SUPPORTED by record entries, including riders from nine visiting nations, the Sema Lease Camphire International Horse Trials gets underway on Friday. Although just 10 weeks ago, the event’s immediate future had been in doubt, this ninth renewal has attracted a new title sponsor and, boosted by the inaugural HSI €10,000 two-star bonus for overseas riders, has drawn some of the most recognisable names in the sport.

Thanks largely to event owner, breeder and enthusiast Richard Ames of Sema Lease, together with a loyal band of established supporters, the picturesque Co Waterford venue will greet riders from America, Australia, France, Britain, Hong Kong, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway and South Africa.