Feedback to our column of recent weeks about international show jumping led to thoughts on some of the difficulties faced by Irish riders.
In particular, we noted the expense of travelling to international shows and lack of funding in the national circuit as two major issues.
With regard to the lady riders we have already noted in this column that it is much more difficult for female riders to get jobs in places such as the US than it is for men.
Hence lady riders are much more dependent on the home circuit in order to progress.
In terms of international travel, here are some facts. J
ust about every weekend there is a show either in Europe or the USA with a Grand Prix worth some €50,000 to €100,000 to the winner.
A two show trip to the continent would cost an Irish rider anywhere from €8,000 to €10,000. Hence their decision to base abroad.
It is just a fact of life that our top riders will continue to hone their talent on the home circuit and then move away like many before them.
In addition to all of that the average price of a show jumper that can compete on this top circuit is now close on €2m.
So, in the absence of some home support their climb to the top has to be subsidised by rich foreign owners.
Home circuit
With implementation of the Indecon Report already under way, the home circuit is in the throes of transition.
If more funding is the result then it should be used very wisely for the benefit of breeders, competitors and the centres that provide the opportunity for year-round competition.
Both prize money and facilities are in need of a huge boost.
Some of the old standard shows are disappearing while new centres with permanent arenas are more the norm.
These need ongoing performance based grants to help make them more user-friendly for horses, visitors, owners, sponsors and competitors alike.
It is my opinion that Jim Beecher’s suggestion of a €100,000 show just about every weekend must be acted upon.
These events should provide for good pony classes, HSI young horse and RDS qualifiers in addition to good amateur events for which there is a great demand.
But at their core there has to be a well-funded Grand Prix that is worth keeping a horse for.
This home circuit is the nursery not only of our riders but of our Irish bred horses and ponies.
Since we are still a selling nation, this circuit has to be both our training ground and our shop window.
It needs to be wisely supported and demands both solid funding and good leadership.
Let’s hope we get both from the current restructuring of Horse Sport Ireland.
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