Madison Ley travels to Ireland with 4-H Canada
By Joan Janzen
Madison Ley's recent trip to Ireland with 4-H Canada was a huge opportunity she was able to experience as a member of the Kerrobert Multiple 4-H Club. "4-H has given me so many great opportunities to travel to different events and meet new people," Madison said. Two years ago she also travelled to Ottawa for the Citizenship Congress. "I am currently involved in a self-directed photography project, but have been part of beef, poultry, sheep and goat and scrapbooking projects in the past."
Ireland or bust. Madison Ley sets off on her 4-H trip to Ireland, Canada-tagged suitcase packed and an Irish flag in hand. PHOTO SUBMITTED
On the edge. Madison Ley takes in the Cliffs of Moher on Ireland's rugged west coast. PHOTO SUBMITTED
New friend. Madison Ley meets a curious water buffalo during her 4-H trip to Ireland. PHOTO SUBMITTED
Dublin bound. Madison Ley and fellow 4-H Saskatchewan members stop for a photo at the Dublin sign. PHOTO SUBMITTED
Her week-long adventure to Ireland began on May 13 when her flight included lengthy layovers in Toronto, both on the way there and on the way home, affording her the opportunity to explore. "I explored Graffiti Alley on the way there and Riley's Aquarium on the way home," she reported.
After her seven-hour flight to Ireland, Madison was joined by thirty-one 4-H members from across Canada, including five from Saskatchewan. Meeting new people and getting to see a new part of the world was Madison's favourite part of her voyage.
The agriculture portion of the trip included watching horse jumping at the Balmoral Show, visiting a livestock sale, water buffalo farm, dairy farm, research centre and sheep dogs. "We had very full days with lots of travel time on the bus," she added.
"We learned about the Irish sport of 'hurling' (a sport played with a stick and a small hard ball), did a zip line tour, had supper at a castle, toured Dublin, the Rock of Dunamase and the Cliffs of Moher," she said.
The tour group's departure from Dublin took place on May 20 as they all headed back to Canada, excited to share their experience with their family and friends back home.