Former champion chasers at the discover ireland dublin horse show on saturday august 8

 

What a line-up - Imperial Commander, Arvika Ligeonniere, Sizing Europe, Forpadydeplasterer – all of them will be chasing the prize on offer on Saturday August 8 at the Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show in the Racehorse to Riding Horse class. Now in its sixth year, Irish thoroughbreds compete in this unique competition that Barry Geraghty will help judge and is kindly sponsored by Irish Thoroughbred Marketing.

 

Gold Cup winner Imperial Commander will once again be in the reckoning, will he regain the winning form he displayed back in 2010? But this Irish-bred Bay faces some stiff competition not least from the Henry de Bromhead trained Sizing Europe, though his €1.5m plus earnings will count for little in Ring 1 where judging is more than just being first past the post. French bred Arvika Ligeonniere will represent Carlow-based Willie Mullins’ yard and will hope to be in the chasing pack in the final stages, no doubt closely followed by the consistently popular Arkle winner Forpadydeplasterer. But might the winner come from unexpected quarters in form of Prince Erik? The Dermot Weld trained 11 year old proved his worth over both hurdles and the flat, so maybe this versatility will stand to him?

 

It’s still all to play for as we look further down the field, Ruby Walsh’s former mount TheMoonAndSixPence might fancy his chances, Time Travel will be going places, while punters shouldn’t forget about Cork-bred Glantara, point to point runner Why Not Batim or Gimli's Axe who is always sharp.

 

Bellewstown winner Blue Law won’t be just making up the numbers, Amstecos was once deemed the best horse out of Northern Ireland in twenty five years, while French Accordion will be hoping to squeeze in at the finish having done so successfully throughout his racing career. Snaefell, Rassi Maguire, Beau Michael and Heisacoolhand make up the rest of the field for what is sure to be an attractive offering for race-goer and equine enthusiast alike, especially with the opportunity for a bit of ‘Public Judging’ on offer.

 

Take the chance to measure your judgement against the best and take up your position in the RDS to watch as these great horses file by almost close enough to touch. With a coveted title up for grabs you can sure that they will all be putting on their best display.