Entrants were required to learn off a number of poems and recite these in competition over a number of rounds. The preliminary rounds were held in the impressive surroundings of the National Library on Kildare St. Barry Lennihan (6th Year) made it through to the semi-finals and final, which were held over a long day in Wesley College.

Barry finished as runner-up in the senior section. Prizes were presented by Uachtaran na hEireann, Mary McAleese. A special thrill for the finalists was being congratulated by and photographed with Nobel Prize winning poet Seamus Heaney.

A special thanks is due to Fiona Lester who prepared the boys for this prestigious competition.