The Skin Diary announces sponsorship of The Side Saddle Classes at this years RDS Dublin Horse Show

Danny Joyce | Editor
5 days ago
2 min read

Today (Monday, 14^th of July) Dr Clare Kiely, a leading Irish dermatologist and founder of The Skin Diary - a premium Irish skincare brand was at the iconic RDS showgrounds to announce the brand’s sponsorship of the two Side Saddle classes at the RDS Dublin Horse Show on Thursday 7^th and Sunday 10^th of August.

This year marks the 150^th RDS Dublin Horse Show and the side saddle class has been a part of the show for over one hundred years. It’s the epitome of equestrian elegance and horsemanship. The Dublin Horse Show has two classes - a Senior class that takes place on Thursday at 12.50pm which is affectionately known as Ladies Day as ladies rode side saddle in a Ladies Hunter class that was introduced into the shows schedule in 1925. Intermediate riders will compete in Ring 1 on Sunday 10^th August at 3pm.

*Pictured is founder of The Skin Diary, Dr Clare Keily Lt Michaeli Byrne and LMK Derry at the launch of the 2025 Dublin Horse Show in Ring 2 at the RDS.*

Dr Clare Kiely said today: “This marks our brands very first sponsorship and I couldn’t be happier that it’s in Dublin at this world renowned show. The class is such an example of expert horsemanship married with style – both of the rider and the horse. I am really looking forward to being back in Dublin, celebrating the 150th year of this fantastic show, and handing out the rosettes”.

The Side Saddle riders must adhere to a very strict dress code and indeed there are rules and regulations on how the horses are turned out, for example a horses mane should always be plaited. The side saddle rider wears a garment called ‘a habit’ which is made up of a waistcoat, jacket and apron and a silk hat or bowler hat always with a veil. The habit itself is a very stylish piece of clothing which hasn’t changed in terms of fashion detail since the Elizabethan times.

The current RDS Side Saddle champion Ciara Mullen says of the class: “Side saddle is more than tradition - it’s a powerful blend of grace, discipline, and heritage, and I’m honoured to represent its elegance on one of Ireland’s most prestigious stages. The camaraderie and sportsmanship among the ladies competing make the experience even more inspiring and unforgettable.

The two classes happen in Ring 2 on Thursday at 12.50pm and Ring 1 on Sunday at 3pm.

For more information visit www.theskindiary.com.

Slán go fóill.