As one of only four annual international eventing fixtures in Ireland, excitement is mounting as fans and riders alike prepare to enjoy the 10th edition of the Millstreet International Horse Trials next week, running from 28 May-1 June.
Thankfully, the run-up to the popular event has been blessed with sunshine for all of the intricate course preparations this year. The Green Glens Arena, with its expansive facilities and scenic surroundings, offers an ideal setting for the trials. The adjacent Drishane Castle grounds provide a challenging and visually stunning cross-country course, designed to test the agility and endurance of horse and rider alike. The venue’s rich history and commitment to equestrian sports makes it a favourite among competitors and spectators.
CCI4*S Nations Cup Team Winner: Ireland - Ian Cassells, Patrick Whelan, Jennifer Kuehnle, Robbie Kearns pictured with Chef d'Equipe Dag Albert. \ Tadhg Ryan/ Bit-Media
Admittedly, it’ll be hard to beat last year’s celebrations which followed a crucial victory for Ireland in the competitive 2024 FEI Nations Cup leg and also Sam Watson’s impressive in the CCI4*-L with Ballyneety Rocketman. Both wins were a huge boost to Irish eventing in the run up to the Paris Olympics.
The stellar line-up of Irish riders for the 2025 edition however, is a thrilling one. Fresh from his third-place Burghley glory with the peoples’ horse, the powerful grey Colorado Blue, Austin O’Connor will be joined by Irish super talents Padriag McCarthy, Aoife Clark, Cathal Daniels, Jennifer Kuehnlen, Sam Watson and Sarah Ennis.
This event with its exceptional track has become a cornerstone in the international eventing calendar, attracting top-tier competitors and equestrian enthusiasts from around the globe. Over the four days spectators can look forward to some of the best riders in the world, many of whom we saw at the recent Burghley Horse trials, including four Olympic competitors including multiple gold medallist Laura Collett.
Since its inception in 2015, Millstreet International Horse Trials has grown in prestige and popularity. Organised by the Duggan family, the event seamlessly blends world-class competition with generous Irish hospitality. The 2025 edition marks a significant milestone, celebrating a decade of equestrian excellence and community engagement.
“As ever, we have been working hard over the winter to prepare for this year’s competitions, in which we know we will be watching the world’s best riders,” said event director and host Thomas Duggan. “We are looking forward to welcoming back the international eventing community and to another great weekend of sport and fun.”
With riders from across 15 countries, the event will feature a range of classes, including the CCI4*-L, CCI3*-L, and CCI2*-L, providing opportunities for both seasoned professionals and emerging talents to showcase their skills.
Jennifer Kuehnle (IRL) and Sammy Davis Junior in the dressage phase of the CCIO4*-NC-S - Connollys RED MILLS at Millstreet International Horse Trials 2024. \ Tadhg Ryan / Bit-Media
Notably, there will be two Burghley qualifiers and also the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse Series which will take place on Thursday, 29 May, spotlighting promising four and five year old horses poised to become the sport’s future stars.
Featuring a new start and finish and plenty of new jumps, this year’s challenging course designed by Mike Etherington-Smith has seen entries for 2025 among the highest since the prestigious competition’s inception.
Beyond the competition, the Millstreet International Horse Trials are a celebration of community and culture. Attendees can enjoy a variety of local food vendors, artisan stalls, and family-friendly activities, ensuring a memorable experience for all. The event’s inclusive atmosphere reflects the warmth and hospitality for which Ireland is renowned.
As anticipation builds for what promises to be a thrilling and historic edition of the Millstreet International Horse Trials, a few ones to watch include Sian Coleman and Carrowgare J’Aime Max and Sam Watson on Ballybolger Goldman, Sarah Ennis and Dourough Ferro Class Act and Max Warbuton on first-timer Coburg.
See millstreet.horse
As one of only four annual international eventing fixtures in Ireland, excitement is mounting as fans and riders alike prepare to enjoy the 10th edition of the Millstreet International Horse Trials next week, running from 28 May-1 June.
Thankfully, the run-up to the popular event has been blessed with sunshine for all of the intricate course preparations this year. The Green Glens Arena, with its expansive facilities and scenic surroundings, offers an ideal setting for the trials. The adjacent Drishane Castle grounds provide a challenging and visually stunning cross-country course, designed to test the agility and endurance of horse and rider alike. The venue’s rich history and commitment to equestrian sports makes it a favourite among competitors and spectators.
CCI4*S Nations Cup Team Winner: Ireland - Ian Cassells, Patrick Whelan, Jennifer Kuehnle, Robbie Kearns pictured with Chef d'Equipe Dag Albert. \ Tadhg Ryan/ Bit-Media
Admittedly, it’ll be hard to beat last year’s celebrations which followed a crucial victory for Ireland in the competitive 2024 FEI Nations Cup leg and also Sam Watson’s impressive in the CCI4*-L with Ballyneety Rocketman. Both wins were a huge boost to Irish eventing in the run up to the Paris Olympics.
The stellar line-up of Irish riders for the 2025 edition however, is a thrilling one. Fresh from his third-place Burghley glory with the peoples’ horse, the powerful grey Colorado Blue, Austin O’Connor will be joined by Irish super talents Padriag McCarthy, Aoife Clark, Cathal Daniels, Jennifer Kuehnlen, Sam Watson and Sarah Ennis.
This event with its exceptional track has become a cornerstone in the international eventing calendar, attracting top-tier competitors and equestrian enthusiasts from around the globe. Over the four days spectators can look forward to some of the best riders in the world, many of whom we saw at the recent Burghley Horse trials, including four Olympic competitors including multiple gold medallist Laura Collett.
Since its inception in 2015, Millstreet International Horse Trials has grown in prestige and popularity. Organised by the Duggan family, the event seamlessly blends world-class competition with generous Irish hospitality. The 2025 edition marks a significant milestone, celebrating a decade of equestrian excellence and community engagement.
“As ever, we have been working hard over the winter to prepare for this year’s competitions, in which we know we will be watching the world’s best riders,” said event director and host Thomas Duggan. “We are looking forward to welcoming back the international eventing community and to another great weekend of sport and fun.”
With riders from across 15 countries, the event will feature a range of classes, including the CCI4*-L, CCI3*-L, and CCI2*-L, providing opportunities for both seasoned professionals and emerging talents to showcase their skills.
Jennifer Kuehnle (IRL) and Sammy Davis Junior in the dressage phase of the CCIO4*-NC-S - Connollys RED MILLS at Millstreet International Horse Trials 2024. \ Tadhg Ryan / Bit-Media
Notably, there will be two Burghley qualifiers and also the Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse Series which will take place on Thursday, 29 May, spotlighting promising four and five year old horses poised to become the sport’s future stars.
Featuring a new start and finish and plenty of new jumps, this year’s challenging course designed by Mike Etherington-Smith has seen entries for 2025 among the highest since the prestigious competition’s inception.
Beyond the competition, the Millstreet International Horse Trials are a celebration of community and culture. Attendees can enjoy a variety of local food vendors, artisan stalls, and family-friendly activities, ensuring a memorable experience for all. The event’s inclusive atmosphere reflects the warmth and hospitality for which Ireland is renowned.
As anticipation builds for what promises to be a thrilling and historic edition of the Millstreet International Horse Trials, a few ones to watch include Sian Coleman and Carrowgare J’Aime Max and Sam Watson on Ballybolger Goldman, Sarah Ennis and Dourough Ferro Class Act and Max Warbuton on first-timer Coburg.
See millstreet.horse
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