The West Midlands Regional Dressage Qualifier took place at Roscrea Equestrian Centre on Sunday, 26th July, where riders gathered to compete for their place at the AIRC National Dressage Championships. While the weather was a mixed bag throughout the day, it certainly didn’t dampen the spirits of competitors, volunteers or spectators.

Arena 2 got underway with Three Counties secretary Sally Ryan acting as pathfinder aboard her new horse, Lord of Winterfell. The pair impressed with a lovely test, making it a successful first competition together and setting the tone for the day.

The P2 Qualifier saw Clonlara’s Pauline Woodhouse and May Belle claim top honours after a polished performance. Corrib riders Evelyn Coyne with Coolarne Jade and Claire Cleary aboard Cluainaonaigh Grace’s Diamond secured the remaining qualifying places. Having travelled over two hours to Roscrea, the Corrib riders certainly made the journey home a much happier one.

The P3 Qualifier belonged to Mill Road Riding Club, who produced a remarkable clean sweep of the top four places. Carly Walsh and King Atlas took the win, followed by Joanna Lewis with Kiltiernan Sapphire, Michelle Dunphy aboard Sport Boy, and Emma Meagher riding Rulahisu Romeo.

In the Novice section, Lucy Daly from Castlecarraig Riding Club partnered Sallybank Calypso to victory, while Mary Hogan from Slieve Bloom Riding Club finished in second place with Roden Ruby.

Twinfort Riding Club dominated the higher-level classes, with riders benefiting from the guidance of their trainer, Donie McNamara. Tabitha Miller-Hagerty, returning to the saddle aboard Darksite, produced an excellent performance to win the Medium class. Her result also helped Twinfort secure the team qualification, earning them a place at the AIRC National Dressage Championships, which will take place in Mullingar on 30th August.

The West Midlands Region extends its sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the event such a success. A special thank you goes to our fantastic volunteers who gave their time over both Saturday and Sunday, to David Maher and the team at Roscrea Equestrian Centre for providing an excellent venue, and to our judges, Elena and Marian, for their professionalism and expertise throughout the day.

Congratulations to all of our qualifiers, and we wish them every success as they represent the West Midlands Region at the National Dressage Championships in Mullingar.

Written By: Samantha Hayes

Photo Credit: Michaela Duffy of MD Equestrian Photography