Saintfield Horse Show officially launched

This years show will be held on Saturday August 16 at Tyrella House in Downpatrick.

Show Director Joan Cunningham welcomed everyone to the launch. She also thanked Down District Council, now a very major sponsor of the show. The Council was represented by their Chairman Councillor William Walker along with Councillor Robert Burgess and Councillor Terry Andrews.

The Lagan Group, who are also major sponsors, were represented by Michael Murray. Alastair McIlveen represented North Down Marquees, Richard Lyttle represented Downpatrick Race Course and Geraldine Waddell represented The Ulster Tatler.

International Dressage superstar Yvette Truesdale enjoyed the relaxed evening. Yvette will be doing two performances at the show on August 16 to music on her Grand Prix dressage horse Has To Be Fun. This is a very rare opportunity to see a rider of this calibre perform. The first performance is at 12.30pm and the second at 2.00pm in ring 1 which is situated directly in front of the North Down Marquee.

Following Yvette’s performance Delaney’s Musical Donkeys will take centre stage for the first time. This absolutely hilarious event is not to be missed. It’s open to everyone who wants to take part. You do not need to bring a donkey as all donkeys will be provided. The donkeys will be led not ridden. There will be some special spot prizes one for the most entertaining person taking part and one for the fanciest dressed person, although you do not necessarily need to dress up. All of the finalists taking part will receive a bottle of Powers Whiskey kindly sponsored by Dillon Bass. Entry fee is £20 and all proceeds from this event will be going to purchase a Bore Hole in Africa to provide the people with fresh drinking water for themselves and their stock.

Showjumping Arenas will be kept very busy with some exciting new classes taking place for Horses and Ponies. Working Hunter classes for horses and ponies with courses being designed by the very popular David McClurg. Ridden Hunters, Cob Classes, Happy Hackers, Bank of Ireland Ladies Equine Handling Class. Ulster Tatler Ladies Side Saddle, Downpatrick Race Course Race Horse to Riding Horse, Lots and lots of pony showing and in-hand classes, lead rein, family pony,etc. Miniature Horses, Novelty Dog Show, lure coursing and Fly Ball. For the children their will be amusements, Magic Roundabout and lots more. There will be a village of trade stands and stalls.

Admission to the show is £2.50 and children free. Car parking in the show field is free. The show opens at 9am-5pm. The full schedule can be downloaded from www.saintfieldhorseshow.com.