ICA at the 2025 National Ploughing Championships.

The ICA marquee was buzzing with activity throughout this year’s National Ploughing Championships.

The highlight for many was the National Brown Bread Baking Competition. Helen Walker (Swords Guild, Dublin Federation), Maureen Igoe (Bonniconlon Guild, Mayo Federation) and Kathy Bolger (Bree Guild, Wexford Federation) did us proud by representing ICA at the semi-finals, with Maureen going one step further and taking home the coveted first-place prize. Her win brought great pride to the association and was the cherry on top of another fantastic year for ICA at the National Ploughing Championships.

L-R: Maureen Igoe, Mayo Federation, Helen Walker, Dublin Federation, Mary D’Arcy National President, Kathy Bolger, Wexford Federation.

Our marquee also drew some very notable visitors. Taoiseach Micheál Martin stopped by with presidential hopeful Jim Gavin, both taking the time to meet members and enjoy the warm ICA welcome. Heather Humphreys also spent time with us, sharing insights into her presidential campaign and engaging in lively conversation with attendees.

The ICA Produce Committee also launched the NEW Produce Test Booklet. This booklet was designed to support and encourage members to celebrate excellence in produce. The booklet was warmly received and will no doubt be a valuable resource for years to come.

Throughout the Ploughing, guests were treated to an inspiring programme of talks and demonstrations, from crafts skills and cookery to gardening and wellbeing, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.

And of course, the week would not have been complete without a touch of celebration. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of the ICA, so when THREE of them had a birthday during the event the marquee turned into a party atmosphere for a surprise celebration, reminding us all of the friendship and fellowship at the heart of the Association.

Finally, a very special word of thanks goes to Offaly Federation, whose hard work, organisation and dedication made the ICA’s presence at the Ploughing such a huge success. Their dedication behind the scenes ensured everything ran smoothly and that the ICA marquee was a warm and welcoming space for all.

The ICA’s presence at the 2025 National Ploughing Championships was a resounding success, a true blend of the tradition, talent, friendship and fellowship that makes our Association so special. Here’s to next year!