ISDS 2007 Irish National Trials
Tourlestrane, Co. Sligo

Tourlestrane to host 2007 National Sheepdog Trials

TOURLESTRANE, a thriving rural village situated in South Sligo off the N17 between Aclare and Tubbercurry, is to host the Irish National Sheepdog Trials from Thursday, July 26th to Saturday, July 28th.

Sheepdog trialing, traditionally a recreational activity among farmers, is becoming increasingly popular with enthusiasts from various walks of life taking up the sport in recent times.

A total of 150 of Ireland’s best sheepdogs have qualified to take part in the event and the Irish National will see representatives from every county in Ireland together with handlers from the Isle of Man compete over three days for the top 15 coveted places.

In addition, there will be a one brace competition held each day; this is a competition where two dogs work together at a time. The top two sets of dogs will represent Ireland.

The winners of both the single and brace competitions will represent Ireland at the international Sheepdog trials, to be held in Kilkenny this September.

This event brings with it a major spin off for the local economy and it is estimated that somewhere in the region of eight to ten thousand people will visit the South Sligo area over the three-day event.

The site for the trials is on the farm of Eamon and Bernadette Durkin and the entrance to the trial course can be found opposite Tourlestrane GAA football field.

For anyone visiting the area for the first time you should have little difficulty finding Tourlestrane as signposting for the location starts on the N4, N5 and the N17 routes, so be sure to watch out for those signs! 

Map Tourlestrane.        Courtesy Mapquest.com

Tourlestrane, nestled in the shadow of the Ox Mountains, has beautiful scenery in abundance. A trip to Lough Talt, Lough Easkey, Aclare village, Swinford, Co. Mayo, the John Hume peace gardens, along the banks of the River Moy, are a must while visiting the area. In the evenings you can relax and enjoy listening to a live traditional Irish music session in “The Border Collie” bar.

Added attractions include, the launch of Ox Mountain Lamb by Minister Mary Coughlan on Friday afternoon, “The Dog Mans Ball”, a night of culture and dancing on Friday night 27th at Banada Community Hall featuring top traditional band, The Border Collies, and country star, John Hogan. In the field, children can enjoy free amusements, bouncing castles etc.

Such is the growing popularity of sheepdog trials that sky television is covering the event for the three days.

Their flagship channel ‘Horse and Country Television’ available on channel 280 and presented by Robin Page will give the trials and the South Sligo area worldwide exposure.

Admission is €5 for adults and students. Free admission for children.