The new Rose of Tralee has described her win as an “absolute dream come true”.
Yesterday in Kerry, Laois’ Katelyn Cummins was crowned the Rose of Tralee to rapturous applause.
The 20 year old is the first Laois Rose to win the title.
On Newstalk Breakfast, Ms Cummins said she was “most definitely” shocked when her name was called out.
“I did not expect my name to be called out even at the Laois show selection,” she recalled.
“It was such an honour to representing Laois and now to be representing the Rose of Tralee International Festival is an absolute dream come true.
“I think it’s a bit overwhelming at the same time but I think it’ll take me a few days to get used to it.”
Congratulations Katelyn Cummins! The 20-year-old apprentice electrician from Ballyouskill has been selected as the 2025 International Rose of Tralee - the first Laois Rose to take the title. #RoseofTralee #RTE pic.twitter.com/RGeVwXOs0x
— Rose of Tralee (@RoseofTralee_) August 19, 2025
Ms Cummins is currently an apprentice electrician and believes there is still “so much stigma” surrounding women’s career choices.
“I think that we should do whatever we want to do,” she said.
“No matter where our dreams take us, no matter what the career is and I think you should always believe in yourself.”
Ms Cummins continued that she “loves” her apprenticeship and “wouldn’t change it for the world”, adding that her father would be “delighted” if she took up farming.
We love Laois Rose Katelyn Cummins 🌹 20, from Ballyouskill – an electrical apprentice, camogie player & Macra chair with a love for travel and adventure. #RoseofTralee pic.twitter.com/MzYAtvei7F
— Rose of Tralee (@RoseofTralee_) August 19, 2025
“I’m not going to agree just for my own sake because I think he might hold it against me,” she said.
“I don’t mind the old farming the odd time; during the calving season I do help out a lot.
“I don’t mind milking the cows and feeding the calves - that’s okay.”
Main image: Laois Rose Katelyn Cummins. Picture by: Domnick Walsh Photography.
