Festina Lente celebrates the diversity of the Horse - Human Connection at the 150th RDS Dublin Horse Show

Bray, Co. Wicklow – Festina Lente, a national leader in inclusive equestrian and horticultural programmes, is proud to announce its participation in the 150th RDS Dublin Horse Show with a diverse and engaging programme that highlights the profound relationship between humans and horses.

Over the five-days of the Show, Festina Lente will be present in three key areas:

• In the Family Area - visitors will have the opportunity to meet four of Festina Lente’s beloved miniature ponies, who play an integral role in outreach and therapeutic work with children and adults of all abilities.

• In the Main Hall - Festina Lente will host an interactive stand, providing information about its nationally recognised programmes in therapeutic riding, equine-assisted learning, vocational training, and inclusive horsemanship.

• In Rings 1 and 2 (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) - Festina Lente will present a series of demonstrations that celebrate the versatility and accessibility of equestrian activities.  These include vaulting, therapeutic riding, long-lining, and leading by adults who are wheelchair users — showcasing the ways horses support learning, independence, and social inclusion. 

A major highlight of the weekend’s programme will take place on Sunday, when Grand National and Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning jockey Rachel Blackmore will ride A Plus Tard in a special display alongside one of Festina Lente’s therapeutic riders, who will ride former Grand National competitor Raz de Maree.   This unique moment symbolises the inclusive nature of the horse–human partnership, bringing together elite sport and therapeutic horsemanship.

Chief Executive Officer of Festina Lente, Dr Jill Carey will also speak at the Show on the horse–human relationship and its evidence-based benefits for wellbeing, emotional regulation, and community inclusion.

“We are honoured to be part of the RDS Dublin Horse Show once again and to celebrate its 150^th Anniversary by bringing visibility to the many ways horses support people of all abilities,” said  Dr Carey,  “This is not only a celebration of Ireland’s rich equestrian heritage, but also of the horse’s enduring role as a bridge to connection, growth, and inclusion”.

Festina Lente operates from its main campus in Bray, Co. Wicklow, with outreach programmes in various locations.  It supports thousands of participants annually through accredited education, therapeutic interventions, and inclusive community initiatives.

 

 

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For further information contact:

Dr Jill Carey
Chief Executive Officer
Phone: 086 3549755 
Email: jillcarey@festinalente.ie