'Wiley' Limerick punters in clover after Róisín's Rose of Tralee win
THE NEWLY-CROWNED Rose of Tralee Róisín Wiley has been a thorn in the side of bookmakers.
The New York Rose has proud Limerick connections as mum Majella (née O’Reilly) is from Templeglantine and dad Eddie is a Kilmallock man.
Cllr Mike Donegan, who knows Eddie well, said there was a great buzz all week in the town in the run-up, and after Róisín's name was called out by hosts Kathryn Thomas and Dáithí Ó Sé.
The local councillor said everybody was delighted due to the popularity of the Wiley family. Many locals had also placed their faith - and placed a wager - on one of their own.
"I know from talking to a few friends and family members that they all had small wagers so the bookies are scratching their heads this morning," smiled Cllr Donegan, who is looking forward to welcoming the International Rose of Tralee 2023 to Kilmallock.
When betting opened, BoyleSports gave odds of 14/1 on Róisín being the next Rose of Tralee. She drifted out to 40/1 but was backed all the way into 7/4 just before Monday night as so many people were impressed by her.
A spokesperson for BoyleSports confirmed Róisín was well backed in Dublin, Kerry and Limerick shops. There is a Boyle's shop in Kilmallock
“Róisín stood out as the worst result for us and was so well backed she went off at just 7/4 despite once being out at 40/1.
"With strong links to Limerick, it was one of the hotbeds of support so hats off not only to Róisín, but to everyone there who cashed in!," said the spokesperson.