Chicago here we come!

Speakeasy Toastmasters Club will watch with bated breath as Deirdre Linehan steps forward to compete in the semi-finals of The World Championships of Public Speaking at The Toastmasters International Convention in Chicago on Thursday,23rd August.

Deirdre's chosen speech "Dob's  Army' recalls​ her time as a young teacher when she successfully​ coached Kildare to victory in the All-Ireland Final of the Schools Basketball competition. This was an exciting speech, reflecting the rollercoaster  nature of a Basketball Final with a nail biting finale. Beginning when Deirdre competed in Club Competitions in the Speakeasy and Failte Clubs, Deirdre has displayed​ sufficient eloquence to win the various qualifying contests, culminating with her spectacular success in the District 71 Final last  May.

Here,she overcame strong opposition from the finest speakers in Ireland and Britain, becoming the second Cork representative to win top prize in the 45 years of participation in this prestigious competition.On a broader scale,the ultimate prize of winning The World Championships has been achieved on one solitary occasion - 1985 when Marie Pyne from Ennis was the winner.

Deirdre will compete against a very strong field in Semi-final 3, taking her place alongside participants from Maryland, Pennsylvania, Washington,Hong Kong and The Philippines.If she overcomes this challenging field,she will go forward to the World Championships Final on Saturday,25th August.Here,she hopes to perform another speech - "Satin Sandals".This wonderful speech, inspired by the Jenny Joseph poem- "When I grow old, I shall wear purple" is about aging disgracefully and slowing down only for the kids to "catch up".

Deirdre lists drama​ and golf among her many interests.She plays off a very creditable 13 handicap.She was inspired to join Speakeasy Toastmasters after witnessing Matt Lawlee ,a club member deliver a humorous speech about"Male post-natal depression" at a Mallow Golf Club function. As Deirdre recalls : "I was fascinated that you could write and deliver a speech about ordinary, everyday things and make them interesting​ and entertaining.I was really impressed that you could  continue to hone and enhance your speaking skills in such a helpful forum.Toastmasters helped me find a voice for my creativity.Reaching the World Championships in Chicago has been a fantastic achievement​ and great fun. I really want to enjoy this experience".

As part of her preparations for the contest, Deirdre delivered her speeches at "The road to Chicago" rehearsal evening in London.The 3 European​ contenders presented their speeches to much applause and an abundance of helpful feedback from a receptive audience." It was both a challenging and rewarding experience", said Deirdre.

Her preparations are almost complete,her bags are packed and along with her husband,Barry, she is ready to go.All that's left is for Deirdre to arrive in " the windy City" of Chicago and blow them all away with the whirlwind performances​ that she is accustomed to give. Speakeasy Toastmasters wishes Deirdre every success on her wonderful journey.

In other news, Speakeasy Toastmasters commence the New Season on Thursday,6th September in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 8.00PM.As always,guests and new members are welcome.For more information about Toastmasters, please check out our Club website speakeasytoastmasters.com or on Facebook.