Mayo finalists shine bright as they prepare for Miss Ireland 2021
A DREAMY enchanted castle, an optimistic rainbow of colours, an ambitious philanthropic goal and excited smiles marked the announcement of the final line-up for Miss Ireland 2021.
Mayo is well represented this year with two contenders for the coveted Miss Ireland crown on September 5.
Miss Claremorris is Olivia Barret (21), who hails from Claremorris and has just finished her third year of studies at University of Limerick. She is currently studying criminal justice and would like to become a barrister one day.
She has a keen interest in sport having lined out with Kiltimagh Knock United and also Claremorris GAA Club.
Miss Mayo is Laura Martin (25) who has a degree in design and two in computer science, including her masters. Laura is originally from Cork but moved to Mayo three years ago to start her career, working as a marketing and design manager.
Laura is completing her third degree and masters in computer science part-time. She is a youth mentor in Mayo with Foroige’s Big Brother Big Sister programme in Castlebar, an internationally recognised youth mentoring programme that helps to form supportive friendships for young people and inspire them to brighter futures.
The18th century Killua Castle in Co. Westmeath is the stunning venue for Miss Ireland 2021. This year the final will be a spectacular outdoor show against the magical backdrop of this dreamy castle, taking place on September 5.
Current Miss World Toni-Ann Singh has been invited to jet in from Jamaica for the sparkling, highly choreographed show which will feature a dramatic light display and an eclectic mix of music and entertainment as the 30 finalists descend a magnificent outdoor stone staircase to the castle gardens.
“Rainbows remind us of possibilities, opportunities and hope, which is why we chose this theme to announce our finalists this year,” said Brendan Marc Scully, director of Miss Ireland. “We are delighted to be able to bring back Miss Ireland with a kaleidoscope of colour after such dark times. The live event in September will also be live streamed and all preparations are and will continue to be fully compliant with Covid health and safety guidelines for entertainment production.”
Established in 1947, Miss Ireland has been the launch pad for many eminent, successful, and inspiring women in Ireland. In recent years the franchise has raised over €250,000 for various charities, including Laura Lynn, Temple Street, Alzheimer’s Ireland, Pieta House, The Cari Foundation and this year are partnering with Variety Ireland, an Irish charity helping sick, disadvantaged and children with special needs since 1951.
The winner of Miss Ireland 2021 will receive a lucrative agency contract and a host of prizes including jewelry, gowns, a professional photo shoot, beauty and hair products and then go on to represent her country and take part in the 70th Miss World festival which will take place in the stunning Caribbean Island of Puerto Rico in December.