Energy and atmosphere on competition night at Mullingar Toastmasters

Energy and atmosphere are always on display during competition night at Mullingar Toastmasters, and, as you would expect, winners were chosen. That said, something else was picked up on, a reminder why members and guests show up in the first place.

While the format of the evening looks competitive at first glance, it has a way of revealing something meaningful relating to public speaking and personal growth, During the meeting, speakers shared ideas about resilience and awareness. Key phrases like ‘keep your head up’, ‘live in the present moment’, ‘speak up when it matters’ and ‘stand your ground and fight for what you believe’ echoed across speakers.

Even though a different life experience was reflected in each speech, a common thread remained – action breeds confidence. Giving a speech at Mullingar Toastmasters gives you the opportunity to test ideas, face your nerves, and learn in front of people that support you.

The strengths of the speakers were reflected in the results; for the International Speech Contest, first place went to Deirdre Bigley, second to Brian McLoughlin, and third to Pat Kenny. In the Evaluation Contest, Philip Howlin was first, John Waldron second, and Brian McLoughlin third.

The next meeting of Mullingar Toastmasters is on Thursday March 26 at 8pm in the Greville Arms Hotel. Guests are always welcome.