Midlands town to be 'temporary intellectual capital of world'

Mensa, the world’s largest, oldest and most famous high IQ society, have announced an event to be held in Offaly in early May.

The society, a global community of approximately 150,000, invite people from the midlands to attend a supervised Mensa IQ test to be held at the Tullamore Court Hotel on Saturday, May 2 (2pm).

The test will be the centrepiece of the Irish Mensa Annual Gathering, a social weekend where members from across the globe meet to share ideas and enjoy the local culture, and takes place in Tullamore from May 1 to May 4.

During the annual gathering, Irish Mensa hope to welcome new local members into the international family during their stay in Offaly.

Chairman of Irish Mensa Anthony Phelan said that unlike a standard academic exam, the event will consist of two sets of puzzles and multiple-choice questions designed to measure raw mental agility rather than book-learning or school curriculum.

“Some of the world’s sharpest minds from Ireland, the UK, USA and Europe are set to converge on Tullamore. While these international visitors will be exploring local landmarks like Birr Castle and Tullamore Dew Distillery, they are also issuing a unique invitation to the people of the Midlands to see if you have what it takes to join them,” said Anthony .

He said that it's important to know that the event is open to anyone who believes they can achieve Mensa membership, and that people should know the organisation are always keen to 'breaking the genius myth' often associated with the group.

“There is a common misconception that Mensa are a closed shop for professors or rocket scientists. In reality, the society’s members in Ireland come from every walk of life, from tradespeople and students to retirees and stay-at-home parents.

"The test isn't about what you learned in a classroom - it’s about how your brain solves problems and identifies patterns.

"For many, taking the test is a way to bypass traditional Irish modesty and finally answer a lifelong question of personal potential. Those who score within the top two per cent of the population will receive an invitation to join the society and gain access to a global network of 140,000 members,” he added.

The supervised test costs €40 and is open to anyone over the age of 10 years and six months.

While the official deadline for booking is three days before the event, organisers are urging the public to register immediately, as the remaining test seats are expected to book out well in advance.

To book a place for the Tullamore IQ test, visit www.mymensa.mensa.org.uk.