Irishmen plough ahead for World Championship

A PAIR of top Irish ploughmen hope to follow the example of Olympic gold medal winning showjumper Cian O'Connor and Waterford Crystal by winning the world championship in Derry over the next two days.

Eamon Tracey, a 35-year-old farmer from Bagenalstown, Co Carlow, and 27-year-old contract engineer Seán Keating, New Ross, Co Wexford, will carry the hopes of the nation against contenders from 27 other countries for the Golden Plough award.

Both men have already practised on the shores of Lough Foyle for the challenging event, which will be preceded today by the 61st Northern Ireland ploughing championship.