HUGE entries for the CSIO Youth Show in Compiegne, France, meant that it was a limited Irish contingent travelling to what has to be one of the most picturesque venues on the circuit. Set in acres of bluebell dusted forestry, and within walking distance of the cobbled streets of Compiegne, the venue itself has one of the most beautiful arenas in France, although behind the glamour of the setting lies the muddiest of lorry parks, so keeping turnout up to standard proved challenging for man and beast!

The strict cap on entries meant that a maximum of seven riders from each country could compete in each category, and Ireland were represented in the U14 Children on Horses, U16 Ponies and the U18 Juniors.