AMATEUR riders are no strangers to the RDS main arena, but this year proved a bit different as all the qualified riders got their chance to experience the spectacular arena over the Alan Wade-designed course.

In total, 31 combinations lined out on Saturday, bidding for the coveted title. Eventually it was third rider in, Gillian Blanche (A), riding Bellegrove Prima Donna, who was crowned Amateur Champion when she galloped home clear in 42.07 seconds.