Competitions are at the heart of Macra. They bring clubs together, build confidence, encour-age learning, and offer members the chance to challenge themselves, whether that’s speaking in public, judging stock, welding, or pulling on the jersey for their club or county.

For many members, competitions are where friendships are formed, skills are discovered, and confidence grows both on and off the stage, pitch or field.

From local heats to county and national finals, they create lifelong memories while showcas-ing the talent, commitment, and versatility of Macra members right across the country.

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As we reach the midway point of the 2025/2026 Macra year, we’re delighted to recognise and congratulate the competition winners crowned so far, along with all those who have taken part and represented their clubs with pride.

In Question Time, Ballyhoura Macra from Avondhu claimed top honours, with a strong team performance from Billy Hedigan, Bertie Cagney, Shane Fox and Evelyn Fox.

Meanwhile, Muskerry’s Terelton Macra proved their agricultural knowledge by winning the Know Your Agriculture Quiz, thanks to the efforts of Eoin Kelleher, Adam O’Leary, Tom Downey and John Downey.

Stockjudging excellence was on full display at the Beef and Sheep Stockjudging Finals. Jessica Wilson of Raphoe Macra in Donegal took the Sheep title, Anthony Buckley from Caheragh Ma-cra in Carbery won Senior Beef, while Conor O’Riordan of Kenmare Macra claimed the Under-23 Beef title.

On the sporting front, Togher Macra, Louth, emerged victorious in the Men’s National GAA Football Final, while Caheragh Macra added to their success with a win in the Ladies’ Football Final. Danny O’Donoghue of Freemount Macra in Avondhu showcased outstanding skill to take first place in the National Welding Competition.

In other competitions, Kilkenny City Macra topped the Bowling Championships, while basket-ball honours went to Caheragh Macra, Carbery in the Ladies’ competition and Banteer Macra, Avondhu in the Men’s.

In the speaking arena, Bree Macra, Wexford, won Team Public Speaking, and Michael Lawlor of Callan Macra, Kilkenny, claimed the Impromptu Speaking title.

The competitions calendar has no intention of slowing down, with closing dates coming up for both the Creative Writing and Indoor Soccer competitions, as well as the final of the hugely popular Capers competition taking to the stage in Co. Cork at the end of the month.

Macra would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those who give of their time and tal-ents to ensure that the competitions calendar runs so smoothly each year. From staff and vol-unteers to the competitions committee and of course our generous sponsors across the cal-endar, your contributions are very much valued and appreciated.

A huge congratulations to all winners and competitors involved so far this year. If you’d like to get involved with Macra competitions or join your local club, visit www.macra.ie to find out what’s happening in your area. There really is something for everyone, whatever your interest or experience level.