Flower power to help Dublin runners
Bord Bia, host of the world-class gardening showpiece — to be held on a 70 acre site in Phoenix Park — and the celebrated former Irish athlete Catriona McKiernan yesterday announced the link-up.
The mini-marathon takes place on Bank Holiday Monday but the first 200 participants to arrive at the Bloom office in Phoenix Park on Sunday, will be presented with complimentary tickets to the event along with a plant.
Athletes must present their official mini- marathon number to avail of the gesture by Bord Bia, which is expecting the June 1-4 gardening event to attract more than 50,000 visitors.
Chief executive Aidan Cotter said the food board was looking forward to welcoming the runners, in advance of the mini- marathon, to relax and enjoy the stunning gardening extravaganza in the breathtaking setting of Phoenix Park.
More than 30 show gardens, many with interactive features, have been designed and created by Ireland’s top designers for the event, which Bord Bia will also use to showcase the best of Irish food through a large outdoor market and a special pavilion.
Each garden will have a distinctive theme ranging from traditional through to contemporary influences, providing inspiration and ideas for gardens of all shapes and sizes.
Unique features such as a 1969 Morris Minor, a sauna room and outdoor shower and even a Berlin Wall design will be included in the displays.
Environmental and social issues will also be apparent, with themes ranging from recycling to homelessness.
A speciality arts and crafts area, sculpture exhibition, a retail area, indoor and outdoor displays, a family fun learning zone, a nursery and floral display and entertainment will also be featured while Ladies’ Fashion Day on Friday will have 5,000 in prizes.
Bord Bia chairperson Angela Kennedy said Bloom 2007 will be a truly world-class event that will dazzle and inspire both serious horticulturalists and novice gardeners.
“This gardening extravaganza will be on a par with other renowned British shows, bringing together the best of Irish and international landscape gardeners, designers, horticultural producers, artisan crafts and food.
“Anyone with an interest in flowers, gardening, fine food or just outdoor life in general, will truly enjoy this event,” she said.
Details regarding opening times and tickets are available at www.bloominthepark.com or by calling 0818 300 260.
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