A stunning image of the Red Arrows taken over the Causeway Coast and Glens by an Ards photographer has won a prestigious worldwide photography competition.
Local photographer, Donna Rowley from Newtownards, captured the spectacular image at the Air Waves Portrush International Airshow, which has just announced that the Red Arrows will once again perform on both days of this year’s air show on 2nd & 3rd September.
Donna, from Newtownards, won the top prize in the Military Aviation category of the Air&Space/Smithsonian Annual Photographic Competition, beating off stiff competition from finalists from across the globe.
She is the only woman in the competition’s history to have two images shortlisted in any category.
Speaking about her success, Donna Rowley said: “For an avid photographer and an aviation buff like me, this is a dream come true. I was gobsmacked to be the only photographer from the UK or Ireland to be shortlisted for this high-profile competition, but to actually win is an amazing achievement.
“I captured the photograph from the Silver Wings hospitality chalet at the Air Waves Portrush International Airshow which provides the best vantage point for capturing amazing photographs of some of the world’s most famous aircraft.”
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, organisers of the biggest free airshow on the island of Ireland will once again be pulling out all the stops to deliver a packed programme of aerial entertainment this September.
Richard Baker, Director, Leisure and Development, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said: “Air Waves Portrush is one of the most anticipated diary dates in Northern Ireland’s Events Calendar and we are incredibly excited that the RAF Red Arrows have just confirmed they will be in the skies over the Causeway Coast and Glens on both days of the event again this year.
“Indeed, we are very fortunate to have such support with the supply of RAF flying attractions and we have no doubt that visitors of all ages will enjoy this year’s programme, both in the air and on the ground with our vast array of entertainment, children’s activities, careers fair, STEM marquee, trade stalls, craft market and artisan foods.
“This year’s Air Waves Portrush event will be another fantastic weekend on the sea, on the land and in the sky and we’d encourage any visitors to get the weekend booked in as soon as possible.”
“We would also encourage any aeroplane enthusiasts to register their interest for the Silver Wings Hospitality Chalet – the best seat in the house, with lunch, private bar, exclusive parking and front-row views of the weekend’s aerial spectacles. Space each day is limited so advance booking is essential”
For event information visit:
