PONY riders witnessed four seasons in one day at the beautiful Castle Irvine Estate last Saturday for the third leg of the Equijump Pony and Children On Horses Spring Tour. Despite the wet and rainy conditions that greeted competitors and spectators alike, the competition remained fierce, with pony riders demonstrating exceptional skills and determination across all classes.
Competition began in the charming Castle Irvine rose garden arena with the highly competitive Under 10s class, where Jack Rush and Dromore Hill Boy claimed a hat-trick victory after winning the last two legs also. Mairead Kate Barry with Ryehall Marble Arch slotted into second place and Ben Hawkins riding Whistletown Blue Belle finished third. Their strong performances set a high standard for the day.
The COH/Junior class showcased bright talent, with Zara-Jane Kelly and Erne River View taking the top spot. Ella Rush secured second place with Beach Buggy, while Chantal Whitehead, riding MHS Cuffesgrange, rounded out the top three.
Luke Sweeney and Orchid’s Atilla emerged victorious in the 148 1.10m class. Megan Louise Rouke and Seapatrick Quality followed closely in second, with Ella Cash and Interniki finishing in third.
Chloe Clarke and Brandon Reepicheep, winners of the 128 1m 2* at Castle Irvine \ Epic Management
Action packed
The action-packed 128 1m 2* class saw Chloe Clarke and Brandon Reepicheep dominate, taking first place. Alice Steele and Zulus Dream secured the second position, while Tim Hawkins and O’B Poppet came in third.
A dead heat - the exact same time of 20.37 in the jump-off for Lily McBride with Poynstown Little Albert Einstein and Eve Morrin with Almighty Alvin meant both of them took the win in the 128cm 90cm. Mia Moloney and Almar Chubba Chubba took third place.
The 148 1.25m jump-off was a thrilling head-to-head battle between two friends. Lucy McCarthy and Gorm claimed victory, just ahead of Zoe Mellett and Victory Day II.
A superb jump-off in the 148 1.20m by these fighting riders, Elizabeth McCracken and Cwmello Champagne Charlie delivered an impressive performance to take first place. Ronan Gilvarry on Glor Tire Cruise cruised to second, while Bonnie Loughrey riding Infinity secured third.
Young riders displayed exceptional talent in the 138 1m 1* class. Alex Maloney took both first and third places with Milchem Ruby and Rogilds Artax, respectively, while Emily McCarthy and Tyrellspass Louis claimed second. Afterwards, Alex told the story of how Milchem Ruby was bought by mistake at Goresbridge and he thanked his coach Micheal Duffy.
Under 10’s podium Jack Rush and Dromore Hill Boy (1st), Mairead Kate Barry and Ryehall Marble Arch and Ben Hawkins with Whistletown Blue Belle at the Equijump Spring Tour at Castle Irvine \ Epic Management
The windy conditions did not deter Ella Rush, who claimed first place with Conazar Jayne in the 138 2*. Julianna Nelson and Dynamo D’euro finished second, while Eunan Kelly and Lurganmore Little Rocket secured third in the final class, where the sun made a beautiful appearance just in time for the prize giving.
The Castle Irvine leg of the Equijump Spring Tour proved to be an exciting day of competition, showcasing the dedication and skill of both riders and their ponies. The event continues to be a highlight of the spring pony calendar, drawing both seasoned competitors and rising stars.
The Equijump Spring Tour will continue to the next venue, Maryville, Co Cork on April 12th, where more thrilling action is anticipated.
Fist pump! Ronan Gilvarry and Glor Tire Cruise finished second in the 1.20m 2* at the Equijump Spring Tour at Castle Irvine \ Epic Management