Baronscourt’s beautiful blooms grace ILDRA’s Endurance Ride
Newtownstewart venue offers stunning views of Co Tyrone landscape
ILDRA (Irish Long Distance Riding Association) headed to the north-west of Northern Ireland to the popular and scenic venue of Baronscourt Estate, located outside Newtownstewart, near Omagh on Sunday, May 11. Nestled in the foothills of the Sperrins, the ride takes in stunning views of the County Tyrone landscape across mountains, valleys, forested areas and the impressive lakes of the Baronscourt Estate.
A variety of beautiful plants, including rhododendrons, were in full bloom and impressive in the sunshine of the day. With Competitive Trail Rides (CTRs), Vetted Pleasure Rides (VPRs) and Pleasure Rides (PRs) available on the day, there was something to cater for every rider’s fancy.
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The attending veterinary surgeon, Catriona Thornton MRCVS, was kept busy with several riders taking part in a vetted ride. Despite the hot weather conditions on the day, all horses passed their respective vettings, paying testament to the careful conditioning and fitness work involved in training and preparing to take part in endurance. Many horses competing at endurance also take part in other disciplines, such as dressage, jumping or eventing.
The steady and consistent riding, typically between trot and canter, dependent on ground conditions, develops excellent stamina within horses, as well as promoting the long-term conditioning of bones, tendons and ligaments.
Some lucky riders on the day benefitted from Judy Maxwell from Bailey’s Horse Feeds’s kind donation of several bags of Tasty Treats to be handed out as spot prizes by the ride organisation team. Thanks go to Judy and Bailey’s Horse Feeds for their continued support at ILDRA rides and events over the years.
Thanks go to the Baronscourt Estate Staff and the Duke of Abercorn for allowing access to Baronscourt. Thanks also go to Kirsten Conly and John Anderson for organising and running the ride on the day.
ILDRA’s next ride takes place at Clandeboye Estate near Bangor on Saturday, May 31, in aid of Air Ambulance NI, a worthy organisation which is deserving of support. All entries must be made in advance and online using ILDRA’s website, for further information please contact ILDRA’s Facebook page.
RESULTS
Sunday, May 11
ILDRA ride at Baronscourt
32km (20 miles) CTR:
Helen McFarland, Chalima de Gueyte; Bree Rutledge, Clovermount Rhinestone; Roseanna Andrews, Puzzle Piece; Keri Black, Pascal; Hannah Wilding, NWF Financial Bouncer.
32km (20 miles) VPR:
Emma Hayes, Almaz’ Asham.