Jiving Rachel Gibbons is aiming for Rose of Tralee ‘bonus’

MAYO Rose Rachel Gibbons joins 57 other 'Roses' in the Kerry capital this week for the 'Rose of Tralee' finals.

The down to earth 24-year-old from Annies, Hollymount, is delighted to have got so far in the competition and won't be too disappointed if she fails to make the final 32 in the concluding, televised, stages.

"Anything after winning the Mayo Rose event is a bonus,” Rachel told the Tommy Marren Midwest Radio Show.

Rachel works as an accounts assistant in Galway city for J.J. Rhatigan & Company.

She is an avid GAA fan, a passion no doubt fuelled by the fact that her brother plays senior football with both Ballintubber and Mayo.

Rachel has partnered with Mayo Mental Health Association (MHA) in her drive for the Rose title.

As a person who candidly admits she has suffered some anxiety issues in the past, she describes the MHA as "an amazing organisation.”

She adds: "It's hard to ask for help but once you do so and get the balling rolling it's amazing what support is out there.”

Rachel's long-term life plan is to work up the ladder and become a professional accountant.

"But my main priority," she stresses level-headedly, "is to be healthy and be happy."

Liker her mum and dad, Rachel loves country music and social dancing.

Expect her to invite host Brian Hurley for a jive if she makes next week's televised finals.