Free Almanac

NEXT week’s edition of The Irish Field will include a free wallchart for 2022. The almanac carries dates for many important equestrian events, as well as racing fixtures and thoroughbred auctions.

Pro/Celeb jumping challenge

IRELAND’s top jockeys and equestrian stars will compete against each other in the inaugural Pro/Celeb Show jumping Challenge at Emerald Equestrian Centre next Thursday evening, December 16th. Organised by Treo Eile, the organisation set up to encourage the retraining of racehorses, the evening will celebrate the versatility of former racehorses and thoroughbreds.

Big names from the racetrack including Davy Russell, Joseph O’Brien, Bryan Cooper, Patrick Mullins and Katie Walsh will battle it out over coloured poles against Olympic event riders Sam Watson and Cathal Daniels, plus Elizabeth Power, Michael McNally, Susan Fitzpatrick and more.

Not to be missed on the evening will be a parade of former racehorses such as Douvan, Faugheen and Sizing John and General Principle. The parade starts at 5pm, with the team show jumping at 6pm. Spectator tickets are €10 per family. The event will be livestreamed by Bit-Media on the Treo Eile Facebook page.

Underage HP committee notice

A COMMITTEE to represent the interests of parents/guardians and riders involved in Eventing Ireland Underage High Performance programmes is set to be established. A notice posted this week said the purpose of the committee will be to liaise with Eventing Ireland and Horse Sport Ireland on various issues including rider development pathway, training, communication and well-being, and governance.

If you are a parent/guardian of an underage rider who is hoping to engage with the High Performance programme in 2022 and you would like to put yourself forward for the committee, confirm your interest via email to Alison Packman alison@eventingireland.com before Tuesday, December 14th.

Georgia Stubington appointment

GEORGIA Stubington confirmed this week she has been appointed as temporary chairperson of Eventing Ireland following the recent resignation of David O’Brien.