MANY equestrians are familiar with the company name John Ormonde Wexford Sand. The company has been in the specialty sand business for over 20 years. Through collaboration with trainers and competitors on a local and national level; John Ormonde Wexford Sand has gradually cultivated this experience to become innovators in developing the finest synthetic mixed surfaces for equestrian use.

Horse Sense asked John to give an example of the service and recommendations he would have for a customer who was a horse riding parent with a child and pony and who wanted to build an arena at home. This is what he said: “We like to advise correctly and, although someone like this may come to us and think they want a 60m x 40m arena, what we do is make them aware of the huge job it is to maintain an arena that size. Often a family like that won’t have the machinery and equipment to keep an arena that size and we have to remind them that it costs more to upkeep, more harrowing and a lot of water to spray during the summer months to keep it right.

“What we feel is often a better option is a 50 x 30m arena which can handle a gallop with a mid-use surface which can cope with show jumping up to 1.10m but which also has a nice bounce for a bit of dressage. In terms of cost, you’re looking at about €35 to €45 per m² plus VAT, this is for the finished arena ready to go including drainage and fencing et cetera.”

John’s company prides itself on the quality of its work and their customer care and offer on-going support and maintenance to their clients no matter how large or small their operation.

John Ormonde Wexford Sand only use specialty clean sub angular Wexford Sand and post industrial fibres that are fully traceable. Free from dust and chemicals. Good for you, your horse and the environment! We are CIF, CIRI and the Department of Agriculture approved.