Westmeath Community Development

There should be tips from all over the country floating around at the next Kilbeggan Races, on May 15, when women from all over Ireland assemble at the event as part of the ICA's centenary celebrations. Westmeath ICA members made their final arrangements for the event at the Teagasc centre in Mullingar last week, and have circulated tickets for the races to guilds across the country. "From the responses we have received so far, we are expecting a very good turnout for the day," a spokesperson told the Westmeath Examiner this week.

To cater for the crowds, local hotels have come up with special offers for accommodation and lunches/dinner - although, the spokesperson said, advance booking is essential.The ICA's national president, Anne Maria Dennison, is to be a key speaker at the ICA's reception at the races.

Other things to look forward to - besides a great day's racing - is the Best Hat competition taking place that day.

Following the races, the ICA members will be continuing their celebrations at Bloomfield House Hotel, and the following morning, courtesy of Bartle D'Arcy, there is a guided tour of Belvedere House and Gardens. "A special word of thanks is due to Paddy Dunican, manager of Kilbeggan Racecourse: we are deeply indebted to him for his generous help and support in organising this occasion with us," the spokesperson concluded. 

Westmeath ICA also produced a booklet on their activities which was grant aided by Westmeath Community Development under the Rural Development (LEADER) Programme.