Marina and Rachel both participated in the ILDRA endurance ride at Baronscourt on Sunday. Marina accompanied her daughters on Shank’s Mare and opted for the shorter circuit while Rachel rode the 12 mile route with daughter Emma and two friends. Rachel was pretty impressed with the day:
The chance to ride on an estate as extensive as Baronscourt is a rare opportunity but, if it arises again, I would STRONGLY recommend everyone to make full use of it. Myself, Emma, Jacqui and Rachel enjoyed 12 miles of absolutely idyllic surroundings comprising forest tracks, private avenues and some very quiet public roads. There was ample opportunity for cantering and terrain varied between hilly woodland and flat lakeside trails. There were a few gates to be opened and closed at the start and finish of the route but we delegated the job to the kids who are young and nimble and need the practice more than we do!! Our mounts consisted of a 3-year-old racehorse, two newly broken ponies and one old reliable to keep us all right, and every one of them thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Having completed the ride we enjoyed a well earned picnic as the horses relaxed and cropped picture perfect grass. We not only received lovely rosettes for completing the ride, we also saw deer in their natural environment and had a chance to totally unwind and forget the worries of the world. Don’t miss this ILDRA ride next year.
Pictured below: Rachel’s posse at Baronscourt, photographed from her perch on Bruce, a 3-yr-old thoroughbred racing tripod.
Letterkenny Riding Club 