Country Fayre is about much more than horses

Mullingar Equestrian Centre hosts the 21st Mullingar Country Fayre and International Horse Festival from this Friday May 31. The Fayre is traditionally associated with show jumping and equine events, but has expanded to include other attractions.

Show director Robert Fagan says: “We have a large number of entries for this year’s showjumping events and I anticipate we will have an excellent four days of competition, and this year the show has opened up to include an assortment of non-equine events,” he said.

Junior riders from Westmeath are looking forward to teaming up with the professionals for the annual Pro-Am competition on Monday. Some of the children taking part are Emma Hetherton, Amy Cullen, Chloe Crowley, Orla Cuffe, Sophie Treanor, Katie Leavy, Jodie Flanagan, Robin Fagan and Chloe Fagan. It is a knockout event in aid of Westmeath Hospice.

Outside of the showjumping there are IWW wrestlers, pony rides, pet farm, climbing wall, face painting, funfair, archery, and dog shows. Music lovers have a stage hosting local acts and horse racing fans will be treated to a parade of Grand National winner Liberty Counsel in the main arena at 4.40pm on Monday.
Businesses will be showing their merchandise as stands will be set up for visitors to browse, including Ashe Equestrian, which will have a stall to cater for last minute needs.

However, undoubtedly one of the unique charms of this year’s show will be the spectacular ladies side saddle display on Saturday at approximately 4pm. Mullingar Equestrian are said to be passionate about this traditional form of horse riding.

Mullingar Lions Club are hosting a steak out on Sunday at 8pm. Tickets are €20, which includes food and a delicious locally sourced organic burger, or €10 for entry-only. The popular Tennessee Show Band will entertain throughout the evening. This event will take place in the indoor arena during the human puissance, which attracted the masses last year.