The AIRC Grassroots Jump Training Series Final took place last Saturday, 7th November, at Emerald Equestrian, Co. Kildare, bringing together riders from across the country for a fantastic day of training, learning and competition.
The day saw competitors take part across three classes: RC70/RC80, RC90 and RC100/RC110, with riders having the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and receive valuable feedback in a supportive environment.
We were delighted to welcome Gerald Bloomer as assessor for the day. Gerald brought great experience and attention to detail to the arena, taking a genuine interest in each combination and offering individual advice and encouragement throughout. His knowledge and willingness to work with every rider made a real difference to the day, and we would like to sincerely thank him for giving his time and expertise to the series.
There was a very high standard of riding across all three classes, with some excellent performances from both horses and riders.
Results
RC70 / RC80 Jump Training
1st – Laura Bell McKevitt – Woodside Kiss Me Quick – Ard Lu
2nd – Gemma Dalton – Ballyfruit Christy – Mosstown
3rd – Alana O’Malley – Mochulla Dan – Galway West
4th – Patrick Byrne – Macimor R – Barrow Valley
5th – Joan Brady – Bobby Dazzler II – Meath
6th – Joy Murray – Bee Smooth – Meath
RC90 Jump Training
1st – Niamh Lawless – Cyruso H – Killcarrick
2nd – Heather Dean Wright – Ard Indianna – Tara Hill
3rd – Rebecca Matthews – Benvarden Dakota – Castle Hill
4th – Ciara Shannon – Browneshill Barney – Coole Lane
5th – Niamh Crowley – Culleens Paddy – Highland Lodge
6th – Lynne Broderick – Cnocban Blaze – Castle Hill
RC100 / RC110 Jump Training
1st – Jenny Byrne – Sligo Miss Candy – Calliaghstown
2nd – Marie Claire Rogers – Eris m2s – Corrib
3rd – Aisling McGrath – Coober Pedy – Corrib
4th – Kate O’Driscoll – Ardkilly Lukes Charmer – Earl’s Well
5th – Emma Meagher – Rulahisu Romeo – Mill Road
6th – Roisin Gilsenan – Major Tom Franklin – Kilrainy
Niamh Lawless (Killcarrick Riding Club) said about her win in the RC 90 class”I loved competing in the Grassroots series and received valuable feedback that I will take with me into future competitions. My horse and I are only a new partnership this year so the Grassroots series was a great opportunity for us to learn and overall a fun experience. Our win at the final was made even more special as we have just recently stepped up to 90s level. My horse Ruso always tries his hardest and is definitely at his happiest when he’s jumping! “
Jenny Byrne (Calliasghtwon Riding Club) said about her win in the RC 100 / RC 110 class ” Receiving constructive feedback from both assessors at the qualifier and the final was invaluable. I feel the Grassroots Jump Training Series Show offers a wonderful opportunity to receive this type of feedback, which is not something you would ordinarily get at a show jumping competition. It provides a great opportunity to learn, develop and improve both show jumping technique and riding style. I really hope this initiative continues into the future, as I know there are so many club members who would love the opportunity to take part. I am really looking forward to the training that Candy and I will gain from the training bursary. It is an incredibly generous prize and, without doubt, the biggest prize we have ever won! Thank you again for all the work that went into making the event such a success. I will be delighted to keep you updated on how our training progresses.”
A special thank you to Premier Performance, who generously provided prizes for the final. We were also delighted to welcome Ciara O’Malley from Premier Performance, who joined us on the day. In addition, the first and second-placed competitors in each class were awarded a training bursary, with €250 for first place and €150 for second place. These bursaries provide a great opportunity for riders to continue developing their skills and further their training.
Congratulations to all our prize winners and to every competitor who took part. It was particularly encouraging to see the standard of riding across the classes and the enthusiasm shown by everyone throughout the day.
A sincere thank you also goes to Emerald Equestrian for hosting the final, Shane Brooks for course building, and Michael O’Connor for providing the timing. We would also like to acknowledge all the coaches, regions and volunteers who organised and supported the qualifying events throughout the series. Their time and commitment are what make opportunities like this possible for our members.
Finally, thank you to everyone who supported the Grassroots Jump Training Series this year. We hope all competitors enjoyed the experience and took something valuable away from the day. We look forward to seeing you all again next Year!
