Baronscourt in full bloom for ILDRA Endurance Ride
Riders enjoy stunning trails in the scenic Newtownstewart countryside
ILDRA (Irish Long Distance Riding Association) returned to Baronscourt Estate near Omagh on Sunday, May 26 for their second event this year, with pleasure rides (PRs), vetted pleasure rides (VPRs) and competitive trail rides (CTRs) on offer.
Located outside Newtownstewart, the Baronscourt Estate has stunning trails taking in the scenic landscape in the foothills of the Sperrins. Woodland trails, lakeside sections and spectacular rhododendron plants are all part of the riding trails, with the Estate being a much-loved venue by many a rider.
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The attending veterinary surgeon, Catriona Thornton MRCVS, was kept busy with several riders taking part in vetted rides. Congratulations go to Keri Black on ‘Pascal’ for completing her first CTR with ILDRA, with both horse and rider gaining their Bronze Qualifier Award as the first step towards completing their Bronze Shamrock in endurance.
The Shamrock Award system in ILDRA allows horse and rider to safely progress up through the grades of endurance gaining knowledge and fitness as they advance.
Thanks go to Judy Maxwell of Bailey’s Horse Feeds for sponsoring a bag of horse feed for each of ILDRA’s ride events, with the lucky rider having their entry number drawn out and being presented at the ride. Well done to the winners so far, with Susan Hunter being the lucky winner of the prize at Baronscourt.
Thanks go to the ride organiser, Kirsten Conly, assisted by John Anderson and Ros Morcombe for marking and running the ride on the day. Thanks also go to the Duke of Abercorn and Baronscourt Estate staff for allowing access to this stunning venue.
ILDRA’s next ride takes place at Shane’s Castle near Antrim on Sunday, July 21, offering pleasure rides, vetted pleasure rides and competitive trail rides. All entries must be made in advance and online via ILDRA’s website, for further information contact ILDRA’s Facebook page.
RESULTS
Sunday, May 26
Baronscourt
CTR 48km (30 miles):
Susan Hunter, Colour Cascade; Roseanna Andrews, Puzzle Piece.
CTR 32km (20 miles):
Keri Black, Pascal.
VPR 32km (20 miles):
Emma Hayes, Almaz’ Asham.