THE Meadows Equestrian Centre in Lurgan, Co Armagh is gearing up for what is expected to be the biggest ever inter-schools show jumping league to get underway next week.

The 2014/2015 inter-schools league is has been given a huge boost by a new sponsorship deal with Thoroughbred Remedies Ireland Ltd (TRI) and backing from Craigavon Borough Council.

The Meadows EC host Aaron McCusker said that having TRI come on board as title sponsor meant that prize-winning competitors would be treated to some superb prizes they could select themselves at the brand new TRI store which is soon to open on-site at The Meadows.

The first inter-schools competition will be held next Saturday, September 27th, with both primary and secondary schools invited to take part.

“Last year schools from all across Ireland travelled to take part, from Donegal to Enniskillen and this year will be no different,” said McCusker. “The inter-schools league will run from September to January, culminating in the grand final on January 10th, 2015. The competition consists of primary, novice and open team and individual events, allowing riders of all ages to represent their school.”

Next saturday’s show will commence with the novice team class, followed by the novice individuals (max 85cm), as well as the open team and individual events (max 1m). There will also be a new Premiere Individual class (max 1.10m). Prizes on the day for all classes will be sponsored by TRI but there will also be spot prizes sponsored by Baileys Horse Feeds. Online entries for the first show will close at 5pm on Wednesday, September 24th on themec.co.uk. Contact Aaron on 07711 815267 for more details.