In an interview with the Irish Farmers Journal, Anna Marie McHugh, general secretary of the World Ploughing Association and National Ploughing Association assistant managing director, revealed that she is most looking forward to the parade of the ploughmen heading out to the competition field on Thursday morning.

"The opening is always a very special occasion," she said. "It is always a lovely event to have. Our parade on Thursday includes the crème de la crème of the ploughers and the best two will be picked to go and represent Ireland at the world ploughing championships."

Listen to the full interview below

She also told the Irish Farmers Journal that she is very happy with the opening day of the Ploughing. "The day got off to a slow start," said Anna Marie. "But the day has been super and the sun is out which was a concern with the showers yesterday evening."

Anna Marie believes the growth of the National Ploughing Championships year-on-year is due to the fact that they add something new each year. This year they have included an international business centre and the Innovation Arena.

There has been a 20% increase in the motoring stands here this year.