A CO DOWN trainee doctor has become the bookies favourite to win the Rose of Tralee competition which kicks off tonight.
Orlagh McNally (23) from Saval outside Newry has her price cut to 7/2 to take the crown in the international event, now in its 58th year and which brings millions of euros to the Co Kerry economy each year.
Having just completed a five year medical degree at Queen's University in Belfast, the Down Rose is working across different hospitals in the north and hopes to specialise in intensive care medicine.
The Co Down woman enjoys hill walking in the Mournes and is doing charity work for the Cancer Fund for Children.
The last time a northerner won the title was back in 1979.
While the Sydney and Dublin Roses were the early favourites, a flurry of betting has led to the odds narrowing with the newly-qualified medic moving in.
A total of 32 contestants have been selected to take part in the live shows, the first of which will be aired tonight and will be presented by Dáithí Ó Sé.
In 2008, Ó Sé married 2008 New Jersey Rose, Rita Talty and they now have a three-year-old Mícheál Óg. He is the eleventh host and follows other high-profile presenters including Gay Byrne, Mike Murphy and Ryan Tubridy.
