OWER Equestrian Centre ran their TRI Equestrian Interschools event in the west last weekend and it attracted an enthusiastic turnout of riders and supporters.

The EII 80cm Novice Teams’ competition proved to be a highlight of the day, with an exciting jump-off deciding the final placings. First time teams Coláiste Baile Chláir and Gort Community School battled for third and fourth places, with Gort Community School securing third thanks to a double clear round from Rockstown T, ridden by Callum Cummins.

The contest for first place saw two experienced schools, St Paul’s Secondary School, Oughterard and Clifden Community School, go head-to-head. St Pauls’ nominated jump-off rider, Cliona Foley riding Dusty, produced an excellent clear round in a time of 35.38. However, Clifden Community School’s Erin O’Neill and Beola Boy went clear in 32.19 to claim victory for Clifden Community School for another year.

In the EII 70cm Primary League Individual class, there was a strong family connection as siblings Oran Cummins and Amber Cummins, representing Lurga National School, took first and second places respectively. Oran rode Rockstown T to victory, while Amber partnered Our Woodford Rebel to secure second place.

Honor Mannion, representing Gort Community College and riding College Rose, won the EII 80cm Novice Individual class in a time of 24.77. Local rider representing St Paul’s Secondary School, Oughterard, Dara Kennedy and Buddy won the EII Equieire Individual Qualifier. Sarah Jane Tarpey and She Lux Quality from Colaiste Baile Chláir was second. Ella Heraty, Eva Connell, Rebecca Maher and Abel Yebenes Esdalona were also in the ribbons.

Amber Tobin from St Raphael’s College proved unstoppable in the TRI Equestrian Open Individual class, taking both first and second places with Harry Finn and Rivers Edge Rocket. Ava Joyce from Taylor’s Hill riding Virginia Jess was third.

Her success continued in the TRI Equestrian Premier Qualifier, where she partnered Rivers Edge Rocket to a double clear round and first position. She also qualified her other horse, Harry Finn.

Action this weekend moves to the midlands, with Mullingar Equestrian as hosts.