JUST as the showing season starts, Side Saddle Ireland has launched a national championship which, in association with Carr & Day & Martin, will be run on a league basis across all agricultural shows and horse shows, which are affiliated to the organisation (SSI).

There is a prize fund of €2,750, of which €1,000 will be presented to the overall lady champion, with prizes for first to sixth in both ladies and junior sections. Carr & Day & Martin are also sponsoring a best turned-out rosette for every affiliated class during the season, with a sash being presented to the lady and junior with the most turn-out rosettes when the campaign ends.