THE countdown has begun, and with just four weeks left to run until kick off on July 25th, the 10th edition of 2019 SemaLease Camphire International Horse Trials was officially launched in Waterford city last Tuesday. Held in the glittering surroundings of the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre, the launch was a reminder of how far this event has travelled in the past decade.

Next month’s West Waterford based showcase which is due to take place from July 25th-28th, will host the Irish leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup Series, a feature which as a forerunner to the Olympic Games, is set to attract teams from all corners of the globe. In addition, the popular venue will also stage international classes for all levels of the sport including the Masterclasses for the four, and five-year-old stars of the future.

Situated on the banks of the River Blackwater, and with Camphire House as the backdrop, the venue is the most scenic of all Irish events.

This, together with an almost ‘boutique’ feel to the entire weekend, has established it as one of the most popular on the eventing calendar.

Hosting the launch, Kieran O’Connor spoke to event director Paul Brady, who credited the volunteers and supporters for their energy and the passion, and gave huge thanks to the sponsors, patrons and the generous landowners, the Wilks and Browne families.

“I have to thanks all these people, especially our title sponsors Semalease, the Waterford leadership programme, Gain Equine Nutrition and Waterford Crystal for helping Camphire to grow into the event it is today. We never thought we would be hosting a Nations Cup – but in fairness, the place deserves it.”

Brady also paid heartfelt thanks to Waterford City and County Council, Castlacre and Ecclesiastical Insurance, Horse Sport Ireland and to Eventing Ireland for their continued support, and to Plusvital Ltd and Blarney Castle who have stepped up to become class sponsors. The House of Waterford Crystal will present crystal mementos to all the class winners, while Horseware Ireland, will provide rugs for the same.

Amazing event

Richard Ames’ Semalease came on board as title sponsors last year. A man steeped in the sport, as a prominent owner and avid supporter, Ames spoke with equal enthusiasm. “I’ve always had a soft spot for Camphire and it’s a great honour to partner such a prestigious event. It is wonderful to be hosting the FEI Nations Cup and I look forward to welcoming all the riders, guests and visitors – it’s going to be an amazing event.”

One rider who was present at the launch was Ireland’s WEG silver medallist and Gain Ambassador Cathal Daniels, who also spoke of his affection for the venue. As last year’s winner of the Susie Dobbs Trophy for the leading Irish rider, he commented, “I first rode at Camphire when I was about 11-years-old. It’s a very special place and I can’t wait to return.”

Another to be singled out for a mention was the evening’s equine star and Camphire contender Emperors Legion who, as the subject of the photo shoot, was accompanied by his owner/rider Ian Hannon. The son of Emperor Augustus had won the ISH six-year-old class at Grove two days earlier, and behaved immaculately in the midst of the early evening Waterford city traffic.

Next month’s fixture will feature many new and exciting developments, and opening the event to a global audience will, for the first time include live streaming action and instant scoring from www.rechenstelle.de.

The cross-country courses will see many spectator drawing features, none more so than completely new water complex, sponsored by Al Eile Stud.

Visitors to this most picturesque corner of Co Wateford will have plenty to entertain them over the weekend. The ever popular country fair with its artisan foods and crafts will be a big draw, as will the Gain Charity dog show which this time around will be run in aid of My Canine Companion, a charity whose dogs make so much difference to children.

See more on Gain’s Camphire sponsorship on 109