OVER 500 competitors, owners, breeders, supporters, landowners and sponsors converged on the La Mon House Hotel last Saturday for the Northern Region of Eventing Ireland (EI) annual awards’ ball while there were many others disappointed not to have acquired a ticket for this night of style and celebration.

Georgia Stubington, chairman of EI, presented the awards and it was little surprise to hear Steven Smith being announced as leading rider of the season having accumulated most points at Northern Region events. The Gilford competitor displayed great determination during the year as he was racked with pain from sciatica.