Sally Parkyn

INTERNATIONAL eventing moves to Co Cork next weekend, where the Fernhill Sport Horses Kilguilkey International Horse Trials runs over two days, June 20th-21st.

Carol Gee’s Kilkenny yard has enjoyed a long association with the Cork venue, and having sponsored the CIC two star class last year, Gee decided to put her weight behind the entire venture in 2015.

Probably the most influential change however, will be the input from new course designer Mike Etherington-Smith. A veteran of the Olympic Games, the World Equestrian Games and numerous other high profile events, Etherington-Smith worked alongside organiser and course builder Danny Dulohery at the pony European championships at Millstreet last year. “He’s not only very knowledgeable but so inspirational,” said Dulohery. “We feel privileged that he has become involved with Kilguilkey and we feel that he has taken the track to another level.” The course bears little resemblance to that of 12 months ago, as both the CIC** and the CIC* will run in an entirely different direction. Adding his unique stamp, Ehtherington-Smith has added loops, fresh complexes and a glut of new fences, while the underfoot terrain has been specially treated.

“The tracks have been managed for the past few months,” said Dulohery. “They have been roped off and topped to ensure that there’s a lovely cushion of grass.”

The pair are working on a three year plan, aiming to upgrade to CIC*** level next season. Although there are no riders travelling from overseas this year, the event is an important one for Irish competitors with valuable qualifications to be gained.

Michael Ryan and Fraser Duffy head the list of senior international riders in the Pegus Horse Feeds CIC**. Both hold multiple rides, while Carol Gee also holds an entry with her favourite Fernhill Mayhem. Possibly the one they will all have to beat however, is the local partnership of Rebecca Dunlea and Cashelane Captain. Triumphing in all of their three starts this year, the pair has made no secret of the fact that this title has always been their aim. The in-form Steven Smith and George Russell also hold strong entries, as do junior European gold medallist Cathal Daniels (Kilrodan Queen B) and Heidi Hamilton with Dam Easy.

The CIC* entry of 37 runners includes a number of recent winners. Co Limerick rider Dominic Furnell (Ballymolloy Rogan) and Antonia Ward (Silver Champion) challenge the field on the back on a run of recent good form, while Fraser Duffy looks ready to strike with Summer At Fernhill. Another boost for the event is the continued support from its sponsors. As well as Fernhill Sport Horses, long term enthusiasts will support the CIC two-star class.

“Tony Hurley and Declan Cullen of Pegus have a deep knowledge and passion for eventing and show jumping,” explained Dulohery. “And fittingly Pegus Horse Feed is milled just several miles away from Kilguilkey. We are also lucky to have a good numbers of fence sponsors this year, many of which are riders, owners and local businesses.”

Supporting the two international classes is an important CNCP** which will incorporate the final trial for ponies. This will take place on Saturday and Sunday, while the latter day will stage, as will a full quota of EI 100 classes.