WHILE the emphasis within the membership of the Association of Irish Riding Clubs at present is on qualifying for the two show jumping championships, and, for some, on Sunday’s event at Flowerhill, for those who prefer staying on the flat, they are anticipating the start of the dressage qualifiers.

Between the many equestrian organisations in the country using their facilities, some venues are extremely busy, such as Castle Irvine, Necarne, where the Western Region is due to hold their qualifier on Sunday, May 24th. On the same day, the West Leinster Region will be taking over Redhills Stud.

The remaining dates and venues are Saturday, June 20th Killossery Lodge Stud (North East Region), Sunday, June 28th Skevanish EC (South West Region), Sunday, July 5th Marlton Stud (South Leinster Region) and Duffy’s EC (West Region), Sunday, July 12th Tinahely (South East Region), Sunday, July 26th Roscrea EC (West Midlands Region) and Emerald Equestrian (Midlands Region).

All details regarding the rules and tests being ridden can be found on the AIRC website. The final is scheduled for Sunday, August 30th at the Mullingar Equestrian Centre.