The West Midlands Region hosted the Connolly’s Red Mills Regional Dressage Qualifier on Sunday, 27th July at Roscrea Equestrian Centre. Conditions were dry, albeit a little humid, and the day unfolded in a relaxed and well-organised manner. As one of the final opportunities to qualify for the Connolly’s RED MILLS National Dressage Championships in Mullingar on 17th August, anticipation and competition levels were high.
This qualifier recorded the highest number of entries post-Covid, with competitors travelling from across the country. Clubs from outside the region included Cheval, Annaharvey, Cill Dara, Thomastown and District, Waterford, Castle Carrig, Burren, Warrington, and Nuenna Farm.
Thomastown and District Riding Club fielded four riders. Yvonne Hoban (Aghalona Popit) and Lindsay Newitt (Ballinglen Dreamer) set a high standard early in the day in the RC P2 Qualifier, earning the top two scores on the day, with impressive first tests. Megan Delaney of Friary RC, riding Sushi Warrior, showcased consistency as the key to success, taking the win in the RC P3 Qualifier. Burren’s Catherine Kelly, a familiar face at Roscrea, had a successful day out, winning the
RC Novice Qualifier—making the journey home all the sweeter. Alongside the qualifiers, open classes provided an excellent opportunity for members returning from a break to get back into competition. Arderin’s Fiona Scott made her riding club debut in the Intro class aboard Tower Girl, securing 3rd place—an admirable personal achievement. She was joined by teammate Caitriona Stuart, who also earned a placing in the RC P2 Open class.
Thomastown’s Sinead Codd had a full schedule, competing two horses—My Silver Arrow and IHWT Hero—with IHWT Hero taking the win in the RC Novice Open class. Golden Grove RC, based at Roscrea Equestrian Centre, had strong representation both in the saddle and behind the scenes, assisting with test calling and event support. New member Kayleigh Murphy made an impressive start to her riding club journey by winning the Intro class on her new mare, You Too Bonnie.
The team qualifier was hotly contested, with several clubs fielding strong combinations. Three Counties RC made a welcome return to the scene. Doreen Egan led the charge with the team’s best score, helping them to secure 3rd place. Sarsfield RC, now in their second year, continued to impress. After a strong showing at the Region’s Team Show Jumping Qualifier in May, they placed 2nd in the team dressage, with standout performances from Claire McCarthy. However, it was Twinfort RC who stole the show. Under the watchful eye of Donie McNamara, the team of Owen Smyth, Tara Dalton, and Ann Glynn delivered yet another winning performance, continuing their remarkable run of success.
The updated Qualified Rider & Horse Combinations can be found at this link.
Written by: Samantha Hayes
