Onwards and upwards for the Roses

FOR most contestants, the aftermath of the Rose of Tralee involves a smooth return to normal life.

But for others, a life involving overseeing millions of euro on the New York stock exchange, London’s West End and journalism — don’t worry, it’s not me — also beckons.

The 1970 New York Rose, Noreen M Culhane, is one example of how a seemingly “lovely girls” competition can be a platform to greater achievements. Now 60, Noreen is the executive vice-president for Global Corporate Client Group — overseeing fortunes made and lost by firms listed on the highly sought-after New York Stock Exchange.