The 2009 Tattersall’s Ireland/Ward Union Hunt Show is a definite date for all equestrian followers. The show which boasts a full line-up of showing and show jumping classes, takes place on Friday 24th, Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th July.

This Meath show has always attracted the crème of the showing world as it plays host for a series of important qualifiers. Traditionally Tattersalls has been a qualifier for the National Hunter Supreme Championships (NHSCS) which is held on 8th & 9th September at Addington Manor Equestrian Centre in Buckinghamshire. The show is also a qualifier for the Horse of the year show (HOYS) which is held from 7th to 11th October 2009 in the NEC in Birmingham.

Showing Classes include Ridden Hunters, Riding Horses, Cobs, Ladies Hunters, Small Hunters, Coloured Horses, Amateurs, Thoroughbred Ridden Show Horses, Working Hunter and Led Horses.

In the Showjumping section, this year's Show will be part of the 2009 Premier Grand Prix Series and has maintained the grade of a 2-Star International level. Classes will include three International Classes on Friday 24th, three International Classes on Saturday 25th including a Speed Derby, two International Classes on Sunday 26th and also the International Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon.

Speaking in regards the event, committee member and International Course Designer Tom Holden said:
“There is a great selection of competitions for all sections of the equestrian community. In the showjumping arena, we have developed a full programme of competitions. On Saturday we run the Speed Derby, this class is open to all. On the final day we host a round of the SJI Premier Series. Also taking place is a full range of National Classes including the Irish Horse Board Young Horse Series for five, six and seven year old horses.

“The whole show produces a great atmosphere; we have a host of trade stands, the local radio station and other side shows. This year we are also offering a raffle prize for a night in the famous Dunboyne Castle”.

This year, Tattersall’s are also hosting the Future Event Horse League Qualifier (FEHL) which is scheduled to take place on Friday 24th. The exciting and nail biting Inter Hunt Team Chase will take place on Sunday 26th, which is always a real crowd pleaser.

In these recessionary times, it is becoming increasingly difficult to run an International show. This year we welcome our new Grand Prix sponsor, Jem Developments and we are grateful to see our loyal sponsors, the Ward Union Hunt Club on board once again. Our other sponsors include Horse & Rider Store, Pegus Horse Feeds, Creevagh House Stud, Equestrian Life.ie, Arena Products, Ireland’s Horse & Pony and Ivor Young.