Some silent footage of the 1963 All-Ireland Donkey Derby held at Rossahilly airfield in Co Fermanagh. It may appear slightly madcap and chaotic, with one young lad being flung straight over the head of his donkey, but the event was certainly taken seriously with competitors from all over the island. Sponsored by Harp Lager there was a £100 prize and trophy for the winner with further prizes in the heats. Contemporary press reports estimated there were 17,000 spectators by the time of the final. The female competitor seen at various times in the footage, including romping home in a heat win, can be identified from press photos as fifteen year old Margaet McCully on a donkey named Kerney Joker, owned by Paddy Fee from Portaferry.

An Ulster Television Production.

• Broadcasting Authority Ireland