All the club members who turned up to take part in or help out at the Derby were very glad that they made the effort. The weather gods were very kind and, once a morning shower passed over, the day was warm and dry. The venue was perfect for the event, with an impressive array of jumps available for Trish to use in designing the course. Kyle Hayes, of Aldertree Equine, was our dressage judge for the day. He was cheerful throughout and provided plenty of helpful comments on his judge’s sheets. Congratulations to all the competitors, particularly those who went away with a ribbons. A very sincere thanks to everyone who took part. We had a very good spread of clubs on the day and every club took home some rosettes or silverware.
Grace Rogers claimed the Primary Derby winner’s rosette.
Caroline Shiels was the AP Derby winner, with Samantha O’Neill and Suzanne Deeny-Wylie coming in 2nd and 3rd .
Cliff did Letterkenny proud when he managed a 1st and 3rd in the Intermediate Derby, with Lynne Thompson coming 2nd, Marina Hamilton 4th, and Francis McNicholl 5th.
In the Advanced Intermediate class Stephen Greene took the top prize, with Derek Kane 2nd, Daire Diver 3rd, Vanessa 4th and Jodie Carr 5th. Rachel will be back in action soon to keep this lot on their toes!
The dressage arena saw Ann Keaney take first place in the Primary dressage.
Nicola Coxford took 1st place in the AP class, with Vicki Hopkins 2nd and Samantha O’Neill 3rd.
The Intermediate class had Francis take a well deserved 1st on the ever improving Bonzo, with Lauren McLaughlin 2nd and Erin Fergus 3rd.
Nadine Gallagher, back in an equestrian saddle after a summer on bicycles, took 1st place in the advanced intermediate class. Cassandra McGee was 2nd and Andrea Gallagher 3rd.
Finally, the worthy winner of the Orla O’Riley cup was Nadine Gallagher who in the words of the judge showed great partnership with her horse. It was wonderful to have Orla’s partner, Jimmy, and her parents Brian and Helen, at the show to present Nadine with the shield in memory of a young lady who was such a supportive equestrian in our community.
If anyone would like to get a top class photo as a memento of a great day they should contact Megan Coxford, who too some stunning shots on Sunday and is extremely professional to deal with. Check out Megan’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Photographer/Megan-Coxford-Photography-291334481465657/
Letterkenny Riding Club 