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We can’t believe that the Rose of Tralee is over for another year.
While odds had the Kerry and Derry Roses as the favourite to win before the festival kicked off, things took a turn as the women introduced themselves on stage.
Moments went viral – from cheerleading to rowing machines to Granny Dolan.
While all 32 women were a credit to themselves, only would could be crowned as the Rose of Tralee.
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New Zealand Rose Keely O’Grady has been crowned the 2024 International Rose of Tralee.
“I’m shaking so much right now,” she told co-host Kathryn Thomas.
“What I’m most looking forward to is doing this for my country. As someone from New Zealand, we’ve only had two New Zealand Roses, the last time was in 1988, so it does really mean a lot to me.”
What an incredible achievement for the 21-year-old Speech and Language Therapy student.
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She inherits the title from last year’s winner, New York Rose Róisín Wiley.
Keely wore a gorgeous green gown on the night as well as a traditional cloak from New Zealand.
We love that she connected her two heritages!
Introducing herself in her bio, she said: “Kia ora and Dia dhuit! I’m a 21-year-old, fourth-year student at Canterbury University, studying a Bachelor of Speech and Language Therapy.
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“I have recently completed a placement at a special needs school for children with autism. I hope to work in the healthcare or disability sector, helping children to communicate effectively. I love New Zealand, where I was born and raised by my Irish father and Kiwi mother. I live in Christchurch with seven of my best friends.
“I cherish a typical Kiwi lifestyle, enjoying beach trips, exploring the cities, and taking advantage of the outdoors, especially snowboarding, and road-tripping with friends. I dream of world travel, as there is so much to explore and learn. Irish dancing has been my passion since I started at age five.
“I am a six-time NZ National Champion and attended the Dublin World Irish Dancing Championships as the TIDA Scholarship Recipient. My lifelong goal is to perform with a show and tour worldwide. I draw inspiration from my family and friends who cheer me on in everything I do! I am passionate about advocating for people’s rights and aim to make a positive mark on people’s lives.”
