Sweet Carolann Gets Rose Of Tralee Ready

Carolann gets the Wicklow Rose title SAT11MAY26

e’re very much aware of the fact that we might sound a tad biased here, but there’s very little doubt in GG’s mind that Greystones’ Carolann McDonald has a pretty strong chance of winning this year’s Rose Of Tralee.

Mainly because, whichever way you cut it, the Kindlestown lass is a winner.

She’s smart, she’s funny, she’s sweet and, of course, she’s a feckin’ stunner. And when it comes to the talent turn on the night, sure, isn’t Carolann an award-winning, globe-trotting, baton-twirling gymnast, having represented little ol’ Ireland at both European and World Championships…?

That should knock Dáithí Ó Sé clean off his feet. If Carolann aims that baton just right.

Having recently graduated with a Master of Pharmacy degree, this 24-year-old dynamo headed to the Wicklow Rose finals last Saturday (with a little sponsorship help from the town’s Brooke & Shoals), and was clearly a little shaken upon hearing her name being called out as the winner.

“I was completely speechless when my name was announced as the Wicklow Rose,” she tells your snoreaway Guide. “It was such a surreal and emotional moment, one that I still can hardly believe. I am beyond thankful for all the support I received from my family and friends who cheered me on throughout the night.

“I am so grateful as well to have shared the evening with the other 17 girls, and the support, friendships, and bonds we formed throughout the experience are something I will cherish forever.

“The Wicklow Rose Centre organised such a fantastic night too, and they made everyone feel so supported and celebrated.”

From here, all roads lead to Tralee for August 14th to 18th, Carolann getting to meet her fellow Roses from near and far as they share in a once-in-a-lifetime experience that so many lovely ladies over the decades have only dreamt of since it first began in 1959.

“It means the world to me to have the opportunity to represent my family and community as the Wicklow Rose,” finishes Carolann, “and I am incredibly proud to carry their support and encouragement with me on this journey.”