I think I'm going through charming accent withdrawal. Luckily for me (and you!) we captured some on video! First up, we have Fionnan Nestor of Failte Ireland giving tips on booking an equestrian trip to Ireland. If you're thinking of visiting (do it!), this is chock-full of useful info on things to consider when booking a trip, resources available online, etc. And there's some great b-roll...
I posted a few photos yesterday while sitting at the airport ( see those ), but here's the real report. The Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show has been going on for 106 years. Show director Peter Hanly told us the show began as a way to support country's horse breeders and producers. The competitions, from working hunters to Connemaras and colo(u)red cobs, to mares and foals, highlight the quality...
I often describe horse shows as my "natural habitat." But while I've had the pleasure of attending a diverse array of equine events, including the Kentucky Derby, Breeders' Cup, Rolex, and the Olympics, nothing compares with the beauty of the Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show . It's the most photogenic horse event I've seen, and I hope you'll agree. As I'm posting this...
Turf racing, while not the main focus at American Thoroughbred tracks, is the marquee event at many Irish racecourses. Neither of the courses we visited (The Curragh and Leopardstown) even offered a dirt oval! My Irish heritage probably shows when I say I prefer turf racing as well. The structure of turf horses, with their solid build, heavy bone, and big strides, appeals to my own personal equine...
After bidding a fond farewell to Mount Juliet--I'm coming back--we headed to Co Wicklow for a second trekking adventure with Glendalough Equestrian Center . The route took us to the Wicklow Mountains , a breathtaking rugged landscape of exposed stone, rivers, and the odd sheep wandering about. We also saw the area where the Christian Bale/Matthew McConaughey movie " Reign of Fire " was...
