THE Association of Irish Riding Clubs (AIRC) announced that Connolly’s Red Mills is to continue as title sponsors of three of its six national events this year including the Dressage, Hunter Trials and Show Jumping Championships.

The Goresbridge-based Animal Feed company is a fifth-generation family business and has been in operation for over 100 years and is one the Association’s main sponsors. It is the largest supplier of horse feed in the Irish market and its products are available in 80 countries worldwide.

In 2012, Connolly’s Red Mills acquired the supplement company Foran Equine and in 2021, added to their equine portfolio when taking over Carr & Day & Martin, further demonstrating their commitment to equine care, performance, and wellbeing.

Championships dates

The Hunter Trials Championships are due to take place on Sunday, April 24th at Annaharvey Farm in Offaly, the Show Jumping Championships return to Mullingar Equestrian on July 10th, while the Dressage Championships move to Barnadown Show Jumping on August 7th.

Jane Davis, head of equine marketing at Connolly’s Red Mills, said: “We are really looking forward to continuing our sponsorship of the three AIRC National Championships, beginning with the Hunter Trials in April. Together with our sister brands Foran Equine and Carr & Day & Martin, we strive to put your horse at the centre of everything we do. Our expert solutions are designed to nourish, support and care for your horse.

“We have had a great partnership with the AIRC over the years and enjoy the spirit and the energy the competitors bring to all the events. We’re looking forward to bringing our sponsorship to life this year with some new and exciting initiatives from our partners Foran Equine and Carr & Day & Martin.”

Great supporters

Tony Ennis, chair of the Association of Irish Riding Clubs, said: “Connolly’s Red Mills have been long-term supporters of ours and we are hugely thankful for their support since they first came on board back in 2007. Their support has been and continues to be invaluable to us in staging these championships annually.”

Meanwhile, the schedule, entry criteria and closing dates have been announced for the Hunter Trials championships at Annaharvey Farm near Tullamore, Co Offaly next month.

Online entries open on Saturday, April 9th and close at 12 noon on Thursday, April 14th. Full details are available on www.airc.ie.