An Cosantóir

An Cosantóir May / June 2026 www.military.ie/magazine A ceremony to mark the centenary of the Army Equitation School took place in McKee Barracks on 30 April 2026. The Minister for Defence, Helen McEntee TD, inspected the parade at an event celebrating a century of excellence, service and sporting achievement by the Army Equitation School, which has represented Ireland with distinction at home and abroad. Established in 1926, just four years after the foundation of the State, the School was created to develop riding and equitation skills within the Army while promoting Ireland through international equestrian sport. From its beginnings at McKee Barracks, it quickly earned a reputation for producing riders, horses and training standards of the highest calibre. Over the past century, the Army Equitation School has maintained a unique dual role: supporting military riding capabilities while representing Ireland on the international stage. Army riders have competed at Olympic Games, World and European Championships, and Nations Cups, earning global respect for their professionalism and horsemanship. Since the end of the Second World War, individual Army Riders have won hundreds of international classes and numerous individual grand prix achievements. Col Ned Campion was a notable winner, from his first international win in New York in 1962 to that unforgettable Aga Khan victory in 1967 on the great Liathdruim, flying the tricolour on over 65 Nations Cup teams. Minister McEntee said: "The Army Equitation School represents the very best traditions of the Defence Forces — excellence, discipline, commitment and service. For 100 years, its riders and staff have represented Ireland with distinction across the world and made an enormous contribution to Irish equestrian sport. "The school has also played an important role in strengthening Ireland's reputation as a leading equestrian nation and continues to inspire future generations through its dedication and professionalism." Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, Lt Gen Rossa Mulcahy said: "On the centenary of the Army Equitation School, we honour a legacy defined by discipline, pride, excellence and an enduring partnership between the Defence Forces and the Irish Horse. For the past 100 years the school has represented the best of our traditions with innovation, skill and unwavering dedication on a national and international stage. As we look to the future, we do so with pride in what has been achieved and with confidence that this proud institution will continue to inspire generations to come." 26 | ARMY EQUITATION SCHOOL ARMY EQUITATION SCHOOL CENTENARY PARADE CENTENARY PARADE

• Cover