SHE may be wilting a little after a hectic week in the Kingdom, but Carlow Rose Jessica Adamson will be back to full bloom when she returns to the classroom this Wednesday.
The primary school teacher may not have been crowned this year’s International Rose, but she’s sure to be a winner in Knockananna NS this Wednesday when she welcomes her new class of junior and senior infants to the school.
The beautiful Jessica glittered in Tralee last week, making her a firm favourite not just bookies but with all those who attended the Rose of Tralee festival. “I’m shattered since getting back. Really, it’s been hectic ever since I won the Carlow Rose,” said Jessica on Monday.
“I had an absolute ball in Tralee. It’s a shock to the system to get back to normal. It definitely is a bit sad that it’s all over,” she admits.
One of the highlights for Jessica was the parade through the streets of Tralee, cheered on by 15,000 spectators, followed by a fireworks display. She also made friends for life with many of the 32 Roses in the competition.
“My room mate was the New Orleans Rose, and we were like two peas in a pod. All the girls were lovely – we had a ball together and some of us even met up yesterday to help with the withdrawals,” she smiles.
Jessica also wished winner London Rose and Athy native Clare Kambamettu well in her year as the Rose of Tralee.
“She’s a really lovely girl,” said Jessica.
“She was fantastic and I’m sure she will do all of us proud this year.”
Jessica enjoyed fantastic support from her family, her boyfriend Wesley Byrne and her friends, many of whom travelled to Tralee to cheer her on. Thousands of Carlovians (and a few Wicklow fans!) eagerly watched from home as Jessica took to the stage in the Dome for her interview with new presenter Daithi O’Shea.
“Oh, he was brilliant! He put everyone at their ease,” said Jessica.
Jessica looked every inch the rose on stage in a beautiful gown by Darlingwear, Tullow and shoes by Tresor at Rathwood.