Name: Lucy Kelly
Age: 16
From: Co Kildare
Base: My horses are based at home in Linacre House Stud.
Parents: James and Lisa Kelly. I am lucky, as both my parents have been involved in the thoroughbred industry for many years, both breeding and racing. Mum’s family have been in the racing industry for generations. Both parents competed in ponies, so their understanding is a great asset to me and they are both so supportive.
School: I attend St Kevin’s, Dunlavin, Co Wicklow and I am currently in fifth year.
When did you start riding?
I started riding when I was two years old and jumped through the pony ranks. I have recently moved into the junior/young rider category and I am really enjoying it.
Who are your trainers?
Anne Marie Dunphy and Aidan Killeen. Both of them are invaluable. Anne Marie teaches me in the flatwork and Aidan in the show jumping.
I think it’s really important to work on both aspects. I am really appreciative of all the help they give me.
What riders do you look up to?
The riders I most look up to are Edwina Tops-Alexander and, closer to home, Jessica Burke.
Who is your greatest influence?
My greatest influence in the horse industry so far would have to be my uncle, Kevin Prendergast.
He is always positive, even if things don’t go as planned and he works very hard, which has been instilled in me.
What has been your most memorable win?
That would have to be the win on a pony Castlefield Zeta in Wales and West.
Most recent win?
My last big win on ponies was the 1.25m pony master qualifier on my pony Expresso Graviere.
Who are your current horses?
MHS Big Sur (Tom) and Fados Napoleon (Jim). Both horses are quite young, but they have plenty of heart and scope. I recently finished fourth in the 1.20m with Tom in Cavan. I have a lot to look forward to with both these animals
What are your future plans?
I would love to have a career involving horses. I hope to do well in the sport and produce some nice young horses and hopefully to qualify for the RDS this year and in the coming years.