THE popular Banteer Gymkhana promises to attract huge entries at Maryville Equestrian Centre in Carrigaline, Co Cork, tomorrow (Sunday) for the final of the Munster Grand Prix League. A mixed array of pony and show jumping events will dominate proceedings from early morning to dusk.

With a massive €25,000 in prize money on offer, entries are expected to be even bigger than last year, when 550 took part. Organiser Jerry Sweetnam said entries are at record level in many of the classes with enthusiasts coming from all over Munster and nationwide.

“Our venues contribute enormously to one of the most successful gymkhanas ever staged in equestrian sport. Banteer is now ranked amongst the foremost within the province. Last year a massive €14,000 was raised for St. Joseph’s Foundation Centre,” Sweetnam said.

Keen competition is expected for the pony Grand Prix with the youngsters going in search of the ultimate spoils. Additionally there are a number of national finals and Banteer is hosting the concluding leg of the Munster Grand Prix League with Paddy O’Donnell, Tholm Keane, Francis Connors, Jessica Burke, Ger O’Neill, Paul Beecher, Nicholas Connors and Maura Counihan amongst the contenders for the rosettes.

“Thanks must be extended to our many sponsors for contributing to the success of the one-day event,” he added.

The show kicks off at 9am with proceeds going to the St Joseph’s Foundation based in Charleville and the Liskennet Farm Equine Therapy Centre for Autism.