De Courcey Classic and Vintage Club, in conjunction with Kilbrittain Ploughing Association, are gearing up to host a dedicated training day for those interested in competitive ploughing.

The event is set to take place on Saturday, January 31, and will run from 11:00am to 3:30pm on the Draper family's property at Artitge, Kilbrittain, Co. Cork, P72 YY60.

Agriland spoke to one of the organisers, John O'Neill, who explained that the training day is open to everyone, no matter their current skill level - from complete beginners to those considering competitive ploughing, as well as experienced competitors looking to sharpen their skills.

The training day will operate under National Ploughing Association (NPA) rules and will feature pre-ploughed training plots laid out at different stages, allowing participants to learn everything from the very basics through to more advanced techniques.

A number of local West Cork coaches and judges will be on site throughout the day to offer guidance, explain standards and provide feedback.

Additionally, demonstration plots will be completed by world, European and All-Ireland ploughing champions, giving attendees the opportunity to observe elite-level ploughing up close.

Participants are allowed to bring their own tractor and plough, with practical instruction available from experts across all NPA classes.

The classes that will be catered for on the day include:

Conventional;
Reversible;
Standard three furrow;
Vintage hydraulic/classic;
Trailer vintage;
Single furrow vintage;
Horse ploughing;
Loy digging.

Participants, coaches and spectators from all counties are welcome to attend the event, with men and women of all ages being invited.

Individuals who wish to take part in ploughing at the event must be over 16 years-of-age and hold a valid driving licence.

Registration is available online via the De Courcey Classic and Vintage Club's website or Facebook page, with a short form required to be filled out by those who would like to attend.