After several weeks of speculation, the Irish have now confirmed their team for the Anglo-Irish Challenge at this year’s Royal Windsor Horse Show, 10th -14th May. Following the announcement of a very strong squad from the Brits, the Irish selectors and their team captain, Peter Charles, knew that they would have to respond with a team of equal calibre and they have done exactly that. Riding for the Irish under the guidance of Chef d’Equipe Tommy Wade will be; Peter Charles, Marion Hughes, Edward Doyle, Dermott Lennon, Paul Darragh, Harry Marshall, Robert Splaine and Billy Twomey. Robert Power will be the reserve. The British Team announced a fortnight ago by Team Captain Geoff Billington consists of the countries leading riders; John and Michael Whitaker, Robert Smith, Tim Stockdale, Di Lampard, Andrew Davies and Nick Skelton. The British Chef d’Equipe will be the experienced Ronnie Massarella. On his return from last weekend’s World Cup Final in Las Vegas, where he finished equal 6th, Peter Charles said: “I knew that the home nation would be fielding a good side, so I have worked with Tommy Wade and the selectors to put together a squad of comparable strength. I think we have achieved that aim and I am looking forward to working with the team to ensure we take the Halloween Cup back to the Emerald Isle.” Over the five days of the Royal Windsor Horse Show, the two teams, representing their respective countries, will pitch their horses and riders against each other in this battle for national pride. The teams will gain points during the week from four nominated competitions including the Final on the Saturday. Points awarded from the Final will have higher weighting, which will add tension to the atmosphere in the famous Castle Arena, when the competition reaches its climax. The points accumulated by the Teams will be totalled to decide the final standings. All previous releases on this subject and all other issues concerning the show are available on the official Royal Windsor website; www.royal-windsor-horse-show.co.uk www.bsja.co.uk www.aspreyandgarrard.com FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Please contact Candy Burnyeat or Beany McLean 01753 847916 Email: nutter@easynet.co.uk