Ireland
is inextricably linked with its equine friend, the horse. The world famous Ballydoyle
stables in County Tipperary have produced some of the finest horseflesh ever
seen on a racecourse – Sir Ivor, Nijinsky, The Minstrel, Alleged, El Gran Senor
and the 2001 wonder horse, Galileo to name but a few.
As
mystical and fabled as the racehorse is held in Ireland, the historic association
with the thoroughbred has pragmatic roots. Unlike much of continental Europe,
which suffers the effects of industrial pollution and dense population, Ireland
remains relatively free of pollution and most of its lakes, rivers and streams
are clear, and the coastline pristine. The population too is small, and there
is never a feeling of overcrowding. The water naturally contains large amounts
of limestone, a vital ingredient in the formation of the healthy bones of a
young racehorse.
The
love affair with the horse does not exclusively revolve around the racehorse,
however. Ireland has vast amounts of open countryside with quiet country lanes,
gently sloping hills, and meandering streams for the amateur rider to ride through.
Ireland is also home to quiet, quaint little villages where the locals are full
of chat and always happy to help out. The traffic is light on many of these
country roads and a passing motorist can hear long before they are seen. There
are many different types of equestrian activities that may be pursued in Ireland
and they include: Free Riding (Trail Riding), Riding Lessons, Hunting and Horse
Racing. So, if a horse-riding excursion is your kind of holiday then there is
no finer place to take that holiday than in Ireland.
Equestrian
Hints
Equestrian
activities tend to be similar worldwide but here is a few useful tips to help
make you equestrian holiday in Ireland an enjoyable one.
Bring a disposable
camera - big heavy ones are really difficult to manage on the horse for
atmosphere shots
A well-fitting
hat is essential and can be supplied by the centre
A waterproof
coat and gloves are recommended
Back protectors
are compulsory for cross-country riding and can be hired at most centres
Boots and
jodhpurs are also advisable, but comfortable trousers or a tracksuit would
be fine. If you do not have boots, bring shoes with a slight heel
Ask the yard
manager for a neck strap if there isn't one on - it's called the Oh J strap
and can save you from losing your balance
It helps to
be fit before you arrive as it will enable you to maximise your enjoyment
of the holiday and be able to spend more time in the saddle
Safety tip:
always be truly honest to the centre about your standard of riding
Children will
find it helpful to have the reverse charge telephone number for phoning
home
Children could
enjoy other activities if they bring sports equipment, eg swimming togs,
tennis racquet, etc
As
mystical and fabled as the racehorse is held in Ireland, the historic association
with the thoroughbred has pragmatic roots. Unlike much of continental Europe,
which suffers the effects of industrial pollution and dense population, Ireland
remains relatively free of pollution and most of its lakes, rivers and streams
are clear, and the coastline pristine. The population too is small, and there
is never a feeling of overcrowding. The water naturally contains large amounts
of limestone, a vital ingredient in the formation of the healthy bones of a
young racehorse.