Under scorching sunshine and high anticipation, the West Midlands Region hosted its Premier Performance Team Show Jumping Championship Regional Qualifier on Sunday, 11th May 2025, at the stunning Roscrea Equestrian Centre. With 11 teams representing 7 clubs, the competition was a thrilling showcase of teamwork, determination, and exceptional horsemanship.
The first round saw Mill Road Red and Sarsfield Riding Club emerge faultless, putting them in strong contention, while Mill Road Elderberries and Borus kept the pressure on with just 4 faults apiece.
In round two, the tension mounted. Mill Road Elderberries (Fran Denny, Kelley Ann Byrne, Megan Sheedy, Jennifer Denny) brought past experience with three years of prior qualifications, but only Fran managed a clear round. The team ultimately secured 4th place. Mill Road Red’s flawless first round couldn’t be matched in the second, resulting in 3rd place overall for Joanna Lewis, Carly Walsh, Sara Kerwick, and Emma Meagher.
Sarsfield’s team of Lisa Wallace, Janet Clifford, Victoria McMahon, and Martha Naughton encountered heartbreak when Lisa had to retire in the second round. They ended the day on 8 faults, landing them in a jump-off against Borus. Janet Clifford (Gleesons Quality) deserves a special mention for producing a beautiful double clear for Sarsfeild.
The jump-off was tense and tactical. Aoife Lynch of Borus rode a safe, clear round— a calculated decision that paid off, securing victory for Borus and crowning them Regional Champions.
Sarsfield, although narrowly missing the title, took a well-earned second place, which grants them a place in the Wild Card competition at the Riding Club Festival.
It was particularly heartening to see Borus, a small but dedicated club, take the win. Known across the region for consistently supporting events run by other clubs, their victory was well- deserved and widely applauded.
A huge thank you to Tony Ennis, course builder, for creating a challenging yet fair track, our Judges on the day Tony and Emily Hogan for their professionalism, David Maher, for the generous use of his top-class facilities at Roscrea Equestrian Centre, The volunteers from across various clubs, whose efforts made the day run smoothly, And our valued sponsor, Premier Performance, for their continued support of regional equestrian sport.
With strong performances, positive spirit, and rising temperatures—this event was a true credit to the region and a testament to the strength of Riding Club show jumping.
Best of luck to Borus and Sarsfield as they go on to represent the West Midlands Region at the Riding Club Festival!
Written by: Samantha Hayes
