This article is from page 8 of the 2006-06-20 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 8 JPG
THOUSANDS of visitors will flock to Spancilhill on Friday for the annual fair that vies with Ballinasloe for the honour and glory of being the biggest equine gathering of the year.
The Fair of Spancilhill has been running since the mid 1600s and in its heyday attracted horse buyers from all over Europe.
Napoleon’s generals used to come to Spancilhill, looking for horses that would be up to tackling his many war front around his sprawling empire.
Those days may be gone, but there is still a trickle of European visitors to Spancilhill every year, while the fair is celebrated in song and story.
And, not all of those who flock to the cross of Spancilhill are there to buy horses. Some just come for this history and the novelty of it all.
All because, Spancilhill is now considered one of the great days out in the social calendar – a day where experiencing all the fun of the fair is the motto of organisers and participants alike.
Wheeling and dealing as horses and ponies are knocked down, competitions and fun for all the family. “We are looking forward to a great day and are expecting a large turnout,” said Fair PRO Paddy Hassett.
“The champion of the fair will be crowned the Pride of Spancilhill, while there will also competitions for the best dressing lady and best dressed gent.
Among many other things there will also be a raffle for a pony,” he added.