CIAN O’Connor’s Karlswood has been announced as the sponsor of the two Junior Equitation classes at the 2023 Dublin Horse Show and the winners will receive a training bursary with the Olympic medal winner.

The Junior Equitation classes will take place on Sunday, August 13th, in the Simmonscourt ‘Granville Nugent’ National Show Jumping Arena. Thirty-two pony and rider combinations (16 in each class) will qualify through four regional qualifiers which will run during the four Pony, Young Rider and Children on Horses qualifier weekends.

There is a competition for riders aged between 10 and 14 years old riding ponies under 138cm, and a competition for riders aged between 12 and 17 years old riding ponies between 138cm and 153cm. The top four pony and rider combinations in each class, at each of the four qualifiers, will be eligible to enter and compete at the Dublin Horse Show. The winner of each class at the show will receive a two-day training bursary at Karlswood.

The aim of the classes is to improve the standard of equitation among junior riders. The competitions will be judged, and the judges will focus on the rider’s overall position, balance, effectiveness, and influence on, and harmony with, their mount.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Cian O’Connor said: “The Junior Equitation classes provide an important platform for young riders to learn and demonstrate the basics of good equitation, which is so fundamental to the development and continuation of their future riding careers, be it at a professional, competitive or leisure level.”

O’Connor’s reputation as a coach is internationally recognised and he has 136 senior Nations Cup caps for Ireland. He is known for his rigorous planning, attention to detail, and for delivering on the big occasion, both in his own career and that of his students. His training is rooted in the basics of good equitation, and he instils an understanding and respect of these principles among his roster of talented and dedicated riders, who are known for their stylish technique in the saddle.

For the two successful young riders, the bursary will provide a unique opportunity to sample the Karlswood experience, and the approach that has garnered such international success for Cian and his students.

Pat Hanly, Dublin Horse Show Director, stated: “The RDS is delighted to form this partnership with Cian O’Connor and Karlswood. The Junior Equitation is an integral platform for the correct training and development of young riders. It is anticipated that Cian’s support will further bolster the interest and competition amongst our budding horsemen and women in these important foundation competitions.”