THE equestrian sport most affected by the weather is eventing and not just because a fixture might be suddenly, and understandably, postponed or cancelled, but because a huge amount of work goes into an event in the days and weeks beforehand, particularly at a once-a-year, all grass venue.

In 2024, 27 Eventing Ireland-affiliated events were held, with 16 being cancelled. Ten years ago, well over 40 EI one-days were staged, many at venues now lost to the organisation, such as Kedrah Castle, Annaharvey, Kilmanahan, Ballinamona, Kircubbin, Monart, Boden Park and Killossery Lodge, which would have run multiple fixtures per season, and once-a-year venues, such as Knockany, Scarvagh, Gurteen and Maddybenny.