Minister Varadkar launches Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show

AT A reception yesterday, (Thursday) Mr Leo Varadkar, TD, Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport formally launched the 2013 Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show which takes place from Wednesday, August 7 to Sunday, August 11.

Commenting on the Show, Minister Varadkar said “The Dublin Horse Show is one of our most important events and a highlight of the sport and tourism year which regularly attracts around 100,000 visitors. Ireland is a horse-loving country, and the Horse Show allows us to promote our equestrian heritage on the world stage.

“Once again we can look forward to the nail-biting show jumping events, but the Horse Show also provides a huge economic boost to Dublin and beyond. As one of the many excellent events in Fáilte Ireland’s calendar of festivals and happenings, the Horse Show keeps vital jobs going in the tourism and hospitality sector.”

Michael Duffy, RDS Chief Executive commented: “We are delighted to celebrate this landmark 140th Show with a stronger and more vibrant programme of events. Our entries reflect the importance and continued relevance of the Show to the Irish horse industry and as a core Foundation Activity, the aim of the Show is to support the breeder and producer of Irish bred horses and provide a platform for them.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our sponsors, particularly our title sponsor, Fáilte Ireland, whose continued support is vital to the development of the Show. In the year of The Gathering, we look forward to welcoming visitors from all over Ireland and abroad for this marvellous equestrian and social event which is an integral part of the Irish sporting calendar.”

This year, the prize fund for the Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show is over €940,000. There are 125 classes and competitions in total, 80 Showing classes, 31 National Show Jumping classes and 14 International Show Jumping Competitions.

The international jumping competitions include the Furusiyya FEI Nations’ Cup™ presented by Longines competition for the Aga Khan Trophy on Friday, August 9, the Land Rover Puissance on Saturday, August 10 and the Longines International Grand Prix on Sunday, August 11.

For further information and online ticket booking, log on to the Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show website atwww.dublinhorseshow.com.