IN the words of course designer Ray Doyle ‘Blackstairs is back with a bang’ and indeed for the eventing fraternity, there was no better place to kick off the new campaign than at Ger O’Connor’s picturesque farm last Saturday.

With its mountainous backdrop, the venue looked wonderful in a day of glorious sunshine, and most importantly the ground, which had been a contentious issue 12 months ago, was reported to be very good.

“It was a complete turnaround from last year,” stated Doyle. “We knew it could not happen again, so we took on board some constructive criticism from Michael Ryan and Sam Watson, we learned our lesson and the success of yesterday was proof of that.”

Certainly, the goodwill towards the venue is immense. The terrain allows for some real galloping, challenging courses and Saturday’s competitive action delivered in spades.

“We had just under 200 entries and expect the same if not more next weekend,” added Doyle. “Of course, all this couldn’t happen without the enormous support from the Ballingore Hunt, as well as the often-forgotten band of volunteers and to them we are so grateful.”

Doyle who, aside from his course designing duties, also acts as co-organiser with Rose Cummins was at the helm for the 1.10m tracks, while assisting him for the first time in the EI 100 and EI 90 sectors was Pat Dickson. Danny Dulohery oversaw the feature EI 115 tracks, deputising for Dereck Hamilton, who was en route home from similar designing duties for the forthcoming Asian Games in China.

The event also marked the launch of the innovative Treo Eile league for thoroughbreds. With an end of season purse of €2,000 purse and €1,000 to the winner, points are up for grabs for both placings and double clear rounds. As a result two riders opened their accounts at Blackstairs, with fifth placings going to Jackie Barden’s Loughnavalley, and Amy Potter’s Tatton Cross.