AHEAD of the Dressage Ireland National Championships in September, Leinster Dressage will be offering the perfect preparation for horses and riders over the weekend of August 10th and 11th.

On the Saturday, the Region will hold a show at the National Sports Horse Arena where, among the judges will be Richard Baldwin (British Dressage List 1). Earlier this year, Baldwin completed the FEI transfer up course and exam, which led to him achieving FEI Level 2/3* status.

On the Sunday, at the same venue, Leinster Dressage will hold a test and train clinic with Baldwin and Dressage Ireland List 4 judge Jean Halpenny, who is also a Horse Sport Ireland-accredited coach. Riders will perform a test and immediately receive feedback via discussion with the judge. It’s the perfect way to receive and implement feedback ahead of the National Championships and to learn how to maximise marks.

Baldwin will test and train riders from Medium to Grand Prix. He has explained previously in media interviews how riders often accidentally throw away marks in tests – marks that judges would happily award if they could. This clinic will allow him to assist riders gain as many valuable marks as they can.

Halpenny will test and train riders from Preliminary to Elementary level. Known for her clear and friendly approach, and her focus on good basic riding, Jean will help riders understand and execute key movements for better marks.

Test and train sessions will last 20 minutes and cost €40. Places will be limited to 18 per judge and will be sold on a first come, first served basis. Places will be first offered to registered Leinster Dressage members aged 16 upwards and will be opened to other regions if spaces remain.