MORE than 66,000 people, from all parts of the country, descended on Ratheniska in County Laois this Tuesday for the first day of the National Ploughing Championships.
There were lengthy traffic delays early in the morning and it was a day for wellies and umbrellas for those who braved the elements to attend the event which is one of the biggest outdoor events in Europe.
Following day 1, the organisers confirmed that 66,250 people passed through the gates despite the poor weather.
Officially opening the three-day event, which is taking place on a 700-acre site, President Michael D Higgins encouraged farmers to explore the many ways they could help achieve "the balanced social and economic goals" he said we should all be striving for.
He said life in rural Ireland was not just a "zone of production" and he called for greater regionalisation.
The National Ploughing Championships continue on Wednesday and Thursday.
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