"It was a religion in our house": Kiltoom's Rebecca Collins on Roscommon Rose selection
By Rebekah O'Reilly
Kiltoom native Rebecca Collins has been crowned the Roscommon Rose for the international Rose of Tralee festival taking place in August.
The 24-year-old is a Home Economics & Religion teacher at Our Lady's Bower in Athlone, and a member of Kiltoom Drama Society, recently starring in the titular role in the play 'Sive'.
Collins was one of 16 Roscommon ladies vying for the title, coming out on top.
"All the girls were amazing, and had accomplished so much," Rebecca said. "I was in complete shock when I was selected."
Despite noting that The Rose of Tralee was "a religion" in her house growing up, her journey into the competition was somewhat unexpected.
“In our house, we’ve always watched the Rose of Tralee every year growing up, the whole family would gather around for it,” she said.
It was initially her younger sister Jessica who had planned to take part this year, inspired by a friendship with a recent New Zealand Rose.
After attending a meet-and-greet event earlier this year, she had every intention of entering, but a scheduling conflict ultimately prevented her from doing so.
“That’s when I said, ‘Maybe I’ll give it a go,’” Rebecca said. “I had actually been asked a couple of years ago, but I was heading to Boston at the time. So when the opportunity came around again, I just decided why not?”
Rebecca expressed her gratitude for Yvonne Donoghue, Roscommon Rose Co-ordinator, for all her support and her consideration.
Since her selection, the level of support has been overwhelming. “I’m still a bit in shock, to be honest,” she said.
“Hannon’s Hotel were fantastic, they sponsored me for the Roscommon selection and were just so lovely to work with. And the support from Our Lady’s Bower, where I work, from Kiltoom Drama Group, my soccer team, and the wider parish has just been incredible. I’m even hearing from people I haven’t spoken to in years.”
As for preparations, Rebecca says it is still early days, but she is looking forward to what lies ahead. “I haven’t fully sat down yet to go through everything, but I’m sure that will all come in due course,” she said.
As she prepares to make this prestigious journey on behalf of the county, she has received warm congratulations locally.
Members of Kiltoom Drama Group said they are “beyond proud” of her being crowned the Roscommon Rose.
“We wish her all the best for the big night in the Dome in Tralee in August. She'll be a tough act to follow.”
Athlone Little Theatre also shared their congratulations.
Hamrocks Public House in Brideswell also shared their well wishes, noting her “outstanding personality, smile, bar skills” as “just a few reasons” she will make a great Rose.
“Without doubt she will be odds on hot favourite to become champion and take the Crown in Tralee.”
A spokeperson for Hannon's Hotel in Roscommon Town said: "Rebecca’s poise and grace, her grounded values and relatability, make her a standout ambassador. Rebecca, as we all stand beside you, go show the world the heart of our county."