The excitement is palpable as the 149th Dublin Horse Show kicks off at the iconic RDS Showgrounds in the heart of Dublin! We’re thrilled that our Grassroots Gazette team is on the ground, ready to capture every thrilling moment of this legendary event. It is hot, the weather is beautiful, the crowd is building and the atmosphere is electric.

Over the next five days, we’ll be here bringing you exclusive interviews and content that shine a spotlight on the grassroots equestrian community. Leading the charge is Shane, who, alongside the talented Sonya McAleer from Inner Balance, will be connecting with riders, exhibitors, and fans alike. Gary, Carly and Chrissy will be here across the week too with some of the original OGs back from when we first launched doing some interviews too across the week. Get ready for an incredible week filled with passion, competition, and celebration of all things equestrian.

This year’s Dublin Horse Show is set to be a spectacle like no other, with over 120,000 visitors expected to walk through the gates. It’s not just about the numbers, though—this event is steeped in nearly 150 years of history and represents the pinnacle of Irish equestrianism. More than 160 classes and competitions will see riders, horses, and ponies competing at the highest level. From showing classes and performance events to the adrenaline-pumping show jumping competitions, the action will be non-stop.

One of the major highlights of this year’s event is the Rolex Grand Prix, set to take place on Sunday, August 18. This prestigious competition, a key fixture in the global equestrian calendar, will see the world’s top show jumpers, including Henrik Von Eckermann, Ben Maher, and Mclain Ward, vying for victory on one of the most challenging and historic grass tracks. With a prize of €500,000 up for grabs, the stakes couldn’t be higher!

But of course, the biggest crowd of the week will most likely be this Friday and we are buzzing anticipation as competition will get underway in for the Aga Khan Trophy in The Underwriting Exchange Nations Cup of Ireland this Friday. The Irish team, comprising Daniel Coyle, Darragh Kenny, Denis Lynch, Mark McAuley, and Cian O’Connor, reflects Ireland’s stellar form this season, highlighted by podium finishes and victories in Aachen and Ocala. With the final four riders to be announced soon, Ireland aims to reclaim the Aga Khan Trophy, last secured in 2022, and continue their remarkable run in 2024.

But it’s not just the elite athletes who make the Dublin Horse Show special. The event is a true celebration of the grassroots community, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of riders and horse lovers from all walks of life. Over 350 exhibition stands will provide a treasure trove of experiences, from the latest in equestrian gear to unique artisan crafts. The show is also committed to making a difference beyond the arena, with initiatives like Positive Strides, which highlights the transformative power of equine-assisted therapy, taking center stage on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

We can’t wait to meet and interview the grassroots equestrians who make this event so special. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a passionate fan, or just here to soak up the atmosphere, the Grassroots Gazette team is excited to connect with you. So, keep an eye out for us as we bring you the stories and moments that make the Dublin Horse Show an event to remember. Let’s make this week unforgettable!