Massive turnout for 'fantastic' Irish National Sheep Dog Trials held in Donegal

The 2024 Irish National Sheep Dog Trials in Clonmany attracted a crowd of over 1,500 spectators from across Ireland and further afield over three days.

This annual event, sponsored by SSE Renewables, saw 150 talented sheep dogs and their handlers compete for the opportunity to represent Ireland at the International Sheep Dog Trials in Scotland next month.

Despite mixed weather conditions, spirits remained high among participants and spectators alike, showcasing the incredible partnership between handlers and their dogs as they tackled a series of challenging tasks.

Peter Morgan from County Down, and his dog Nantmel Bob, nabbed first place in the Singles Class. As a result of coming in top place, Morgan will now captain the Irish team in the upcoming International Sheep Dog Trials.

Meanwhile, Eamonn A McAuley from County Antrim with dogs Jonny and Tam took home The Brace Challenge Cup. The competition was also full of promising young talent with Oisin McCullough from County Down, and dog Jan, taking home the Tim Flood Perpetual Award for the best young handler.

SSE Renewables was proud principal sponsor of the 2024 Irish National Sheep Dog Trials. The company operates several renewable energy sites in County Donegal, including Meentycat Wind Farm, Culliagh Wind Farm, and Lenalea Wind Farm with a combined capacity of 130MW. The company is also progressing Drumnahough Wind Farm near Letterkenny in partnership with FuturEnergy Ireland.

Seamus Herron, Community Liaison Officer, SSE Renewables commented: "SSE Renewables is rooted in rural communities across Donegal and we are thrilled to have been the principal sponsor of this year’s Trials. We congratulate the Donegal Committee of the International Sheep Dog Society in bringing this fantastic event back to the North-West. And of course, a massive well done to all the competitors who took part. We’ll be cheering on the Irish team in Scotland next month."

James P McGee, Chair of the Donegal Committee commented: "The sponsorship and support from SSE Renewables enabled us to deliver a memorable event that celebrated the skill of handler and sheepdog alike. A heartfelt thanks also to Donegal County Council for their Development Fund Initiative support and to all the businesses and individuals who contributed to making this event a success."

The International Sheep Dog Society is a member organisation and registers over 6,000 Border Collie pups every year on behalf of its members. The 2024 Irish National Sheep Dog Trials were organised by a voluntary local Donegal Committee under the umbrella of the International Sheep Dog Society, which is registered charity covering the four nations: Ireland, England, Scotland, and Wales.