Class 1 winners Molly Smith and Doodle Dandy
Unveiling a brand new set of portable cross-country fences, a fantastic two-phase event took place at Lessans Riding Stables, Saintfield, last Sunday 29 June. Crowds gathered early to check out the new course, which crossed three rolling fields, and were blessed with brilliant weather for their efforts. Competitors completed a round of 13 show-jumps before taking on a further 14 cross-country fences, many of which were adorned with super-scary images of the local wildlife, including pheasants, pigs and, er… dachshunds…!
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Entries for the novice Class 1 were immediately whittled down by the testing new course, a series of stops and falls resulting in just two finishers – both of whom jumped double clear rounds, to their credit. Marginally closer to the optimum time and therefore awarded the red rosette was Molly Smith and Doodle Dandy, with last week’s derby winners Claire Dobbin and Louie nipping at their heels.
Class 2 winners Victoria Wray and Uncle Ben
A large field for the intermediate Class 2 also saw its fair share of issues, as well as a near photo-finish between winner Victoria Wray and Uncle Ben, and runner-up Amber Walsh with Bob. Also in close contention was third place combination Malachy Casement and Balloo – just one of three rides Malachy saw success with on the day.
In the final open Class 3, the brave and the bold stepped to the fore with a well-deserved victory going to Lessans livery Hannah Younger and her lovely palomino gelding Romeo. Not only was Hannah very fast, but she also managed the only double clear round of the class, with everyone else accruing faults around Philippa Auret and David Wightman’s tricky track. Clearly a perfect partnership for this talented horse and rider!
Once again, proprietor Philippa would like to congratulate everyone who took part and thank all those who volunteered their time to make the day such an enjoyable event. Next up is a slightly more chilled-out summer hack and banquet supper, which takes place from 2pm next Sunday 6 July. Horses are available for hire and advance booking is essential. For more information or to take part, contact Philippa on 07808923894.
Class 3 winners Hannah Younger and Romeo
Two-phase Results:
Class 1 (50-60cm)
1 Molly Smith, Doodle Dandy; 2 Claire Dobbin, Louie
Class 2 (70-80cm)
1 Victoria Wray, Uncle Ben; 2 Amber Walsh, Bob; 3 Malachy Casement, Balloo; 4 Malachy Casement, Bing; 5 Jordan Drain, Flame; 6 Malachy Casement, Hera; 7 David Wightman, Ellie; 8 Joshua Russell, Lisbane Whiskey
Class 3 (80-90cm)
1 Hannah Younger, Romeo; 2 Molly McCluskey, Archie; 3 Jordan Drain, Flame; 4 Jennifer Griffin, Beau; 5 Anna Shaw, Major Luke
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Category: Eventing, News, Results, Show Jumping