Fáilte takes the reins for best Ireland promo ever
FÁILTE IRELAND, the new title sponsors of the five-day Dublin Horse Show, which begins at the RDS tomorrow, is availing of the opportunity to boost the country as a quality location for equestrian tourists, The show will again celebrate Ireland’s equestrian tradition and the special respect and love that the Irish have for horses.
It is a tradition that stretches from the distant and legendary past of folklore and myth to the present day of world-class racing and jumping contests where Irish-bred, owned and trained horses and their riders enjoy the highest reputation for excellence.
All sectors of the multi-million euro Irish horse industry make a huge contribution to the
country’s economic well being, as well as providing endless hours of pleasure and enjoyment But now an increased effort is being made to further tap the tourism potential of the sport horse sector, which covers all equestrian activities with the exception of horse racing, to attract more visitors to Ireland.
And what better way to do it than through the prestigious Dublin Show.
Fáilte Ireland, with funding from the Government-established International Sports Tourism Initiative, has taken over as title sponsor for the show, which is expected to attract 100,000 people to the forty-two acre Ballsbridge venue this week.
The show, now celebrating its 132nd year, is an ideal platform to project a positive image of Ireland, especially as it is part of the high interest Samsung Super League with top riders and horses taking part.
RTÉ’s coverage of the Nations Cup Aga Khan Trophy will be shown on television worldwide, providing Fáilte Ireland with a marvellous opportunity to showcase the country as a holiday destination.
Arts, Sports and Tourism Minister John O’Donoghue said: “This is a growing area of Irish tourism, with more than 28,000 equestrian visitors in 2003 generating revenue of some €27.3 million,” he said.
“There are programmes at fully-equipped modern riding centres for all ages and abilities from show-jumping, cross-country and dressage to hacking and trail-riding through most magnificent mountain, coastal and forest scenery.
“Add to that, of course, the many thrilling race meetings and festivals in all parts of the country,” he said.
The show, which will cost €2.5 million to stage, is Ireland’s largest equestrian festival with a record prize fund this year of €600,000.
It comes sixth in the annual sequence of eight shows in the Super League with the four best rider/horse combinations from eight countries battling it out.
It is also a special occasion for breeders, riders and horses of all classes. Last year more than 1,400 horses and ponies competed in 127 competitions and classes for 52 cups and trophies. The showing classes with entries from farmers, who maintain the tradition of keeping a brood mare at home, and other owners and breeders from around the country, has a special appeal with the prospect of attracting the attention of potential buyers on the lookout for quality young stock.
RDS chief executive Michael Duffy said the show “continues to fulfil its charter in offering Irish breeders and producers a place to benchmark their stock against others and by aiding breeders in determining the progress they are making with their breeding enterprises.”
The entire Irish horse industry, covering all disciplines, plays a significant role in the national economy and in the welfare of many local communities through the employment that it provides.
Little wonder then that the Government should proclaim to the world during its EU presidency last year that an interest and sometimes obsession with horses has long been shared by all classes of Irish society.
“We have horse fairs, riding schools, racing and showjumping champions, and you can sometimes see working horses still on the streets of our towns and cities.
“The country’s limestone-rich pastures provide the nutrients that are essential for strengthening young horses’ bones. The temperate climate provides an ideal environment for weaning and raising thoroughbred horses.
“Genetic improvements have seen the native Irish Draught gradually evolve into an animal with versatility far beyond what its name implies.
“It became a superb riding and sporting horse, has been crossed with the thoroughbred to produce the famous Irish charger of warfare, and eventually the world renowned Irish sport horse for showjumping and other disciplines.”
Fáilte Ireland could not wish for a better promo for the efforts it is making to encourage more people to come here on equestrian holidays.
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