World-wide horse trials complete a busy season

THE wagon wheels rolled into Millstreet again for the hugely successful Millstreet International Horse Trials, hosted by the multi-purpose Green Glens Complex and Drishane Castle.

Some of the best horses and riders in eventing circles descended on the North Cork location by ferry, truck and chopper.

Perfect weather and a brilliant atmosphere greeted the huge numbers that descended into the Duhallow venue from all over the world, with visitors drawn from the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Europe attending.

The ideal weather and the extensive facilities at Green Glens Complex and Drishane saw organiser Noel C Duggan accept the plaudits amongst the unrivalled panoramic views on a memorable staging.

“The picturesque setting against the backdrop of Clara Mountain and Drishane Castle was a perfect amphitheatre for cross country”, he said.

Competitors marvelled at one of the finest terrains and a course designed by Mike Etherington-Smith that entailed novel features over a diverse obstacle course that ranged from banks to impressive water features.

The latest staging follows a hectic schedule of events this summer, including the European Young Rider and Junior Eventing Championship and the subsequent annual Millstreet International Show and International three-day Trials.

A proud Noel C Duggan accepted the plaudits from the many different nationalities, meeting up with associates including life-long friend John D Neenan who had returned to a native heath from his adopted Bronx home in New York.

“I‘ve known Noel C since my school days, he held the vision to develop the Green Glens and Drishane to make them wonderful venues for European and World events,” said 82-yearold John D.

“Just like my late brother Willie, he came to Ballydaly for a wife, perhaps that’s the secret of his success.”

Looking ahead, the Owners Pony and Young Riders International Charity Show returns to the Green Glens International Complex over the October Bank Holiday weekend.