Geography of Equestrianism

Dublin: Show jumping – RDS

Since it was first held in 1864 the Horse Show has become a Dublin institution. A celebration of Ireland's relationship with the horse, from the best show horses to the best international show jumpers. It is one of Ireland's largest events, a highlight of the summer, each year welcoming tens of thousands of people from Ireland and all over the world. The Horse Show is one of the world's best show jumping events. No lady was allowed to ride in any jumping competition until 1919 when a novelty class for women was introduced. In 1920 women were able to compete freely.

In 1976, after 50 years of international competition, the two grass banks in the Arena were removed so the Arena could be used for other events. The continental band at the western end of the Main Arena was added later. Shows have been held annually except from 1914-1919 due to World War 1 and from 1940 - 1946 due to World War2. The Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show is Ireland's largest equestrian event, and one of the largest events held on the island. The show has the third largest annual prize pool for International Show Jumping in the world.

http://www.britishpathe.com/record.php?id=43514

The Aga Khan

In 1926 International Competitions were introduced to the show and it was the first time the Nation’s Cup for the Aga Khan trophy was held. This trophy is known as the “Nations` Cup”. Six countries competed in the first international teams competition for the trophy - Great Britain, Holland, Belgium, France, Switzerland and Ireland. The Swiss team won the first title on Irish bred horses. Ireland won the title in 1937 and in 1979, Britain in 1953 and 1975. Since its inception, nearly 50% of the horses that took part on victorious Aga Khan Teams were Irish Bred.

Each country was represented by a team of four horses, with the best three counting at the finish. Speed competitions that were so popular on the Continent, became a feature of the Khan Trophy in 1951, when a time limit was introduced. To win the Aga Khan Trophy, the team must have won the title three times in a row.

With wins in 2002 and 2003 France were in contention to win the Aga Khan Trophy in 2004. If victorious this would have been the first time in 25 years the cup had been won. However, Ireland won the 2004 Aga Khan Trophy and this spoiled France’s chances of making it a 3rd consecutive win and taking home the trophy.

Great Britain won the Aga Khan Trophy in 2005

Germany won the Aga Khan Trophy in 2006 and 2007

Great Britain won the Aga Khan Trophy in 2008

Italy won the Aga Khan Trophy in 2009

The Netherlands won the Aga Khan Trophy in 2010