Tuesday the 14th of June saw the official launch of the Munster Stadium Showjumping Cork, which took place in Curraheen Park greyhound stadium, the venue for the Cork leg of Munster Stadium Showjumping, which will take place on July 8th.

A large crowd was in attendance at the Cork venue with a lot of positivity towards the event coming from all in attendance. Speaking at the launch Munster region Showjumping chairman Tony Hurley said " Following on from the success that was Jumping in the City last year, the Munster region felt it was an event that had to go ahead again in 2016, we are delighted to have received the backing of Horse Sport Ireland to run the events, and have qualifying places for Jumping in the City in Shelbourne Park in August. The response we have received from both competitors and spectators alike about the event has been unbelievable, and it has the making to top last year"

Kieran O Donovan Munster National Competitions Representative and event coordinator in Cork said "It is great to welcome showjumping back to the Greyhound track in Cork again, after the success of last year people were very interested in having the jumping back again in 2016. We will have some of the world's best competing at the event, along with a host of other attractions to keep the whole family entertained".

The event will see a new format for the 2016 running, with four classes taking place, kicking off the evening will be an Amateur class, followed by a 128 Pony class which always promises to be a very entertaining.  The Grand Prix riders will then take centre stage for the €6000 Munster Stadium Showjumping Grand Prix which will attract some of the country’s top athletes, the last class of the evening will see the local hunts do battle in an inter-hunt challenge, they will battle it out to claim local bragging rights and be titled ‘Munster Stadium Showjumping inter-hunt challenge winners’.

While showjumping is to the forefront it isn't the only entertainment on offer on the night, the world renowned Liam O Connor who has been said the have the ‘possession’ of the fastest fingers in the world and referred to as, ‘the Jimi Hendrix of the accordion’ will be on hand to provide entertainment, along with the ‘most stylish person’ being crowned. All this, as well as a host of other entertainment for all the family.

There are various hospitality options to cater for everyone, with bookings to be made through the igb.ie website or on 1890 269969, or general admission available on the door on the night. So why not come along on July 8th to Curraheen Greyhound Track for an evening of top class jumping, and entertainment for all the family.

Editor: Michael Flynn, Munster Showjumping PRO