BOOKIES have tipped Down Rose Gemma Murphy as one of the names to watch in the Rose of Tralee contest.
For anyone wanting to have a flutter on Gemma’s chances next month, Boyle Sports have put her in the top four with impressive odds of 10 /1.
But winning aside, for Gemma and the other Roses, the competition will be a two-week whirlwind of events, parties, a parade and countless public appearances.
Remaining modest about her chances, Gemma said it’s a privilege to represent the county: “I am very proud to be the Down Rose. The Rose of Tralee isn’t like Miss Northern Ireland or other contests, it’s very positive and creates good role models,” she said.
“It’s all about young, independent women who have achieved things. It’s an absolute privilege and I just want to enjoy the experience.”
The 24-year-old Newry woman will leave for the competition in two weeks and the grand final will be on August 24.
There are 34 Roses from across the world vying for the tiara and the 25,000 euro prize. Gemma’s bubbly personality combined with her steely ambition and community work impressed the judges at the regional finals.
As well as juggling two demanding careers as a social worker at a Lisburn children’s home and working in the family business, Jack Murphy’s Jewellers, the former Newry High student throws herself into voluntary work.
Since she was 13, she has been an active member of Newry Gateway Club and volunteers with PIPS and Saint Vincent De Paul.
But life hasn’t been without its hurdles for Gemma. While studying for her social work degree at Manchester University, she was diagnosed with dyspraxia and dyslexia.
Having dyspraxia means she has difficulties with hand-eye coordination and balance. However, it hasn’t held her back and she completed half of the Newry City Marathon this year.
Preparing for the contest has resulted in a busy couple of weeks for Gemma and the support from the hometown has bolstered her excitement.
“The response has been overwhelming. People are coming up to me in the street and wishing me luck. I just hope I do the county proud,” she said.
City businesses have rallied behind Gemma in her bid to become the Rose of Tralee. Karen Keenan, partner at Kogal Fashion Boutique on Merchants Quay, was one of the businesses to supply Gemma with some style.
“I love Gemma, she’s always smiling. I would say that the other Roses have got tough competition with Gemma!” Karen said.
Dress2Impress at Upper Catherine Street are creating Gemma’s flamboyant gown for the big night of the Rose of Tralee final.
Dressmaker Sabrina Murphy, from Belleek, has just two weeks to bring the designs to life.
“This is the first time I’ve made a dress for such a big event like this. At the minute the colours and design is sorted. Now I just have to make it,”she said.
Fitness instructor Claire Murphy and the team from Sculpt have been supporting Gemma by getting her body perfect.
“I think if you feel good, it gives you confidence so that’s what we’re trying to do.
“We’d just like to wish her all the luck in the world, she is going to be fantastic,” she said.
The stylists at Signature Hairdressers have been responsible for creating Gemma’s hair looks and giving her tips for styling her own locks during the competition.
Over 40 of Gemma’s friends and family will be travelling down for the big night including proud parents Jack and Pat Murphy, boyfriend Cathal Murphy, brothers Rory and Barry, sister Tina Hughes and aunt Elizabeth Bohill who will be travelling from Canada for the contest.
Gemma would like to thank all the businesses for support including Berling, Dali Boutique, Micall Henshaws, Neola, Jack Murphy Jewellers, Deborah Rose Bridal and Newry Democrat.