As the Royal Dublin Society’s show director, Fiona Sheridan is responsible for the successful delivery of the annual Dublin Horse Show. Showcasing the best of Irish equestrianism to the world is a huge responsibility. For Sheridan, it’s also a labour of love.
Tell us a little about your background and how long you’ve been with the Show
I’m from near Ballinrobe in Co Mayo and I grew up with horses. We had mares and stallions at home and I had ponies and show jumped from a young age. I still keep a few horses myself – I couldn’t be without them – so I have a good understanding of the equestrian world and community.
Over the years at the RDS I have seen first-hand the significant impact the show has on both the industry and the wider public. Serious business is done not just during the show but in the weeks and months after it.
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What does 150 years of the Dublin Horse Show mean to you?
Celebrating 150 years of the Dublin Horse Show this year is a remarkable milestone. It reflects how the RDS and the show have evolved and adapted to meet the changing needs of the equestrian sector, while remaining true to core values and traditions.
The fact that the Show is not only still going, but stronger than ever, is something to be incredibly proud of. For me, it represents a legacy of excellence and a deep commitment to showcasing the very best of Irish equestrian talent – both horse and rider – on the world stage.
We also have 230 officials helping out, the vast majority of whom are volunteers, from arrivals stewards to pocket stewards, which gives it such a great sense of camaraderie.
Why does the Show resonate with the audiences that attend each year?
More than just a series of equestrian competitions, it is a celebration of the horse and the special bond between humans and animals. Whether you are a seasoned equestrian or a newcomer to the sport, the Show offers something for everyone.
From the thrill of the International competition in the Nations’ Cup and Grand Prix to the tradition of the Show Hunters or the in-hand classes, there is a sense of community and shared passion that is hard to find elsewhere. For me one of the highlights is seeing the reactions of international equestrians who have never been to it before and who are just blown away by the variety of it.
There’s no show like it anywhere. It is 43 acres in a capital city with 1600 horses competing across five days, everything from working hunter and Connemara ponies to draught stallions. And the judges we bring in for the showing classes, mostly from overseas, are the crème de la crème in their discipline which is why, for any competitor, to win a rosette at Dublin is such a matter of pride.
Can you give us a sense of Ireland’s history in showjumping and the standing the Show has on the world stage?
Ireland has a very rich and proud equestrian history, and the Dublin Horse Show has been central to this, as the showcase and platform to demonstrate it for the past 150 years. Over the years, the Show has evolved to meet the changing needs of the industry, incorporating new competitions and initiatives while maintaining its tradition and charm.
Today, the Show is renowned globally for its high standards, attracting top talent internationally and showcasing the very best of Irish equestrian excellence.
What have been your own personal Show highlights down through the years?
The great Nations’ Cup wins by the Irish team always stand out, there is something truly special about seeing the home crowd erupt with pride. One moment that really sticks with me was when Mexico won the Aga Khan Trophy in 2018. They were complete outsiders but to witness the emotion, the celebration, and what that win meant to them, and how the Irish crowd embraced it and got behind them, was incredibly moving.
What really stands out overall though, is the dedication and passion of the equestrian community. I have had the privilege of watching some exceptional horses and riders compete here. Just seeing what it means to them to make it to the Dublin Horse Show is a privilege in itself. Whether it’s getting through a highly competitive qualifier series or the immense time and effort involved in preparing a horse for this level, it all speaks to a deep commitment, underpinned by a genuine love of the horse.
What can people look forward to in 2025?
Audiences can look forward to a full and vibrant programme celebrating the very best of equestrian sport. We will be hosting top-level international competition, including the pinnacle events of the Nations’ Cup of Ireland and the Rolex Grand Prix.
Beyond the sport, there will be something for everyone; from exclusive masterclasses with Canadian equestrian legend, Ian Millar, to captivating demonstrations by equestrian artist and performer, Santi Serra. Visitors can also enjoy fashion, shopping, fantastic food, and that unique celebratory atmosphere that makes the Dublin Horse Show so special.
This year is particularly exciting as we mark the Show’s 150th anniversary. To celebrate, we will feature a special exhibition showcasing the Show’s rich history, tradition, and the important role it has played in Irish life and culture over the past century and a half. From Wednesday, August 6th to Sunday, August 10th, we are set for five unforgettable days, which are not to be missed!
