The AIRC South East Connolly’s RED MILLS National Dressage Championship Qualifier took place at the picturesque grounds of Tinahely Riding Club, Coolboy, on Sunday, 26th July. The AIRC South East Region extends its sincere thanks to Tinahely Riding Club for hosting the event, along with the many volunteers, scribes and judges – Bridgette McCarthy, Eithne Kelly and Sarah-Jane Doyle – whose hard work ensured a successful and enjoyable day.
With over 80 dressage tests completed, competition was fierce across both the team and individual classes.
Team Results
Fresh from success at the National Show Jumping Championships, Warrington Riding Club claimed the team title with Marie Louise Nolan (June Flight), Anne McGrath (Mananagh Heather), Claire Coonan (Lamogue Lady) and Françoise Foley-Fisher (Ragtime Lady), finishing on 422.86%. They now qualify for the AIRC National Dressage Championships in Mullingar on 30th August.
Barrow Valley Blue finished second (419.03%), followed by Thomastown & District 1 in third (417.35%). Barrow Valley Reds, Tinahely and Thomastown & District 2 completed the top six.
Individual Winners
- RCP1: Cheryl Keogh & Hudson Bay Lass (Kilcarrick) – 66.96%
- RCP2: Aoife Murphy & Sailors Hill (Horetown) – 72.11%
- RCP3: Fidelma Curran & Ballyadam Philip (Waterford) – 71.90%
- RCN: Melanie Hammel & Taylor Dandy (Carne) – 73.60% (highest score of the day)
- RCE: Rita Naughton & Actions Bond Girl W (Tinahely) – 67.72%
Congratulations to all competitors, volunteers and supporters who contributed to another fantastic day of dressage. Best of luck to everyone who qualified for the AIRC National Dressage Championships.
You can find a list of qualified riders and horses at this link – https://airc.ie/airc-ndc-2026/
