Horsing around in Ireland

The Emerald Isle’s connection with horses is legendary. From trekking ponies to Derby winners, the Irish really know their stuff when it comes to all things equestrian. Whether your interests lie in racing, dressage, show jumping, hunting or eventing, you’ll almost certainly find a bunch of fellow enthusiasts ensconced in Ireland.

View Irish equestrian specialists >>Breeding excellenceIreland is famous for the number and star status of its stud farms and this year has been particularly successful for Coolmore Stud in Co Tipperary. Stallions such as Giant’s Causeway continue to challenge the champion status of Sadler’s Wells. So too does Montjeu, with his Derby one-two this season.However, success is in no way limited to Coolmore. Some of the world’s most successful studs are located in Ireland. For anyone wanting a peek behind the scenes, the Irish National Stud, Co Kildare, is open to visitors all summer, seven days a week, between 9.30am-6.00pm. Visit: www.irish-national-stud.ieBuy an Irish starWhether you are looking for a sport horse, cob or pony, Ireland is widely regarded as being THE place to buy unspoilt young horses, both privately, through dealers and Irish sale rings, without breaking the budget.Royal Dublin remains the ultimate showcase for the best Irish horses and ponies, including many which are for sale. Irish show jumpers are in great demand in Britain, as are Connemara’s for the show ring, and Irish cobs and hunters for both the show ring and the hunting field. Irish horses are renowned for being tough and reliable mounts with good ability.

View horse currently for sale in Ireland >>Holiday heavenWhether you want a winter hunting break, a mountain and moorland trail riding week, or intensive cross-country training, riding holidays of every type can be found in Ireland. Many holiday Irish establishments offer quality horses, top class tutition, a friendly atmosphere, home cooking and, most importantly, a lot of fun. Visit: www.tourismireland.comH&H heads for DublinShow jumper Billy Twomey will be joining the Horse & Hound team at the 132nd Royal Dublin Horse Show (3-7 August) to sign autographs and meet readers.H&H will be at stand 59, offering one-off “show deals” of 20% off subscriptions to H&H and our sister magazines, HORSE and Eventing. New subscribers to H&H will not only receive £26 (€37) off the usual yearly rate of £110 (€158) but also a stylish green Horse & Hound fleece.Members of H&H’s classified advertising team will be on hand to offer Irish readers advice on advertising in the magazine.Be sure to visit the H&H stand early for a chance to win masses of competition prizes, including a Rambo Duo rug and a combination jacket from Horseware, a travel treatment rug from Mirotec, plus an “instant win” tombola with hundreds of prizes.Due to his competition schedule, Billy cannot verify signing times before the beginning of the show, but readers are invited to drop in at the stand for more information.This is the first time H&H has travelled to Dublin, despite regularly touring the show circuit in England, Scotland and Wales to offer readers great discounts.

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