An Cosantóir February 2016 www.dfmagazine.ie
32 |
T
he Chief of Staff, Vice Admiral Mark Mellett, recently
hosted a Christmas reception in the Defence Forces
Training Centre (DFTC) for members of the equestrian
community in the hinterland where the opportunity was taken to dis-
cuss current collaborations and our mutually exciting futures. The history
of the Defence Forces in the Curragh is inextricably linked with the eques-
trian community with over 50 licensed horse trainers on the periphery of
the Curragh Plains and the DFTC situated in the centre of the 5000 acre
Curragh lands. The Defence Forces Equitation School was founded in 1926
to promote Ireland and the Irish horse. Since then the Equitation School
has continuously provided riders to the Irish show-jumping and event
teams. Defence Forces competitors have represented Ireland at Olympic,
World and European Championship level in Show-jumping and Three Day
Eventing. The Equitation School is located in McKee Barracks Dublin and
has a very active yard in the Curragh Camp. Through the participation of
its riders in various national equestrian bodies, the Defence Forces Equi-
tation School aids in the development of riding and general equestrian
development by passing on the invaluable training and experience gained
by its competitive riders.
for the equestrian community
Enjoying the reception' L/R Mr. John Oxx
senior trainer, Mr. Paul Hensey Curragh
racecourse manager and Mr. Michael
O'Rourke Turf Club A/CEO
The COS and GOC DFTC sharing stories with Senior
Curragh trainers Dermot Weld and son Mark Weld
Lt Jennifer Larkin on Donadea, DF Equitation
School, the centres of attraction at DF Raceday
Jockey Billy Lee rides the winner of
the DF race at the Curragh 2015
by LT COL MICHAEL DAWSON, OIC PUBLIC RELATIONS BRANCH
PHOTOS by SGT KARL ByRNE
