The RDS Dublin Horse Show is THE international sporting and social event of the summer, combining sport, style and socialising in the heart of Dublin city.
Post Olympics some of the best international showjumpers in the world will land in Dublin to compete for an opportunity to share in the €1.467m prizemoney, including the Rolex International Grand Prix on Sunday 18th with a prize purse of €500,000.
The hugely popular Nations Cup of Ireland for the award of The Aga Khan trophy is sponsored this year by The Underwriting Exchange and takes place in the main arena on Friday 16th August.
The Defender Puissance with the big red wall, a firm favourite with Irish equestrian fans is back on Saturday 17th where the bravery of the horse is matched by the bravery of the rider.
However, the show is about more than elite riders – with over 165 classes and competitions that cover everything from Irish Draught horse and Connemara pony classes to pony clubbers and ladies side saddle, from the lightweight and heavy hunters to the Racehorse to Riding horse class, there is truly something for everyone who has an interest in horses.
On Thursday evening, a presentation will be awarded to both Jessica Harrington and Col. Ned Campion to acknowledge their contribution to Irish equestrianism and The Dublin Horse Show.
And for those who don’t – there is the RDS shopping village, indoor and outdoor bars and restaurants serving local produce to street food from around the world.
Pat Hanly, Show Director, RDS Dublin Horse Show said “With 165 classes and competitions the Dublin Horse Show makes a vital contribution to the Irish Sport Horse Industry. Over the five days we will showcase the very best in horsemanship – both international and national and in keeping with the ethos of the RDS, Positive Strides which highlights the power of equine-assisted therapy and care is back at the show on Friday, Saturday and Sunday”.
For some, the show is about style with Best Dressed at the RDS Dublin Horse Show taking place on Thursday 15th August at the band lawn when one stylish person will walk about with €10,000 in cash courtesy of sponsor 1664 Blanc. It is always a day when the Champagne Bar located at the end of Ring 2 is full to the brim with people enjoying the equestrian classes and the fashion.
The Family Area located at the Church behind the Grandstand is back bigger and better with a Mini Defender Activity course as well as the very cute Festina Lente ponies, plenty of other animals and a climbing wall to keep all the family entertained.
Liam Kavanagh, CEO of the RDS said “The Dublin Horse Show is an RDS social impact initiative and an integral part of the RDS calendar. It offers so much to those who visit us over the 5 days across our 43-acre campus. Every year the RDS team strive to deliver a bigger and better show with premium partnerships and adding new experiences that underpin the ethos of this incredible institution”.
The RDS Dublin Horse Show opens tomorrow (14th – 18th August)
Slán go fóill.