MILLSTREET SET FOR INTERNATIONAL ACTION

FINAL preparations are being made at the Green Glens Arena in Co. Cork this week in advance of the 2013 Millstreet International Horse Show (CSI3*), taking place from 14th – 18th August. Returning to its traditional date in the equestrian calendar, the stage is set for one of the biggest shows yet, with the number of entries received already matching last year’s figures.

The International classes across the week are likely to provide strong competition, with the home team headed by 2012 Olympic Bronze medallist Cian O’ Connor. As well as many of the other top showjumping riders in the country, he will be joined by Nation’s Cup rider Capt. Michael Kelly, leading National Hunt jockey and Hickstead 2013 Speed Derby winner Robert Power, reigning TRM/Horseware National Grand Prix League Champion Greg Broderick and Individual Silver Junior European Medallist Bertram Allen.

A strong International contingent will be making the journey across the Irish Sea, including 2012 raider and former European Team Bronze medallist Guy Williams, British Aga Khan team member Louise Saywell and four members of the legendary Whitaker family. Millstreet will also welcome competitors and visitors from further afield, including Spain and Canada.

The show will feature 97 classes running over five days, with a total prize fund in excess of €180,000. Of the 8 International classes (including three Longines World Ranking classes), the €50,000 Millstreet International Grand Prix is the main highlight, taking place on Sunday 18th August.

Once again, Millstreet is delighted to host the final of the Connolly’s RED MILLS GBI Showjumping tour. Having included competitions at Chepstow (Wales), Mullingar, The Royal Highland Show (Scotland) and the British Masters (Southview, England), the €10,000 Leading Rider Prize will be determined by the outcome of the Grand Prix. With “Points and a half” on offer, current GBI contenders Steven Whitaker, Alexander Butler and Richard Howley will each be hoping the main competition goes their way.

While competition will be hot across the week, the show-jumps themselves are also likely to attract attention. In addition to the spectacular Irish-themed jumps that were introduced last year, a number of the feature fences from the London 2012 Olympic Games will grace the Main Arena. Visitors to the Green Glens Arena will also encounter changes to other areas of the show, including improved stabling, administration and arena surfaces.