TRADITIONALLY marking the start of the home international event season, the popular spring fixture at Ballindenisk is due to begin on Thursday. Once again, and despite current logistical difficulties, the event has attracted riders from nine countries, with the individual deputation from Great Britain numbering well over 20 alone. Other nations represented include contingents from France, Italy, Hong Kong and New Zealand, while adding to this competitive mix is a powerful entry from Ireland. Olympians Caroline Powell (New Zealand), Vittoria Panizzon (Italy) and Giovanni Ugolotti (Italy) are all travelling with a quantity of horses, as are top Irish internationals Ian Cassells, Sarah Ennis, Joseph Murphy and Sam Watson.