Two locals from Kilkenny to represent Ireland at World Sheepdog Trials

Miriam Lettner and Ned O’Keefe from County Kilkenny are set to represent Ireland at the prestigious World Sheepdog Trials, which is taking place from September 13-16 at Gill Hall Estate, Dromore, County Down.

Coming to Northern Ireland for the very first time, the global event has been organised by the International Sheepdog Society and is expected to welcome over 30,000 spectators alongside 240 sheepdogs and their handlers from all over the world, including Argentina, Brazil, Canada and Finland.

Irish sports star spotted in Kilkenny

Miriam and Ned will join their fellow competitors all vying to be named as ‘top dog’ with a World Champion announced at the end of the four-day event, which is sponsored by Randox Health, ABP Food Group and Gilbertson & Page Ltd.

John McCullough, Chairman of the World Trial Committee said they are delighted to have Miriam and Ned representing Ireland at this year’s trials.

"Miriam and Ned’s extensive experience and dedication will be a great source of inspiration and encouragement to other competitors and we’re looking forward to seeing them put on the great performance we know they’re more than capable of producing," he said.

"The arrival of the World Sheepdog Trials in Northern Ireland is a momentous occasion. We are truly honoured to showcase the exceptional talent and dedication of sheepdogs and their handlers on the global stage. With competitors hailing from diverse countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Canada, and Finland, this event truly exemplifies the universal appeal of sheepdog trials.

"We’ll have some of the world’s best sheepdogs and their handlers descending into Ireland in September and it is sure to be a spectacle not to be missed!"

The World Sheepdog Trials will take place at Gill Hall Estate, Dromore, Northern Ireland, from Wednesday 13 – Saturday 16 September. For more information on the four-day event or to purchase tickets, visit: www.worldsheepdogtrials.org.