Torrential rain made warm-up at the Strule Valley Team Show Jumping Challenge less than pleasant but our team members greatly enjoyed the experience of competing in the spacious indoor arena amongst a very friendly crowd with a positive and encouraging judge. There was no victory for Letterkenny on the night, top spot going to Strule Valley Riding Club’s red team. Several of our competitors found themselves disadvantaged by the long travel time, appalling weather conditions and hurried warm-up. Nevertheless everybody finished up their two rounds (one standard, one against the clock) drawing plenty of positives from the whole experience. It was a great opportunity for novice riders to get out and learn the ropes.
Lucinda Houston, chairman of the Strule Valley club was deeply appreciative of the effort and enthusiasm shown by Letterkenny in attending the event and there will be plenty more opportunities for similar invitations, if we’re keen.
Audrey was surely the hero of the night, withstanding atrocious weather conditions to help everybody warm up properly before their competitive round. Francis kept things flowing and was invaluable in his support and management of the teams.
There were no club cameras there on the night but there were a couple of professional photographers on the scene and we’ll track down the details of their websites. Alison Donnell, secretary of Strule Valley, is going to send on a few of her photos as well.
Letterkenny Riding Club 