Life as an Irish Rose of Tralee contestant in New York

The Rose of Tralee began as a way of bringing emigrants back to Ireland and for them to celebrate their nationality at a time when there was nothing for them in Ireland. The contest is in its 50th year, and that is testament to the organizers and the Irish diaspora.

I had to remind myself that most of these girls had parents or grandparents who left Ireland with little choice, and to see their beloved daughter/granddaughter entering the Rose of Tralee meant the world to them.

When the lovely Genevieve O’Reilly won the New Jersey Rose Title, the first thing I thought of was her father, the Cavan man who was bursting with pride as he took pictures with her. I don’t think it could ever mean that much to my dad.

When the winners were announced -- Ashling Colton for New York and Genevieve for New Jersey -- everyone was genuinely happy for them. It sounds cliché, but there were real friendships made.

The seven New York Roses and the nine New Jersey Roses got on like a house on fire, and we’re already planning a reunion. The escorts brought the craic to the event, and the rosebuds brought the cuteness.

I regret my cynicism, and I can’t believe I doubted entering. I made some fantastic friends, and I have such faith in the Irish diaspora being kept alive. I recommend it to anyone.

The Rose of Tralee is one of the ways to keep our heritage alive, and I hope it continues for another 50 years. It was an amazing opportunity, and I want to thank the two main organizers, Rita Talty and Susan Stanek, who not only organized everything, but also were great fun while doing so. I also want to thank my sponsors, the Irish Voice and IrishCentral.com.

A big thank you goes to the other girls, who completely shattered the stereotype that is sometimes associated with the Rose of Tralee. And congratulations to the two winners, Ashling and Genevieve, who will go to Ireland and represent a great bunch of girls in New York and New Jersey.

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Nster.com