Fresh from an impressive second place in the Rolex Grand Prix Ville de Dinard with Mr. Tac, Harrie Smolders is back in action this week at the Dublin Horse Show, ready to challenge for another major title in the RDS Main Arena. And just like in Dinard, he will once again face Aaron Vale, who claimed the top spot in France with Carissimo 25. Both riders return with the same horses, setting the stage for a thrilling rematch in Sunday’s Rolex Grand Prix of Ireland.

Reflecting on Dinard, Smolders recalled the unique challenge of the French venue:

“In Dinard, it’s a difficult thing, you know, it goes up and down. The first days were a little bit tense, and then in the Grand Prix it was fantastic. He was double clear, jumping outstanding.”
This year, the Dutch rider has deliberately targeted venues with big, flowing grass arenas to suit Mr. Tac.
“I’ve done a few more grass fields this year. I went to Hamburg at the beginning of the season to find out how he was on those crossings. He has a big stride, and it paid off very well. I get more and more confirmation that these kinds of venues suit him.”

Now, all focus turns to Sunday.
“First, I needed to be sure he likes those kinds of venues, and now I know I have a horse for it. Dublin is such a beautiful show, with so much history, and I love to come here if I have the right horse. Hopefully, the next step will be Calgary.”

When asked about facing Aaron Vale again, Smolders smiled:
“Aaron was outstanding in Dinard—unbeatable. He really deserved to win that day. But we’re in the jump-off again here, it’s a new game. First, we try to go clear, and if I meet him again in the jump-off… maybe it’s my day.”