Emer Bermingham

AS a consequence of Thomastown Grand Prix starting at the later time of 4.30pm last Sunday, the show will lose its €500 contribution towards the prize fund from Showjumping Ireland.

In a new move by the Showjumping Association, shows that fail to start 30 minutes either side of the official time of three o’clock will lose the SJI contribution.

In the case of a Grand Prix, the show will suffer the loss of €500. However, in the case of a Premier Series, they will lose out a whopping €4,000.

Shows were informed about the new SJI rule in February. Robert Wallace of SJI said: “These Grands Prix are the pinnacle of national show jumping and it’s important for owners, spectators and sponsors that they run on time.”

In the case of Thomastown, secretary of the show Fionnuala Taylor said: “We were on site and arenas opened and ready to go at 9am but we did not get a rider into the ring until 10.15am.

“It’s a shame that we have lost this contribution as this show is run by volunteers who have given up their time.”