The Association of Irish Riding Clubs (AIRC) Grassroots Jump Training Series has once again proven to be one of the most popular initiatives in recent years, with entry numbers up across all qualifiers. Now in its fourth successful year, the series continues to provide invaluable opportunities for club members to compete while receiving expert coaching and real-time feedback from accredited trainers.
The format allows participants to jump an initial round over a designated course, after which they receive constructive feedback before returning for a second judged round. Riders are scored not only on their technical performance but also on style, position, and overall impression—offering a well-rounded assessment designed to improve confidence and skill in the competitive arena.
This year’s series concluded at Emerald Equestrian Centre, Co. Kildare, where the finalists had the privilege of being assessed by international event rider Sarah Ennis. Ennis brings a wealth of experience to the role, having represented Ireland at two World Equestrian Games (2014 and 2018)—earning a team silver medal and finishing 5th individually at Tryon—as well as competing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and being selected for the Paris 2024 Olympics. She has also enjoyed success at the European Championships, where she placed 4th with the Irish team and 7th individually in 2017.
Ennis evaluated competitors across three classes—RC 70/80, RC 90, and RC 100/110—with the top riders demonstrating impressive consistency, skill, and composure under pressure.
In each division, the 1st and 2nd place riders were awarded training bursaries, while Premier Performance generously provided prizes from 1st to 6th place.
In the RC 70/RC 80 class, the competition was exceptionally close, with mere seconds separating the top riders. Hollybrook’s Roisin McMackin took the win by coming closest to the optimum time, narrowly ahead of Calliaghstown’s Mayah Sammon in second. Anne Grace (Anvil) claimed third, followed by Jacinta Colohan (Tynagh) in fourth, Caroll Donnelly (Tara Hill) in fifth, and Cathy Sayers (Drynam) completing the placings in sixth.
Roisin said about her win”I’m absolutely delighted and so proud to win the Grassroots Training Final. Beaux (Courcel Queen Bee) is my first horse, a 16 year old ISH mare I have owned since 2021. We have put in a lot of work to improve our dressage and jumping, so to win a competition which not only depends on a clear round, but also style of riding, means so much to me. Receiving such positive and helpful feedback from Andrew Byrne in the qualifier and Sarah Ennis in the final was a huge confidence boost. My coach, Lisa Carnegie, has been fundamental to our progress and I’m so grateful for all her help and support.”
The RC 90 division was another highly competitive class, with Coole Lane’s Shannon Pratt emerging as the deserving winner. Maria Keating (Springmount) secured second place, while Caoimhe Curran (Barrow Valley) took third. Maura Walsh (Tara Hill) placed fourth, Sophie De Jong (Fingal) finished fifth, and Aimee Carroll (Corrib) completed the top six.
Shannon said about the win “I think I’m still in shock to be honest! I’m delighted to have won the AIRC Grassroots 90cm training league! It’s an amazing competition that also gives you vital feedback from the judges that you can progress on. Its a great opportunity to talk to international riders like Sarah Ennis and gain valuable insight! Not to mention its a fun atmosphere and something a bit different.”
In the RC 100/RC 110 class, victory was decided by the narrowest of margins, with Hannah Linane (Brooke Lodge) claiming first place by just 0.5 of a point. Pamela Jackman (Golden Grove) took second, followed by Ciara Kelly (Castledermot) in third. Caroline Marwood (Knocknamana Country) finished fourth, Oliver Staunton (Tynagh) fifth, and Roisin Gilsenan (Kilrainy) rounded out the top six.
Hannah said about her win “I’m incredibly happy and proud of our achievement. Riding in the AIRC Grassroots Jump Training Series has taught us so much and given us real confidence to progress. A huge thanks to everyone who made it possible.”
The 2025 Grassroots Jump Training Series once again highlighted the strength and enthusiasm within Ireland’s riding club community. By combining competition with education, the initiative continues to nurture riders at every level—helping them develop both skill and confidence for future success.
Photo Credit: sagittarianphotography
