WATCH: Tattersalls International Horse Trials & Country Fair looks stunning from the air

JIMMY GEOGHEGAN
Tattersalls International Horse Trials and Country Fair is underway and continues until Sunday and if you need something to entertain the whole family this Bank Holiday weekend - get yourself to Ratoath.
Located opposite the home of the Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse, Tattersalls has built up a world-wide reputation in the equine world.

Some visitors who call to the beautiful Meath venue for this unique occasion will be seasoned experts when it comes to horses, others will be there as curious onlookers, no doubt beguiled by the talent of these magnificent animals and their riders as they seek to overcome the challenges put in their way on the road to glory. Here's a helping guide to understanding the equine extravaganza.

 

So what do the horse trials involve?
Those taking part in the trials will participate in dressage, cross-country and show jumping competitions with each discipline demanding it's own particular skills. Any victory achieved in any of the categories will only be brought about because of the ability of the horse and the horsemanship of the rider. It's a double act of craft and skill that can be at times breathtaking. A glance from Lady Luck is also welcomed.

How do competitors win the dressage?
This discipline demands a great deal of skill with the horse (weighting in at around 550 to 600 kg) and the rider performing a series of lithe, subtle movements and changes of pace like a ballet dancer performing Swan Lake. Well, almost.
To make it all the more daunting the dressage exercises are performed in front of three Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) qualified judges. Any slip is noticed as is the flourishes of skill that can make all the difference. The way the scoring system works the lower the score, the better - just like golf. And as any golfer knows the pain, the challenge, is in getting that score, down - and keeping it there.

What are marks awarded for?
Dressage is about control of the horse at all times; it's about the craft and control, obedience, and the horse's responsiveness combined with the technique of the rider. The skills needed for dressage forms the basic training of any horse. Dressage may not have the thrills and spills found in a Munster hurling final, for example, but never underestimate the skill, the dedication, the poise and precision involved from all concerned.

What about Cross Country?
Again a demanding test of horse and riders; a test of speed, fitness, preparation - and that most essential quality for anybody who seeks to be successful in equine sports - courage. As far as the rider is concerned he/she must be adept at judging pace and speed and fully aware of what their horse is capable of doing.

Why is show jumping so demanding of rider and horse?
Show jumping is the last section in eventing and horses are only allowed to take part in this competition after they have been deemed fit enough following the exertions of the trials and the dressage. Again energy, talent and stamina are required from both horse and rider to keep the number of penalty points down to a minimum. It's a lot easier said than done. The nature of the competition can lead to nail-biting conclusions and it's in such high-pressure situations the 'right stuff' must be displayed from horse and rider, if ultimate victory is to achieved. Mistakes and those dreaded four faults for a fence knocked down must also be avoided. Plenty of drama promised - and never discount the C-word - courage.

What about the Country Fair side of things?
Those who break away from watching horses and riders face up to the challenges presented to them in the trials have the Tattersalls Country Fair to explore. There they will find a veritable village of marquees displaying a cornucopia of goods offering items from clothes to bespoke furniture.
Then there's the 'Artisan Marquee,' there's the 'Kid Zone' and the 'Connolly's Red Mills Arena' where pony rides and novelty dog shows can be observed and enjoyed. Food stalls and places to buy a refreshing cup of tea or coffee will be easily located.

For more info and ticket information logo onto
www.tatts.ie