Emer Bermingham

JUST a few weeks off Mullingar International CSI**, management at the top Midlands centre confirmed the TRM/Horseware National Grand Prix and Premier Series will not form part of the 2016 show schedule.

The move follows consultations with the show’s sponsors and it’s understood that the SJI will be meeting to discuss the development next week.

Speaking to The Irish Field, Mullingar Show director Robert Fagan said: “Mullingar International CSI** will not host a round of the TRM/Horseware Grand Prix or Premier Series this year.

“We have never held a national Grand Prix at Mullingar but did host a Premier. We have a full line-up of national show jumping classes and we are delighted to have them as it opens up our show to riders of all levels.

“We became aware that there was confusion last year over mixing league and series sponsors with our existing sponsors. So it is in light of this, that we made the decision not to host a leg of either of the leagues as we are conscious not to detract from our main sponsors on the weekend. Our show is evolving and it’s important for us that our sponsors are looked after.

“In doing this, we feel that it is vital that there is no confusion as to who is the title sponsor and that it is fully in our control on the day. I am happy to report that our entries are up on last year at this stage with definite entries from Australia, Finland, Sweden, Canada, Scotland, England and Wales,” said Fagan.

SJI spokesperson Robert Wallace said: “The National Competitions Committee have been informed that Mullingar International Horse Show will not be hosting a round of the Horseware/TRM National Grand Prix and Premier Series as previously scheduled at their upcoming show. The committee is convening early next week to discuss the matter further.”

Meanwhile, SJI’s Munster Region will host its own version of Jumping in the City with the blessing of Horse Sport Ireland.

Munster will run qualifying rounds in Limerick and Cork on Friday, June 24th and Friday, July 8th. It will feature a 128cms class, a Grand Prix, an amateur class and possibly a celebrity class.

INITIATIVE

Horse Sport Ireland said: “Horse Sport Ireland has accommodated this proposal by designating the events as qualifiers and welcome the initiative taken by the region.”

Munster region show jumping chairman Tony Hurley said: “We are delighted that Horse Sport Ireland have agreed to support our initiative and we look forward to two successful nights leading to a spectacular conclusion in Shelbourne Park on August 5th where we also celebrate Ireland’s equestrian athletes participation in the Olympic Games.”