Sally Parkyn

IT came as no surprise but Millstreet’s first foray into world of senior international eventing was a resounding success. This was truly a five-star competition for all involved and for the Duggan family to have achieved this standard of presentation in less than 12 months was nothing short of extraordinary.

While the infrastructure at Millstreet naturally lends itself to a competition of this calibre, the focus of attention was centred across the road at Drishane Castle. There, British course designer Mike Etherington-Smith had produced a cross-country track of breath-taking quality, and assisted by Ireland’s Danny Dulohery, had delivered three courses that encouraged, educated and tested. The design of the fences themselves received the highest praise but it was the finishing touches however that set the Drishane venue apart. Many of the features were accompanied by explanatory footnotes, while the picturesque new loop that circuited Drishane Castle skilfully incorporated the history of the site.

“I was really pleased with how the course rode, and to see the horses grow as they went round and benefiting from the experience,” summed up Etherington-Smith. “The Duggans need enormous credit for the transformation of the venue. They have great, ambitious plans for the future – and I would really love to design a four-star here.”

Encouraged by the positive reports from the 2014 pony international together with a prize fund of over €27,000, overseas entries had exceeded all expectations. As a result of this influx, the first of 195 runners set out across the country at 8.45am on Sunday morning, and after a day of glorious sunshine, the final competitor crossed the line at about 6pm that evening.

In contrast, the opening two days of show jumping and dressage took place in blustery, squally conditions on and around the international all-weather arenas at the main Green Glens complex. Following hot on the heels of the Millstreet international show jumping championships, many facilities remained in situ, and one that proved a notable treat for spectators was the permanent viewing marquee that lined one side of the arena. Raising the bar in terms of comfort, the open-to-all amenity came with its own self-service restaurant, which was open throughout the day.

Reflecting on the weekend as a whole, Thomas Duggan commented: “In a nutshell I’m delighted. Running on the back of our show jumping international means it’s a lot of hard work, but it also means that many of the facilities like the marquee are already in place. This event has proved a great foundation on which to build for the future.”

One of the differences between the two sports is the amount of manpower needed on cross-country day. “We owe our fence judges, supporters and volunteers a big thank you,” added Duggan. “We couldn’t run without them, and it was a long day for them as they arrived in time for breakfast at 7am.”

While there were of course ‘first night’ teething issues, the feed-back from riders was unanimously positive. The reliance on electronic scoring rather than the traditional score board was a subject discussed by some, but one issue that definitely divided opinions was the late decision to majorly revise the cross-country running order to accommodate riders catching ferries. This was a very difficult call for the organisers, and although the outcome was much appreciated by those involved, it did detract from the competition leaving some classes disjointed and difficult to follow.

Reflecting, Thomas Duggan explained: “The change in Sunday’s cross-country running order arose due to our visitors underestimating travel times in Ireland. We recognise that it was not the most ideal of solutions for all involved but on balance ensured an action packed cross-country day with full participation from past and present champions, while also allowing riders to make the UK bank holiday Monday fixtures to which they had committed. For anyone who was inconvenienced, we extend our apologies. It was part of a learning curve for us as organisers and for our visitors as overseas competitors. We do not foresee such an eventuality in the future.”

VISITOR QUOTES

“The Duggan family should be so proud of what they have achieved here – this is one of the nicest events in Europe and one I hope to return to year after year.” Blyth Tait, New Zealand Olympic gold medallist.

“I’ve never known an event to be so helpful. They have turned themselves inside out. The course is beautifully presented in the most stunning location. It’s the best I’ve ever seen and has championship written all over it.” Nick Gauntlett, British international rider.

“Mike Etherington-Smith has done an incredible job, the courses are inspiring.” Eric Duvander, New Zealand chef d’equipe.

“Just outstanding – the most beautiful course I have ever walked.” Aoife Clark, Irish Olympic rider.

“The event has massive potential and the cross-country was hugely impressive.” Nicky Roncoroni, British international rider.

“This has gone above everything we imagined. It’s the most beautifully detailed cross-country course I have ever come across, and it was so good to be able to work and jump the horses on all-weather surfaces.” Jesse Campbell, New Zealand international rider.

“Absolutely fabulous. My juniors have had possibly the best week in their lives.” Sharon Hunt, Olympic medallist and assistant British junior squad coach.

“Such a big international feel about the place – Millstreet has the potential to be among the best events in the world.” Camilla Speirs, Irish Olympian.