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever before.
In the livestock and equestrian sections a number of important Qualifiers have been allocated by the Northern Ireland Shows Association (NISA) and the Irish Shows Association (ISA) and the National Pony Society (NPS). The long-standing association with Tydavnet Show in Co Monaghan is to continue with the running of a Brood Mare Championship and a special trophy for the First Ridden Pony Champion and members from that Show will be in attendance to help out on the day.
In the livestock rings all breeds of cattle sheep, goats and pigs will be represented and a number of special competitions will be held including The Semex Dairy Cow of the Year, The Simmental Heifer Derby, The Dectomax Charolais Championship, Rare Breeds Championships for Cattle and Sheep and the United Feeds Best Breed on Parade.
In the Equestrian Section a full programme of classes and qualifiers will run including affiliated Show Jumping for ponies and horses and two new classes for veteran horses and ponies as well as an overall Horse Champion of the Show Competition.
In addition, two new exciting events will be held in the horse field:
- The NI Hound Show organised by the Hunting Association of NI. This Show traditionally attracts the cream of working hounds from all over Ireland. Hounds are shown by their huntsmen in full hunt uniform and will make a colourful spectacle at the County Show. The classes will run from 10.30am to 4.00pm.
- Mounted Pony Games. Teams of young riders on very fast ponies will compete in a variety of obstacle and relay type races. The speed of the ponies and the skill of the riders are breathtaking and combine to produce a colourful, all action arena display.
There will be something of interest for everyone at Armagh Show on Saturday so make a date in your diary and don't miss the fun and entertainment in the beautiful surroundings of Gosford Forest Park.
Further details and Prize Schedules can be obtained from: Armagh County Agricultural Show Office, 10 Dobbin Street, Armagh BT61 7QQ. Tel: 028 37 522270 / 524238 Fax: 028 37 51561, e-mail: info@armaghshow.org www.armaghshow.org