KNOWN for its strong equestrian links, Colaiste Bhride in Carnew, Co Wicklow, has been invited to host the 2016 All Ireland Schools’ Hunter Trials.

This is the first time the school has been asked to host the national event. The location chosen for the demanding competition is Lisgarvan House, Ballon, Co Carlow.

Principal of Colaiste Bhride, Linda Dunne, said: “The All Ireland Schools’ Hunter Trials has gone from strength to strength since its inception 35 years ago. A challenging competition, we expect entries from more than 100 schools across Ireland and for more than 500 competitors plus their families and supporters to attend.”

Over the past 35 years, the competition has been keenly contested and is the most eagerly awaited event on the hunter trials calendar.

It takes place each year on the weekend before/after St Patricks Day. There are three competitions - teams of three, senior singles and junior singles.

Colaiste Bhride, formed 80 years ago next year, has a strong equestrian tradition as befits its largely rural community.

In recent years the school’s equestrian teams have competed in Hickstead, winning multiple times in the schools’ competition in the past 10 years.

Colaiste Bhride welcomes any assistance with sponsorship for this All-Ireland event.