Our AGM in Tir Na nOg was as enjoyable and sociable as always, with enough pizza to feed a small army and a desert of Cadburys Roses to round off the feast. Unfortunately Hazel was on sick leave but Louise was more than capable of filling in for her, taking copious notes and minutes. Marina ran through a report of the year past, pointing out just how much we had done over the last twelve months. A couple of events were missed in her report, but only because she relied on this website for her information…a hit and miss source of details at the best of times!!
It is testament to how easy going and pleasant our club members are when all of the committee members were quite happy to agree to continue in their present positions for a second year, making the proposing and seconding of elected positions very painless. The only change on the committee (I think) is that Rachel is now assistant chairperson, while Cormac took on the position of equipment-manager in addition to his role as regional delegate for the club. Maura steps into the role of child welfare officer, a role she’ll hopefully find less troublesome than the one of treasurer (not that she has shirked her responsibility in that department either).
Some discussion was given to the running of the next leg of the autumn league. It is being held at Twin Towns Equestrian Centre and our club is responsible for the running of it. One subject which was broached was the lack of a canteen at the venue and it was agreed that, as Stracomer and Tir Conall riding clubs had put on an impressive spread at the opening leg at Templemore, our club was honour bound to show due hospitality and we are asking all members to produce some tasty donations for the banquet table on Sunday. Whether you are a dab hand at the baking, or prefer to whip up a few rounds of good wholesome sandwiches, be assured your efforts will be truly appreciated. As usual the competitions kick off at 11am, and entries are accepted from 10.30, but obviously we need some hands on deck beforehand to ensure the place is ship shape and everything is in place for a smooth and, of course, safe show. Please contact Marina if you have a time or task which you are or are not available for.
Louise reassured us all that the plans for the annual dinner dance are well in hand, with the Villa Rose confirmed as the venue and a mulled wine reception to welcome us on the night. Remember that the dinner dance doubles up as the awards night for North West Riding Clubs leagues and is the night on which the Club of the Year is announced, so be sure to practice your ‘surprised but delighted’ face as well as the ‘I’m truly delighted for him/her’ face.
The evening was rounded off by the reading of the various nominations for both club horse of the year and club member of the year. The combination of Merlin and Rachel pulled off a double by being awarded both trophies after having what can only be described as a dream year at riding club events. Merlin was unable to be present to accept his award but Rachel agreed to pass it on to him at a suitable time in the future…when his medication has been increased and his psycho-therapist is on standby!
Letterkenny Riding Club 