Dublin - horsing around

The Dublin International Horse Show has been on for the last few days and it's just around the corner from where we are staying. So today we headed off to check it out.

It was kind of like the Royal Easter Show at home....only on a smaller scale and without the cows, chickens and show bags!

The horses do look beautiful and we got to see some of the early show-jumping competitions...

Action shot.....

The main arena.












It was a big day for Neve. She faced her fears and actually had a pony ride today. I am SO proud of her and she actually really loved it. The look on her face and she rode around in little circles was priceless! Eloise was actually scared for Neve before she got on the horse but was then so happy for her big sister. Eloise wasn't quite brave enough to have a turn herself...

My little champion!!!!!!

She even got a ribbon for her 'riding skills'















The show was great fun - we watched a Punch and Judy show and some Irish dancing (although Neve and Eloise were too busy rumbling on the grass to watch) and were going to watch the 'grand parade' in the main arena but it was too crowded. Even the president of Ireland was at the show today!!

Besides the main arena there were a few other judging rings where different horses were being judged for different things (including a mare and foal category) so we got to see some of that as well.

Neve was judged 'best in show'.....
























Another busy day.

Something I have noticed in Ireland - there are SO many redhead kids...it's ridiculous! They must outnumber other hair colours two to one. Neve certainly blends into the crowd. I think she feels quite at home here.....