Baronscourt

Report & Results:

ILDRA (Irish Long Distance Riding Association) returned for the second time this year to the magnificent Baronscourt Estate near Newtownstewart on the 5^th of May 2019. Arguably one of ILDRA’s most stunning locations, Baronscourt Estate offers a range of varied trails and beautiful views for ILDRA’s riders to enjoy.

Springtime weather made for excellent riding conditions on the day. The trail rides at Baronscourt cover a range of environments from lakesides to mountainous views across the County Tyrone landscape. The Estate’s 3 lakes make for tranquil riding conditions with endless woodlands covered in bluebells making for some perfect photo opportunities. Vibrant colours of rampant rhododendrons planted close to the grand Baronscourt House also made for beautiful viewing. Deer could be spotted springing across the woodland trails along with young pheasants.

David Nealon, MRCVS, was the attending veterinary on the day and was kept busy checking over the several endurance horses. With increased competition distances, mid-way ride checks are required for riders taking part to ensure that their horses are fit to continue, keeping attending vets very busy! Helen McFarland on ‘J St Jake’ successfully completed a 50-mile ride at Baronscourt, both Helen and ‘Jake’ are very well experienced in the knowledge and training required to complete long distance rides.

Completing a ride of 50 miles or more is not the aspiration of every endurance rider, some simply enjoy covering 20-25 miles of beautiful ground with their horses, exploring hidden locations for riding across Northern Ireland. Such a competition which captures the inclusive nature of endurance is the Home Internationals and Celtic Challenge competition which offers riders of all ages and abilities the chance to represent Ireland. This year Wales is hosting the Home Internationals and Celtic Challenge at The British Horse Feed’s Red Dragon Festival of Endurance on the 5^th and 6^th of October. ILDRA strongly encourages riders to come and try endurance with several team positions to fill, including those specifically for novice riders and horses who have never competed in endurance before. The world of endurance is extremely friendly and ILDRA is always happy to offer support and advice to anyone wishing to try out CTRs (Competitive Trail Rides).

Thanks, must go to the ride organisers of Kathy and Alastair Conly for marking and running the ride on the day. Thanks also go to the Duke of Abercorn and the Estate staff for allowing access to Baronscourt Estate and its wonderful trails. ILDRA’s next ride is at Cam Forest near Garvagh on the 26^th of May offering CTR and pleasure riders. A reminder to all CTR riders to enter online or via post. For further information check ILDRA’s website or ILDRA’s facebook page.

Results

12 miles (20km) Pony Club Merlin

Amy Murphy on Sweet Honey Bee.

25 miles (40km)

Emma Hayes on Yasser Arafat, Jocelyn Willis on Sam, Karina McVeigh on Cheyenne, Ruth Lyness on Amber.

50 miles (80km)

Helen McFarland on J St Jake.

More Details:

A 3rd visit the West and 2nd to Baronscourt for the year

Baronscourt Estate is Lord Abercorn’s magnificent seat….the great number of fine oaks and three long narrow lakes which ornament this place give it an air of great grandeur. While you ride around the estate in spring and early summer you can enjoy the magnificent displays of bluebells, rhododendrons and azaleas. The carefully tended woods along with the lakes create a truly enchanted location in which to ride away from the pressures of modern living.

This ride is not too hilly and suitable for accompanying younger children on foot or bike.

CTRs and Pony Club Rides of up to 80km available - remember you must enter in advance for ALL competitive rides now. Use the on-line system or good old Royal Mail - links to the system and form below - on-line payment will be by credit card, postal entries must be accompanied with payment.