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Horse Sport Ireland cautiously revising its boundaries

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Horse Sport Ireland and Showjumping Ireland are delighted to announce that as part of the resumption of equestrian activities that had been postponed due to the Covid-19 crisis, the 2020 Horse Sport Ireland Premier Series, and Irish Sport Horse Studbook Series, will resume across Ireland starting from the week beginning June 29.

It is hoped that full dates for the competitions, which will take place behind closed doors as per Government guidelines, will be confirmed next week.

Alison Corbally, Director of Breeding and Programmes at Horse Sport Ireland said: “We are delighted that following very positive and detailed discussions with Showjumping Ireland, we are able to provide this much needed boost to owners, breeders, competitors and show organisers, and confirm that the HSI Premier Series and ISH Studbook Series will go ahead this year. The past few months have been extremely difficult for everyone involved in the Irish Sport Horse industry and we are determined to make the most out of the time we have remaining in this season. While we are all excited to see light at the end of the tunnel, we of course must remain focused on the fact that public health remains the number one priority and we must all play our part in ensuring that our sport takes place in a safe and responsible manner.”

Eamonn Rice, Chairperson of Showjumping Ireland added: “This announcement is a lifeline for our industry during what has been a very difficult time. It gives our national-based riders and owners an opportunity to showcase their young and Grand Prix competition horses at top shows in Ireland. It is imperative that our industry has the best shows that are available to them here in Ireland and I would like to thank Horse Sport Ireland for their sponsorship of our Premier Series this year and their continued support of our Young Horse classes.”

Following the Equestrian Sport Ready submission by Horse Sport Ireland to Government and Sport Ireland in April, Equestrian Sport was included among the list of sports permitted to resume in Phase 1 of the Government Roadmap on May 18th. Detailed procedures and protocols have been formulated in conjunction with affiliates including Showjumping Ireland, to ensure that equestrian sport can take place while adhering to all social distancing, public health and return to work requirements.

The Irish Government announced today (Friday) that from this Monday June 8, travel is permitted throughout residents' own counties, and up to 20kms from home into neighbouring counties. The Government have also announced that all travel restrictions across the Republic of Ireland will be lifted on June 29.