Dogs and their handlers from many countries are in Tullamore for the World Sheepdog Trials.
There are 241 dogs and their handlers from 21 countries taking part in the Enfer World Sheepdog trials.
The 40 entries from the United States are joined by competitors from as far afield as Australia and New Zealand who have travelled to Ireland to compete at the trials.
It's the biggest event in the sheep handling world ever to take place.
Spokesman for the World Sheepdog Trials, Loughnan Hooper estimates that the event is worth €2 million to the region. Tullamore was secured as the host of the event in 2003 after an Olympic style bid between Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales.
Tullamore was chosen because of the history of the Tullamore Show and obviously the location here with fabulous settings, with oak trees and Charleville Castle in the background.
Participating teams had to comply with stringent veterinary regulations. Selwyn Dorward, New Zealand captain, describes the 36 hour journey for the dogs from Auckland to Sydney and Singapore and on to London. They travelled from England to Rosslare and on to Tullamore for the championship, where they are now ready to compete.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 8 July 2005. The reporter is Mary Fanning.
