And that's a wrap! Over 200,000 attend National Ploughing Championships 2023

THE National Ploughing Association has confirmed the attendance at this year's National Ploughing Championships was just over 200,000 across the three days.

The more than 62,000 who attended on Thursday enjoyed the best of the weather as the curtain came down on what is Europe's largest outdoor event.

There was a wonderful atmosphere on Thursday with exhibitors and visitors alike thoroughly enjoying themselves on the final day of this year’s ‘Ploughing’.   

Speaking at the close of business, NPA Managing Director Anna May McHugh said: “Despite experiencing a very wet start on Tuesday, the overall mood for this year’s Ploughing has been incredibly upbeat and positive.  With so much for visitors to enjoy from quality livestock and serious machinery to fashion, playground, innovations, crafts & cookery competitions and sports stars galore there was something for every member of the family to enjoy.”

Attending on Thursday, having returned from New York, Tánaiste Michéal Martin, congratulated the NPA on another great year.

The Fianna Fail leader paid tribute to Anna May McHugh, the NPA, gardai, staff and the several hundred volunteers required to host an event of its scale and scope.

The much anticipated National Brown Bread Baking Competition final took place in the Aldi tent on Thursday in front of an audience of several hundred people.

@Aldi_Ireland National Brown Bread Baking Competition winner Loretta McGuire from Co. Mayo, alongside NPA MD Anna May McHugh and head judge Eileen Brennan #Ploughing2023 pic.twitter.com/ZAvukrSD8z

— National Ploughing (@NPAIE) September 21, 2023

The overall winner in first place was Loretta McGuire from Mayo, who was absolutely thrilled with her win.

In the ploughing competition, Eamonn Tracey from Carlow won the overall Conventional class, while West Cork man Jer Coakley won the Reversible Ploughing competition.