India 'delighted' to have been selected as Rose of Castlerea 2026
The 2026 Rose of Castlerea India Sharkey with Gerry Glennon MC, 2025 Rose of Castlerea Saoirse Webb, Susan Gaynor, secretary Castlerea Rose Festival, and Paschal Fitzmaurice, chairperson Castlerea Rose Festival.
India Sharkey was crowned this year’s Rose of Castlerea over the Bank Holiday weekend at the Trinity Arts Centre, capping off another successful year for the annual event.
Nine competitors took part in this year’s competition and were put through their paces in three rounds of judging.
MC for the event was Mid West Radio's Gerry Glennon.
India, who was crowned by last year's winner Saoirse Webb, was sponsored by The Cosy Bar, where she works part time. The former Castlerea Community School student attends the University of Limerick where she is studying a BA in Criminal Justice.
Judges and the audience alike were impressed by her piano performance of an Adele song.
It was a proud day for her parents, Claire and Mike. She expressed her joy after winning the competition: “Pinch me I still can’t believe it! I am absolutely delighted to have been chosen as the Rose of Castlerea 2026. What an incredible week it has been. I had the best time with all of the girls, and I've made so many amazing memories and friendships.”
She thanked the Rose Festival Committee her sponsor, The Cosy Bar, along with everyone who encouraged her at the event.
“I can’t wait to represent Castlerea over the coming year and make the most of every opportunity,” she concluded.
