THE heightened competition in this year’s amateur qualifiers suggests the championships will be thrilling. Historically, the standard in the amateur ranks has steadily risen, but this year, securing a spot at Dublin required participants to deliver three double clears and demonstrate speed in the jump-off. As expected, the first round of the Amateur Qualifiers at Tipperary Equestrian was highly competitive, with participants eager to secure their place early. Out of 131 entrants, 26 progressed to the jump-off, where the top eight riders clocked in under 35 seconds, underscoring the intense level of competition.

AA rider Kyle McLaughlin and his horse Fernanda 22 claimed the first ticket. They edged out Dublin rider Laura Clinton (A) on Furore 5 by only half a second. This will be Laura Clinton and Furore 5’s first appearance at Dublin, though they have been a formidable pair at this level over the past year.

AA rider Roisin Donnelly and Ballinamurra Eargon showcased their speed and agility, making them strong contenders if they reach the final.

Caroline Gaston and her seven-year-old Miss Roman Kora also secured their spot. This duo placed sixth in the Amateur Grand Prix at the Cavan Amateur Championships last September, proving they can handle high-pressure situations. Other combinations with a solid chance include Liam Hennessy on Leanorth Grey Matter and Edel Kelly with Agustina.

Rebecca Vaughan (A) on Guidam Clover and Kate Houlihan (A) on Wonder S have demonstrated exceptional talent against the clock, making them serious contenders in time-sensitive rounds.

At the Killossery qualifier, Val Ward (A) and her seasoned gelding, Venture, clinched the first ticket with a blistering time and the fastest of 13 double clears. This pair’s impressive record, including winning the Welcome Stakes and Power and Speed at last year’s Cavan Amateur 2 Day Championships, suggests they will deliver an excellent performance at the Dublin Horse Show.

Ashley O’Sullivan (A) and Dowdstown Quality also showcased their competitiveness, narrowly missing out on the win. Hannah Houlihan (AA) and Fantastic C, staying within the 30-second mark, proved speed is not an issue. Rebecca Browne (AA) on Diamonds And Rust and Karen Boylan (A) on Pinegro Aro put in strong efforts and will be contenders in the championships. Speed specialists Gwyn Yemm (AA) with Donnini Z and Sarah Connolly (AA) with MP Cosmina, along with Amy McLaughlin (A) on Rhonda, are also ones to watch.

Colm Fitzpatrick and Maretto pictured at Cavan, are a pair to watch at Dublin \ Laurence Dunne jumpinaction.net

Kernans

At the penultimate round in Kernans, claiming the first ticket was AA category rider Colm Fitzpatrick aboard Maretto Flight.

Fitzpatrick is no stranger to success in the amateur arena with a host of good results. Last year riding Maretto Flight he won the SJI Cavan Autumn Series final in Cavan. Last year they qualified for both Balmoral and the Dublin Horse Show. This year they also qualified for the amateur championship in Balmoral.

Caroline Ryan took the runner-up spot with Marlow ELJ, owned by Michael Murphy. They were narrowly defeated but remain a formidable combination in this category.

Young rider Megan Nelson (A) and Fancy Trend were less than a second behind and will have no problem making up any time if they proceed to the final. This pairing qualified last year for the Dublin Horse Show, but failed to make the final championship. This year could be their year.

The very experienced Danielle Logan (A) answered all the questions aboard Demero. This combination is well used to this pressure, having won the Balmoral Amateur Championship in 2023.

No stranger to the Dublin Horse Show, Gemma Drennan booked her place with her own Cool Finesse. This combination finished eighth last year in the championship and have what it takes to improve on this performance. Cork rider Lisa Hitchmough (AA) qualified with Manija and will also be aiming for a spot in the final. Additionally, Donegal rider Egle Zakaraite (A) on Talbot Siss and Joseph Moore (A) on Master De Reve are expected to be highly competitive if they reach the final.

Tara Brandon on Ice Cream VDT are Dublin bound \ Ballynagran Photography

Galway

The last qualifier in Galway Equestrian was nail biting with 11 triple clears. One to watch is Leonie Dunne (A) and Cavalino 26. Placed sixth last year, Lorraine MacGuinness will make her return to the very talented Horseware Kinmar Night. Another familiar face is Sheikh Samir and he will be looking to take the title with Mirdads Soooraaat Alrahmaaan. Reserve champion last year, Catriona Cody, will be looking to go one better as she secured her place with Shanroe Socialite.

One combination that can’t be dismissed is Caitlin Duffy and Jockeyhall Midas Touch who put in a great performance last year in Simmonscourt and narrowly missed out on a place in the final. Two very competitive combinations are Tara Brandon (Ice Cream VDT) and Olwyn Alexander (Faline). With such a diverse and skilled lineup, the Dublin Horse Show promises to be an exhilarating event.