DESPITE the stringent Covid-19 restrictions and an unwelcome spell of torrential rain, the team at Kilguilkey House in Co Cork staged a much-appreciated home international fixture last weekend.

Its very running was dependent on the goodwill of those involved, and indeed all deserve a pat on the back for its success.

Juggling every aspect of the infrastructure, Danny Dulohery had pulled out all the stops to comply with the rules, even separating the on-site stabling into blocks of four. One thing that can never be predicted however is the weather, and torrential downpours over the weekend added extra pressure to the logistics.

“I thought we were in trouble, and looking back we were lucky to run,” reflected Dulohery. “As a precaution we had loads of grit ready to spread, as well as the equipment and manpower to do so. In the end, the ground stood up really well, and we only had to use it in a few places. We were able to move the ropes to give some fresh cross-country ground on Saturday, and did so again for Sunday as well as a fresh parking area. We did take out a corner, and the final fence in the four-star but it made little difference to the difficulty.”

There was a massive air of positivity around the place and an overall compliance. Peter Fell was constantly monitoring the wearing of masks, while the office used a one-way only system, and the catering was limited to stand up/take away.

“We even took hot food out to the fence judges,” added Dulohery. “Our volunteers have been wonderful, and it would not have been possible in any way to have run this without them.”

Supportive

Dulohery was also delighted to report the addition of several new sponsors. Aside from regular supporters like Fernhill Sport Horses, Plus Vital and Global Event Horses, Dulohery announced that Richard Ames and Semalease had also come on board, as had Hive Insurance and the Scarteen Stud. Another new name added to the list was that of veterinary surgeon Sabrina Barnwell, who generously presented a bottle of champagne to the leading mare in each class.

On the competition front, the varied international classes offered Irish riders a much needed chance to run and be competitive under FEI rules. As team coach Sally Corscadden explained: “It’s been brilliant, and badly needed. We have had the top riders here with their top horses which has made the classes very competitive. The time has been tight (in line with FEI rules) and that’s a good thing. It’s what they are doing abroad, it requires them (the riders) to ride the tight lines, and we can’t be making it easier here.”

Another point worth clarifying, and to clear any confusion that may have arisen, is that all the Kildare, Offaly and Laois-based riders competing at Kilguilkey had met the criteria set out by the Government, and had been cleared by Horse Sport Ireland to compete.