The countdown is on to the social and sporting event of the year which combines family fun, fashion and fabulous prizes …
For both equestrian and fashion lovers, the countdown has officially started to the sporting and social event of the year. The 2024 RDS Dublin Horse Show takes place from August 14-18 and this year has an exciting line-up of events and some new sponsors.
Speaking at the official launch of the event, held in the renovated Church of St Mary’s, Dublin 4, RDS CEO Liam Kavanagh told guests: “This year we are delighted to welcome Rolex as a key partner. This signals a very exciting phase for the RDS and underpins the importance of the show on the international showjumping calendar.”
With 166 competitions held over the five days, there is a total prize fund of €1,450,000 making it one of the biggest in Europe for the sport. Key events include the Rolex Grand Prix of Ireland on Sunday August 18 with a prize fund of €500,000, and the Nations Cup of Ireland (known as The Aga Khan Trophy), one of the most prestigious competitions in international showjumping (Friday August 16) with a prize fund of €250,000.
The Defender Puissance is always a crowd favourite, and takes place on Saturday evening, August 17, when it will officially celebrate its 20th anniversary. The red and white wall starts at a height of 1.80m which steadily climbs for each round until it reaches 2.20m. Each competing horse must clear the Defender Puissance wall leading to a knock-out (nail-biting) finish. Do make sure you visit the Family Area, where young adventurers can enjoy a fun driving experience navigating a bespoke source in Mini Defenders on each day of the show.
Of course, the RDS Dublin Horse Show is more than top notch equestrian competitions. It’s a major social occasion, with lively bars, great food, shopping (do check out Magee 1866) and style. Central to its appeal is the annual Best Dressed Competition, which takes place on Thursday August 15 on the Band Lawn of the RDS. This year the competition will be judged by fashion journalist Bairbre Power and stylist Clémentine MacNeice (pictured). TV and radio presenter Laura Woods will welcome entrants to the stage, while this year’s sponsor is 1664 Blanc, with many enticing prizes on offer. The overall winner will receive a €10,000 cash prize, while the runner-up will win a two-night stay at the Morrison Dublin, and a further two-night stay at the Aleph Rome Hotel plus a €100 airline voucher.
As for tips on what to wear, the judges have given some clues. “Be comfortable, bring confidence and add a point of difference to your look. Most of all, wear clothes that you really enjoy wearing, and that don’t wear you,” advises Bairbre Power.
“I’m looking forward to seeing vibrant splashes of colour, both through the outfits and accessories. Accessories are key; we will be looking for those finer details that bring the overall look together, it’s all in the details!” says Clémentine MacNeice.
Always popular is the Most Creative Hat category, sponsored by Dublin restaurant Pichet; the winner will receive a €1,000 voucher for Pichet, which can be used in all eight venues of the Mercantile Group. There’s also a “Tressed to Impress” for the best hairstyle, sponsored by Peter Mark – the winner will take home hair care goodies to the value of €1,000.
An important difference to note this year: organisers are asking entrants to the Best Dressed Competition to pre-register online. A €400 Charlotte Tilbury hamper is up for grabs for one lucky online entry!
Other notable activities include the Irish charity Festina Lente which will be providing practical demonstrations and panel discussions underpinning how beneficial equine therapy is for horse and rider. Occupational therapist Audrey Darby will share her insights on the power of equine therapy. At the Horse Show, an accredited list of equine therapists will be launched, adding validity to this area of expertise.
The city, especially the environs of Dublin 4, is buzzing during the event. Roly’s Bistro is a favourite spot for supper (book well in advance), while the ICE Bar at InterContinental Dublin is great for people watching, especially seeing international riders and their teams. Don’t forget the hotel hosts its own Best Dressed competition on the evening of Ladies Day. Its “Continentally Classic” competition for men and women is an opportunity to show off your fashion credentials “with a continental twist” before raising a glass on the Garden Terrace to another fabulous social event.
For further details visit www.dublinhorseshow.com and for tickets visit www.ticketmaster.ie.