Search for Carlow Rose begins as Dáithí Ó Sé launches 2023 Rose of Tralee contest

The search for the 2023 Rose of Tralee has officially begun. 

Presenter Dáithí Ó Sé has officially launched the search, with Rose selections taking place across 32 centres nationally and worldwide. 

Every Rose selected to represent her county, city or country will enjoy a nationwide Rose Tour, showcasing attractions and communities right across Ireland before arriving in Tralee for five fun-filled days of parades, gala functions, and community events. 

The launch of this year's festival took place today (February 14) by the Rose of Tralee statue - a tribute to original Rose, Mary O'Connor, and her beloved William Pembroke Mulchinock - in Tralee Town Park, Co Kerry. 

International Rose of Tralee Rachel Duffy is encouraging anyone interested in taking part to join this year. 

She said, "It’s great to be here launching the 2023 festival with Daithí - I have so many special memories here in Tralee and it has become a home away from home for me. The one thing I can say to any young woman interested is ‘go for it and apply!’

"The Rose of Tralee International Festival has truly been the most incredible experience so far and it's a brilliant opportunity to connect with other women and represent your community on a national stage. I am so grateful for all the lifelong friends and memories I have made on this journey. I wouldn’t change a thing." 

Dáithí Ó Sé also commented and said, "We're here in Tralee today at the Rose Garden and you can't see any roses, no colour at all. If you come here in August, it will be full of colour, full of people and full of real Roses as well! We are launching the International Rose of Tralee Festival search for 2023 today here in Tralee and I'm absolutely delighted to be back home in my own county. 

"We do have one real Rose here, however - and that's Rose of Tralee Rachel Duffy and if you'd like to be her, well get your entries in. We're going to have so much fun back here in Tralee in August. The streets are going to be full - full of colour, full of people and full of craic! I hope to see everyone there." 

The 2022 Benetti Menswear Rose Escort of the Year, Shane McHugh said, "Well, what a year it's been so far! I've travelled the four corners of Ireland, clocking the miles. I've gone abroad to Frankfurt and I am heading to America for St Patrick’s day - it's been one of the best years of my life. 

"The key takeaway for me has been the lifelong friendships made (not to mention the couches around the world I can crash on!) What a year it's been. All I can say is, lads get your applications in!" 

Candidates for Rose Escorts will be invited for interview in April, with successful gentlemen taking part in the famous team-building Boot Camp in June where they will enjoy some of Kerry’s most stunning locations and attractions. 

The Rose Escorts will then play an integral role in the Rose of Tralee International Festival in August supporting not only the Roses, but the wider Festival Team. 

If you think you’d like to take part and become a Rose or Rose Escort, simply visit www.roseoftralee.ie for more information on how to start your own Rose journey.

The 2023 Rose of Tralee International Festival will take place from August 18th – 22nd. 

Images: Domnick Walsh