THE popular Treo Eile Christmas Show, which features jockeys riding retired racehorses in a show jumping competition, has grown into a two-day ‘Festival’ this year and has been relocated to Cavan Equestrian Centre.

Taking place on Thursday and Friday, December 10th, and sponsored by Connolly’s Red Mills, the event will be free to attend for those who register in advance for a ticket.

The move to two days allows Treo Eile to offer an extended schedule of show jumping classes and festive entertainment.

Thursday’s highlight will be the Horse Racing Ireland Treo Eile Thoroughbred Classic. This signature Nations Cup-style team competition will feature 10 competing teams of four people.

The competition has attracted some of the racing industry’s brightest stars including trainers Johnny Murtagh, Gordon Elliott, Willie Mullins, Henry de Bromhead and English-based trainer Charlie Appleby, who will act as team captains.

Current and former champion jockeys Paul Townend, Colin Keane, Rachael Blackmore, Ruby Walsh, Billy Loughnane and Jack Kenendy will also line-out for the big event.

Professional equestrians such as eventing Olympian Joseph Murphy and international show jumper Ger O’Neill are also showing their support.

“This year marks a massive milestone for Treo Eile as we scale up our Christmas Festival to a two-day event at a world-class venue like Cavan Equestrian Centre,” said Andrea Ryan, CEO of Treo Eile.

“With the generous support of Connolly’s Red Mills and our many industry sponsors, we are thrilled to offer free admission so everyone can experience and celebrate the incredible journey of the thoroughbred post-racing. We look forward to announcing further details of the two-day programme in the coming weeks along with the glittering team sheet for the Horse Racing Ireland Treo Eile Thoroughbred Classic.”

Attendees can also look forward to onsite food and refreshments and shopping at the official Treo Eile merchandise stand.

Web: treoeile.com