Dáithí Ó Sé: Judges aren't looking for faults in Roses

Dáithí Ó Sé, a long-serving host and former judge of the Rose of Tralee, has shared insights into what judges prioritize when selecting the festival's winner. Contrary to the belief that judges look for faults or mistakes, Ó Sé revealed that the competition hinges on minor details that emerge during interviews. While the margin between contestants is often slim, Ó Sé emphasized that the judges are not seeking faults but rather "little flairs" that stand out during conversation.

This perspective, gained from years of experience, differs significantly from the typical approach of judging other competitions. Ó Sé, now sharing hosting duties with Kathryn Thomas, reiterated that the televised program's impact on the judges' decision is minimal, constituting only a small part of the overall competition. During his tenure on the judging panel in 2009, Ó Sé recounted the arduous task of reaching a final verdict, highlighting the difficulty in selecting a winner, as the panel still hadn't decided just moments before the announcement. Ó Sé acknowledged that being on the judging panel is a more challenging role than hosting, as the former demands making tough decisions under pressure.

Despite this, Ó Sé expressed his enthusiasm for the festival, emphasizing the importance of establishing a connection with the Roses early on to earn their trust. He emphasized the significance of taking the time to personally interact with the Roses, sharing personal questions and creating a comfortable environment for them to open up. Ó Sé highlighted the festival's value in showcasing Kerry and Tralee, stating that it is one of the best gigs of the year and a great opportunity to celebrate his home region.