With the Tara High Kings Festival almost upon us, one of our own Blue Kings of Tara has his sights firmly set on the title! Come along to the Hill this Saturday to cheer none other than Johnny Quinn, who will represent Skryne GFC and Tara as he takes on a group of tough warrior contenders for the title of High King of Tara.
First he must complete 6 tasks based on the qualities required to join the legendary Na Fianna Warriors. The first 4 tasks are tough physical challenges where Johnny will compete against the clock in a test of fitness and accuracy, and will also have to ward off the javelins of the opposition! The competition are both men and women that hail from as far as Russia, to as near as Navan. No bother to him! The final two tasks will show a side of Johnny we are less familiar with, when he demonstrates his poetic ability in a public address to the crowds!
The tournament is set in an early medieval village, where visitors can interact with traditional craftsmen building swords and shields, blacksmiths, tinsmiths, take part in children’s music and drumming workshops, see demonstrations of ancient Irish musical instruments, play a giant version of the 1000yr old Irish Brandubh chess game, play a giant communal drum, take part in a Children’s Archaeology workshop, watch falconry displays, listen to stories of Celtic history and High Kings, and enjoy the musical performances from the live music tent. Traditional craft stands will offer handmade celtic gifts for sale just in time to start your shopping for the season it’s too early to mention! But once you have your tickets, all of the events inside are FREE! There will be a prize for the best childrens costume on the day, and they can avail of free face painting on-site..
This is the first year of this festival which aims to offer an authentic old Ireland experience different to the usual country fairs and markets. It is a Gathering Ireland event attracting international contestants. It’s a cross-community project with an organising committee made up of Meath Travellers Workshop, the GAA, Rathfeigh & District Historical Society, An Garda Siochana, Macra na Feirme, Comhaltas, and with the full support of Failte Ireland, Meath Partnership and many local businesses. There is a strong emphasis on educational fun so get your tickets now on tickets.ie, from Maguires on the Hill, the Solstice Gallery in Navan, or Tierneys newsagents. A limited number of tickets will be available on the day.
A number of local (Meath) clubs are volunteering stewards for the event, but we could do with more! If you are interested please get in contact ASAP.
More details at www.tarahighkingsfestival.ie
Hugh Mc Nelis
Skryne GFC Underage PRO and Tara High Kings Festival organising committee
086 246 0001
