Classes:
CTR, PR & PC
Date:
Sun 28 Feb 2016
Branch:
Ulster Branch
Report & Results:
With endurance riding, participants have to be prepared for every meteorological eventuality - very often a day's riding can encompass all possible weather combinations and Ireland being as it is, that usually means rain - and quite a lot of it! So riders at ILDRA's recent Gosford Forest Park ride were not altogether surprised by a wet day and came suitably attired for the conditions. In the event, it was probably worse for those not riding - helpers, organisers and long-suffering vet, David Nealham MRCVS, as the forest provided some shelter from the worst of the weather, for those on the trail. Certainly, the competitive trail riders suffered no disadvantages from the conditions, as 16 out of the 17 entrants successfully accomplished their rides and upwards of 40 in total, including Pleasure Riders managed to salvage an enjoyable day out with their horses, proving the truth of the adage that there is no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes!
Competitive Trail Rides were available from pre-novice distance of 14 miles to Silver Qualifier distance of 28 miles, with a middle ground of 21 miles for Bronze Shamrock level.
Members, Karina McVeigh and Ruth Lyness achieved a long-held ambition in successfully completing their first Competitive Trail Ride, passing with flying colours, as did Jane Thom, in her first attempt at a Competitive Ride - congratulations to all - a real achievement in such conditions.
The next Ulster Branch ride will be at Baronscourt, Co.Tyrone on Sunday 15th March. This is always a lovely ride through the grounds of the beautiful Baronscourt Estate and surrounding countryside - all are welcome with Pleasure Rides available from 10am without pre-booking and Competitive Trail Rides for members. Check the website for further details www.enduranceridingireland or find us on Facebook.
RESULTS GOSFORD FOREST 22nd Feb
45km (28miles)
Robyn Catterall - Arabella Blue
Hannah Catterall - Ellanora
Emma Greer - Abbey Star
Helen McFarland - J.st.Jake
Ruth Cousins - Just C'Mall
Kirstin Thom - Nathan
Tasha Anderson - Annasach Bugatti
33km (21miles)
Jacob Morrow - Tambo
Shirlie Muldoon - Lakota
Dermott MacGuiness - Chinook
Jane Thom - Griffin
Karina Mcveigh - Cheyenne
Ruth Lyness - Amber
22km (14 miles)
Ian Gault - Be Merry
Gail Baillie - Little Miss Betsy
Erin Fowler - I'm Ami
Link:
More Details:
Gosford Forest Park is nice to ride around, see all the wild life including Sheep, Deer, Rabbits, Goats, Hen, Ducks and more. Make it a day out for all the family and bring your horse.
Ideal for accompanying younger children on foot or bike as it is a fairly flat route.
