Kilguilkey House set for International Eventing debut

IRELAND’S top event horse riders are making their way to Co. Cork this weekend to compete at the inaugural Kilguilkey House International Horse Trials near Cecilstown, in Mallow, Co. Cork.
Since staging their first affiliated event only five years ago, organisers Danny and Michelle Dulohery have developed the site into a world-class equestrian venue with improved facilities for both equestrian competitor and spectator.

International cross-country course designer Eric Winter has come on board to design the CIC* and CIC** courses which make use of the farm’s natural features. Tommy Brennan, who played a major part in developing Kilguilkey as an eventing venue has been appointed as Event President while Christian Persson has travelled from Sweden to act as Technical Delegate. The ground has been carefully maintained and has a good cover of grass, which should make for perfect going at this weekend’s competition.

Amongst the declared competitors for the International classes are Irish Olympians Joseph Murphy, Michael and Patricia Ryan, as well as World Equestrian Games and European Championship rider Sam Watson. Following her success at CNC** level at Kilguilkey in April, Sarah Ennis (another member of the Irish squad) also returns to Kilguilkey.

Following their diversification from farming to equestrian enterprise, Kilguilkey House was recently awarded the IRD Duhallow Best Agri-Business Award. The venue has benefitted from LEADER funding through IRD Duhallow.

Dressage and show jumping take place on Saturday 6th July from 10am with the all-important Cross Country phase bringing the international action to a close on Sunday 7th July. Younger horses and riders are catered for with a range of National classes, which will take place on Sunday. Further information is available on www.eventingireland.com or www.kilguilkeyhouse.com.