Tánaiste runs into intercounty rivalry at Kilkenny show
Kilkenny “cats” and their offspring, known in rural Ireland as “piscins” as well as intrepid Déise day-trippers were among the crowds who flocked to the show.
Chairman Walter Walsh explained that the event has a history dating from 1826 when it was started to display the produce of the land and livestock and join in friendly rivalry. That rivalry was continued inside and outside the judging rings yesterday as exhibitors vied for showing honours within and Kilkenny and Waterford hurling supporters engaged in delightful banter outside.
There was a dominant display of Kilkenny colour and pride ahead of Sunday’s All-Ireland final encounter with Waterford. Men, women and even little babies being wheeled about in buggies wore the black and amber but there was also a good smattering of blue and white kit about.
The Tánaiste, fulfilling a promise to open the show, which she gave when agriculture minister, wisely decided it was not a day for a Donegal woman to become embroiled in the tribal loyalties of Waterford and Kilkenny just ahead of an All-Ireland final.
As befitting her high office, she remained strictly neutral both in her sartorial colours — she wore grey — and in the address she gave before heading off on a tour of the showgrounds
However, she said there is a great passion in the GAA, and also in agriculture which continues to play an important role in the national economy.
Kilkenny’s reputation for ground hurling, verbal and sporting, can never be overlooked and they hit back in the banter at Iverk Show yesterday with a riddle of their own for the Waterford crowd.
“What’s the difference between a Waterford ticket and a Kilkenny ticket for the hurling final?” they asked in mock seriousness, before answering with twinkling eyes: “The Waterford tickets have maps on the back.” Ouch!
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