OWNERS and riders of young event horses will have been delighted to learn this week that dates have now been finalised for the postponed Stepping Stones to Success league at Wexford Equestrian.

Given that the Government roadmap for reopening Ireland continues as planned, the league will take place on July 21st and 28th plus August 4th, 11th (viewing day) and 18th (final) – all Tuesdays.

The venue has implemented strict protocols surrounding the resumption of activities and will follow any evolving updates or changes.

“We are very conscious of the health and safety of riders and will only open bookings for the event the week prior to July 21st once we are sure Government health policies are still in line with the event,” stated Órla Roche, owner of the Tomhaggard venue with her husband, Pat Peare.

They are pleased to welcome on board as sponsors Childeric Saddles for the four- and five-year-old event horses, Equijump Ltd for the event pony section and NutriScience (as title sponsor) plus a variety of organisations and individuals for the thoroughbred division which is for both raced and unraced horses.

There will be online entry, contactless payment and online results while the prize-giving will be run strictly in accordance with social distancing requirements. Enhanced videos will help producers sell their horses through the League which will have a total prize-fund of over €12,000.

“We have a number of weeks to build on these ideas and allow owners and riders with suitable horses and ponies get prepared,” said Roche. “It’s also important to have something for people to aim at and the League will give a welcome boost to those who wish to compete.”

Further information can be found on www.steppingstonestosuccess.ie or by contacting Wexford Equestrian on 086-3902309.