3 days ago
Photos from Cork show all the exciting action of the International Horse Trials in Millstreet
With 15 countries participating, favourable weather bar a shower or two made for a hectic atmosphere in the picturesque Green Glens Complex and Drishane Estate.
Some of the best horses and riders in eventing circles descended on the North Cork location by ferry and truck with visitors drawn from the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Asia and across Europe.
The picturesque setting against the backdrop of Clara Mountain and Drishane Castle was a perfect amphitheatre for cross country with dressage and show jumping hosted in the adjoining Green Glens Complex.
'We are overwhelmed and delighted that so many international riders are coming to Millstreet, it was the largest entry since the event commenced in 2015, the arrival of so many leading figures in the international eventing world is a major highlight in the Irish calendar and we have been working hard to ensure some great competitions and a fun weekend,' said Event Director Thomas Duggan.
Upwards of 400 horses were in Millstreet, riders included double Olympic gold medalist from Tokyo and Paris Laura Collett, the Great Britain rider is a MBE recipient for her pursuits on the world stage. Collett was joined by compatriots Emily King, Izzy Taylor, Max Warburton, Jack Pinkney, Harry Horo and Gemma Stevens.
Stevens figured prominently in a number of categories and savoured the Millstreet atmosphere.
'What a weekend in Millstreet, to enjoy success here is something quite special at a great venue. For me, it's also such a relief to win on the Irish bred Flash Cooley because I've been second in a CCI4*-L class four times', she said.
Australian Kevin McNab, a silver medalist at the Tokyo Olympics is a popular visitor to Millstreet, amongst his strong line up was Newmarket Amy, bred by the Scarteen Equine Farm in Newmarket and sold to Co. Meath based Rhiannon Burton with McNab becoming the regular pilot.
En route to Millstreet, the pair enjoyed success at the Strzegom Show in Poland, a podium place also in Millstreet.
Four time Olympian Austin O'Connor was back in familiar territory, the Mallow native and UK-based rider delivered one of his finest performances to date at the prestigious Badminton Horse Trials recently, finishing third overall aboard his long-time partner Colorado Blue.
The Drishane Cross Country course saw new developments, the terrain bedded in well over recent months, new fences and a reshaped water development adding to the appeal against the backdrop of Clara Mountain with Event Director Thomas Duggan accepting the plaudits.
'We are thrilled that so many international competitors want to come here to educate their horses and enjoy the superb courses and footing here.
'It has been such a successful showcase for the Irish Sport Horse,' he said.
Equestrian excitement returns to Millstreet next month for the Pony and Young Rider Show from July 3-6 with the Millstreet International CSI2* Horse Show scheduled from July 23-27.
