Endurance Riding Ireland

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Woodburn Forest Ride and BBQ
(Saturday Ride)

Classes:

PR - And Annual Ulster Branch BBQ

Date:

Sat 06 Jul 2019

Branch:

   Ulster Branch

St. Patricks Coast Ride

Report & Results:

The Irish Long Distance Riding Association’s annual BBQ and Pleasure Ride took place on Saturday 6th July at Woodburn Forest near Carrickfergus in County Antrim. A great turnout of riders of all ages and abilities enjoyed the lovely trails through the forest and along the edges of the three reservoirs. There were opportunities for a nice canter along some of the grassy verges along the water’s edge whilst some of the rougher tracks called for a more leisurely pace. These conditions were ideal for some of the younger riders on lead rein enjoying an introduction to ILDRA’s many safe off-road riding events.

A beautiful clear sunny day enabled great views over the surrounding countryside, with a bird’s eye view over Kilroot Power Station to Belfast lough and to picturesque parts of the County Down coast. Delicate flowers of pyramidal orchids and foxgloves lined the woodlands surrounding the extensive trails at Woodburn Forest Park.

Following the completion of the well-marked 5.5 mile route, riders and their accompanying walkers gathered around the coals to cook their burgers and sausages on their well-lit BBQ to complete their picnics and discuss all matters horsey. Picnics completed happy riders headed home with a colourful rosette as a memento of an enjoyable pleasure ride.

Thanks are due to Woodburn Presbyterian Church for the use of their car park and facilities, to the Northern Ireland Water Service and to the Forestry Service for access to this lovely wooded reservoir site. Thanks go to the ride organisers of Ruth Lyness, Karina McVeigh and Susie Kinley for marking and running the ride on the day and to members of the Ulster Branch committee for supplying BBQ essentials. ILDRA’s next ride is at the stunning Glenariff Forest Park, famous for its waterfalls and spectacular views. This ride offers pleasure rides only and takes place on the 28th July, for further information contact ILDRA’s Facebook page or website.


Image Ref: 2554141754610291

More Details:

Parking at Woodburn Presbyterian Church

Pleasure ride only.

Our team have been out checking the tracks and report back "Walking the Woodburn route and all looking good. Stoned area from last year is now well bedded down." so all promising.

This year the Ulster Branch annual BBQ is being held at this ride. Bring your own meat or fish etc to cook on our BBQ and we will have some rolls and salad to share around after your ride. Join for for bit of criac after the ride but don't forget to bring a some water and a wee feed for your horse as well if he is going to be standing while you cook and cook...

Map as downloadable .pdf