MADAM,

What a wonderful spectacle the 2024 Dublin Horse Show at the RDS was. It has been 52 years since I won the 138cm championships on the Cogan family’s Bright Butterfly, and the jumping competitions continue to be of the highest standard.

In the main arena, Rolex is attracting the best in the world who came to a fine grass ring where Alan Wade created superb courses, producing excellent competition in the Nations Cup for the Aga Khan Trophy and the best jump-off in a five-star Grand Prix you could ask for. Huge thanks to Leonard Cave, Main Arena director and his team, to the Show Director, Pat Hanly, Fiona Sheridan and all the staff at the RDS. Friendly volunteering is alive and well at the RDS, thank you to all for your hard work and efficiency, smiling all the while. I look forward to the 150th edition next year!

Yours etc,

John Ledingham

Comdt of the Army Equitation School (Retd)

Co Meath

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MADAM

Congratulations to the Dublin Horse Show on another week of world-class competition.

Particular praise for the organisers of the Racehorse to Riding Horse class, which is growing in stature year on year, showcasing the versatility of these great animals.

Great skill is required by their handlers to aid the transition from track to show ring and field. Any of us handling thoroughbreds on a daily basis are aware of what is required and can appreciate the work needed to achieve this. Not all horses are suitable for second careers, but with Treo Eile’s help and independent assessment, established racehorse trainers might consider retraining as an alternative source of income. We’ve some distance to go before we catch up with the neighbours across the water in terms of these classes, but we’ll get there!

Yours etc,

Brian Coonan

Co Kildare