THE battle for the Children on Horses title at this year’s Dublin Horse Show is shaping up to be one of the most competitive championships of the week, with 16 combinations qualifying through four highly competitive rounds at Mullingar, Barnadown, Maryville and Cavan.

The opening qualifier at Mullingar immediately highlighted the depth of talent in the division, with 29 combinations chasing just four coveted tickets to the RDS. Connaught rider Edward Walsh stamped his authority on the series, guiding Diamante to the fastest of the triple clears in 37.27 seconds to head the qualifiers. Charlotte Foley and Cillbhrid Excel also looked impressive as they secured second in 37.89, while Colm Widger and Jerenice Dysenbeeck Z booked their place with a polished round in 39.61. Blathnaid Murphy and Godiva Quality completed the qualifying quartet.