150 sheepdogs to compete for national title next week

James P McGee with his dog Glengreg Silver, and Seamus Herron, community liaison officer. Picture: Clive Wasson

150 talented sheepdogs and their handlers will compete for a chance to represent Ireland at the International Sheep Dog Trials in Scotland this coming September.

The Irish National Sheep Dog Trials will be taking place in Clonmany, on the Inishowen Peninsula, Co Donegal, next week from Thursday, August 22, to Saturday, August 24. 

The trials, organised by a voluntary committee comprised of members of the International Sheep Dog Society, provide an opportunity for families and visitors to witness the partnership between handler and dog, showcasing their abilities in a series of challenging tasks.

James P McGee, chairman of the Donegal committee, said that this is a "memorable event that celebrates both the skill of the sheepdogs and the strong sense of community here in Donegal". 

"We look forward to welcoming participants and spectators to Clonmany for a fantastic family-focused event," he said.

The annual event is sponsored by SSE Renewables.

The International Sheep Dog Society organises five main trials each year within the UK and Ireland. 

National trials are normally held during the months of July and August, and the international is held in September.