On Saturday night, at the North West Riding Club’s annual dinner dance and awards, a new award will be presented. This is the North West Riding Clubs Person of the Year. It is a recognition of the time, effort and commitment that some people make, or have made, to the clubs in the district. These people are frequently not members and often don’t ride at all, but will be seen at many events over the course of the year, tirelessly slogging away in the background. We want them to know that they are seen, they are valued, and they are truly appreciated. If you haven’t yet got your tickets I’m afraid you have missed the boat, but you can still get raffle tickets via https://itsplainsailing.com/org/nwrc .
The 2025 nominees for NWRC Person of the Year are as follows:
Claire O’Rourke
Claire travels to all the regional and national events to support the local club members. She is always on hand with a positive word and is the first to step into the ever-present role of club volunteer. Her friendly, cheery attitude is exactly what makes her a most valuable club supporter.
Erin Fergus
Erin needs no introduction to anyone who is involved in riding club, not just in the NW but throughout the huge AIRC West region. She dedicates her days to supporting clubs and club members at any events they are attending, then gives up her evenings to serve as a very dedicated representative on national committees. Her determination to see all members, clubs and regions treated fairly is well known, but most of all Erin is encouraging and “just a lovely person”.
Mary Finneran
Mary was always a huge supporter of grassroots ownership and throughout her years of coaching, at every level, she actively encouraged and promoted responsible ownership and equestrianism. From her riding school in Glenleary she started many people on the ownership ladder and set about getting riding club up and running. From a first gathering in the lobby of the Mount Errigal hotel she continued to offer support through coaching, providing a venue and most of all through her sound advice on how to be a club that would stand the test of time.
Jenny Coe
Jenny is a classic example of someone who tirelessly gives to local riding club. She gives her time to volunteer for the thankless task of safety officer, she gives kind words and a listening ear when they are most needed, and she gives a never ending supply of delicious baking to sustain the body as well as the soul of those lucky enough to meet her. From her time as a founding member of the Letterkenny club she has continued to enjoy the social aspect of a shared love of horses, and a connection with the equestrian community. Jenny is a textbook example of what makes riding club in the North West such a great thing to be involved in.
Anne Chambers
Anne will be the first person to welcome a new face to any event. Like so many people she has a hectic, and at times challenging, life outside of riding club, but always shows up with a cheerful smile and ready laughs. She is the first to offer a mount to anyone in need and is brave enough to take the ride on a strange horse if it means helping out a team. Her naturally caring character shines through, and her calm and steady attitude at times of stress are exactly what are needed. She is a ray of sunshine at any show she attends.
Letterkenny Riding Club 