WORLD number one ranked event rider Tim Price, together with his wife Jonelle, are among a number of overseas internationals expected to take part in the SemaLease Kilguilkey international fixture in Co Cork next weekend.

Although at the time of writing their entries are unconfirmed, the Prices have voiced their intention to travel, while definite applications have been received from Brazilian riders Ruy Fonseca, Marcelo Tosi and Raphael Losano, as well as from Dutch Olympian Andrew Heffernan and the Italian duo of Giovanni (Joe) Ugolotti and Alberto Guigni. Others aiming to challenge the home side will be visitors from Hong Kong, Great Britain and Morocco.

Speaking to The Irish Field on Thursday afternoon, Jonelle Price explained her reasoning for travelling, “We are needing long format qualifications at three and four-star level and these classes are hard to find.” She added: “We also feel that the going in Ireland is likely to be better than on the continent, so we are hoping to bring eight horses ourselves, as well as two for our American pupil Cosby Green. Some of these will be stepping up in class for the first time, so it’s largely an educational trip as well.”

Top tracks designed

The feature four-star tracks will have a very different feel to them this year, and not only in route but also in design.

In quite a coup, Kilguilkey organiser Danny Dulohery has acquired the services of the highly regarded designer Ian Stark who put pen to paper last year. “I rang Ian last year, and he came and walked the track, and from there we sat down and worked it out,” said Dulohery.

“The two four-star courses are completely new and the long format will include a loop running over previously unused land. These tracks have certainly been beefed up but there will be black flag options at the some of the tougher questions.”

Unfortunately, Ian will not be able to join the Kilguilkey team on the day, but will be ably represented by Britain’s Helen West.

It is good to note that Richard Ames and SemaLease have loyally renewed their title sponsorship at the venue, and it is also gratifying to see that all bar one of the eight classes on offer have been individually supported.

All these generous people will be welcome at the special marquee for sponsors, owners and riders, as well at the hog roast, which will take place on Friday evening.

The venue will also stage a national event which will take place on Sunday.