Puzzled over Greenogue

MADAM,

I NOTE with great interest HSI’s proposed moved to Greenogue. With over 40 years’ involvement in equestrianism and with no commercial or vested interests, I find the proposed move at best puzzling.

Moving to a “Centre of Excellence” seems to imply there are no excellent facilities already available. I fail to see what such a centre could offer as an improvement to the likes of Cavan, Millstreet, Mullingar, Coilog, Barnadown, etc. Excellent surfaces with world-class equipment is standard in them all.

As regards hosting and running shows, and speaking as someone who has been involved in running shows for many years, it requires as much vocation as application and knowledge. The variables are infinite! It should be no surprise that most centres are family-run businesses. It does not lend itself easily to a salaried employee.

The move, also, does not address the huge problem of the mass exodus of our young riders coming out of ponies and heading to the continent or the US. They are not leaving because of lack of facilities but the lack of international competitive opportunities. Might not HSI be better employed in assisting transport to international shows in Ireland and help with prize funding? They could collaborate with stakeholders in assisting regional development and the hosting of points-gaining international shows.

Yours, etc.,

Wilson Porter

Killucan

Co Westmeath