Triple Success for Mallow Speaker at Area 17 Toastmasters Contest

Members from across Cork and Kerry gather in Mallow for an afternoon of inspiring speeches

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Toastmasters from Across the Region Meet in Mallow

The Hibernian Hotel in Mallow played host to the Area 17 Toastmasters Contests on Sunday, March 8, 2026, as members from clubs across Cork and Kerry gathered for an afternoon of lively competition and engaging public speaking.

The event featured three of Toastmasters’ most popular contests: the International Speech Contest, the Table Topics Contest, and the Evaluation Contest, each designed to challenge different speaking skills — from prepared speeches to impromptu responses and constructive feedback.

James McConville - Contest Chair for the Area 17 Speech Contest 2026

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Strong Competition Across Three Contests

The International Speech Contest saw impressive performances from Anne Lawlor (Tralee), Frank O’Sullivan (Killarney), and Pat Sexton (Mallow). Each speaker delivered a carefully prepared speech, showcasing storytelling, structure and delivery.

In the Evaluation Contest, contestants were tasked with evaluating a speech titled “A Defining Moment.” The target speech was delivered by Patricia Radley, Division A Director, providing the competitors with the opportunity to demonstrate their analytical and supportive feedback skills. Taking part in this contest were Pat Sexton (Mallow), Philip O’Brien (Fermoy), Selma Dineen (Killarney), and John McGillycuddy (Tralee).

The Table Topics Contest, which challenges participants to speak spontaneously on a surprise topic, asked contestants to consider the question: “Is Shakespeare still relevant today?” Speakers Anne Hannan (Killarney), Pat Sexton (Mallow), Philip O’Brien (Fermoy), and Vicky McCarthy (Tralee) each delivered thoughtful and entertaining responses.

Speak Easy Mallow Club members supporting Pat Sexton (centre) 

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Outstanding Day for Mallow Competitor

The highlight of the afternoon came with the announcement of the results, when Pat Sexton of Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters achieved a remarkable clean sweep, winning all three contests on the day.

The achievement was warmly applauded by fellow competitors and audience members alike, reflecting both the high standard of speaking and the supportive spirit that Toastmasters encourages.

All Smiles - Speech Contest Runner-Up Anne Lawlor and Winner Pat Sexton

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Looking Ahead to the Division Contest

Following this success, Pat Sexton will now represent Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters and Area 17 at the Division A Contest, which will take place at Brú Columbanus, Cardinal Way, Wilton, Cork (T12 TN97) on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 12 noon to 3pm.

Members of the public are welcome to attend and experience the inspiring atmosphere of Toastmasters contests.

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Celebrating Community and Communication

The event brought together speakers and supporters from Killarney, Tralee, Charleville, Fermoy and Mallow, creating a memorable afternoon that celebrated communication, leadership and personal development.

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters congratulated all participants for their efforts and for contributing to an enjoyable and high-quality contest day.

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters Host High-Calibre Speech Contests

 

A Special Contest Night in Mallow

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters held a slightly different kind of meeting on Thursday, 19th February 2026, gathering at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, from 7.45pm for an 8pm start. The evening took the form of a club contest meeting, showcasing some of the strongest speaking talent within the club.

Club President Mr Paul Corcoran opened proceedings and welcomed members and guests before handing control to the Contest Chair, James McConville, who oversaw the programme for the remainder of the evening.

Our 3 Toastmaster Competitors - Bobby Buckley, Claire O'Connell and Pat Sexton

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Judges and Officials Set the Standard

The contest team ensured the evening ran smoothly and to Toastmasters standards.
Noel O’Connor served as Chief Judge, assisted by counters María O’Donnell and Rose Murphy.
Timing duties were handled by Margaret O’Regan and Juan Miguel Camarasa, keeping each speaker precisely on schedule.

For the Evaluation Contest, the role of test speaker was kindly filled by Finbarr Harty, who travelled from Talking Heads Toastmasters Club in Garryvoe who meet on Tuesday evenings. 

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International Speech Contest Takes Centre Stage

The first competition of the evening was the International Speech Contest, featuring three Speak Easy members: Claire O’Connell, Pat Sexton, and Bobby Buckley.

Drawn at random, Pat Sexton opened with his original speech “Toreador – Until You Hear the Bell,” entertaining the audience with a confident and polished performance.
He was followed by Claire O’Connell, who delivered “Barter Smarter,” an engaging and thought-provoking speech on financial wisdom.
The contest concluded with Bobby Buckley, who rounded out the session with “You Remind Me of the Baroque,” a speech that blended humour and reflection.

While the judges deliberated, each competitor received a certificate of participation, and the meeting paused for a well-earned tea break.

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Insightful Evaluations in the Second Half

The second half of the meeting featured the Evaluation Speech Contest. Finbarr Harty delivered his original speech “Time for a Cuppa,” and the three contestants — Claire O’Connell, Pat Sexton, and Bobby Buckley — each presented their evaluations in turn.

Each evaluation offered constructive feedback, encouragement, and clear suggestions for improvement, reinforcing the Toastmasters ethos of confidence-building and supportive learning. The session proved both educational and thoroughly enjoyable for speakers and audience alike.

While the judges deliberated, the club kept the energy high with a short impromptu Table Topics session, encouraging audience participation and engagement.

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Results and Recognition

The announcement of results brought the evening to an exciting close.

In the International Speech Contest, First Place went to Pat Sexton for “Toreador – Until You Hear the Bell,” with Second Place awarded to Bobby Buckley for “You Remind Me of the Baroque.”

In the Evaluation Contest, Pat Sexton claimed First Place, while Claire O’Connell secured Second Place.

The overall standard of the meeting was exceptionally high, reflecting the dedication and preparation of all involved.

Contestant Claire O'Connell with Contest Chair James McConville

Contestant Bobby Buckley with Contest Chair James McConville

Winning contestant Pat Sexton with Contest Chair James McConville

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Looking Ahead to Area Competition

As a result of his wins, Pat Sexton will now represent Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters at the Area 17 Competition, taking place on Sunday, 8th March, from 2.00pm to 5.00pm, once again at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow. All are welcome to attend, including guests to support the competitors. Our next scheduled meeting is Thursday, 5th March at 8pm.

Anyone interested in learning more about Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters or getting involved is invited to get in touch by sending a direct message on Facebook or Instagram by searching for “Speakeasy Mallow.”