Irish youngsters compete for training with Jessica Kurten

Ireland’s Holmestead Saddlery has created a new competition for young riders offering a two-week all-expenses paid trip to train with Jessica Kurten.

The competition — named the Holmestead Young Rider of the Year — will run over qualifiers, warm-up and finals for the Royal Dublin Show (RDS). Points will be awarded to young riders (aged 14-21) competing in 110cm, 120 cm and 130cm classes on a handicap basis.

The eventual winner will take their own horse to Jessica’s state-of-the-art yard in Germany for two weeks. They will get training and advice from Jessica and her team, and all expenses will be paid.

“We wanted to make it more interesting for the young riders and to give everyone a chance to win,” said Bill Holmes, owner of Holmstead Saddlery. “We want to encourage more young people in sport.”

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