Downpours at Shane’s Castle don’t dampen endurance riders’ spirits!
Scenic trails attract numerous horses and riders, as well as a few deer
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ILDRA (Irish Long Distance Riding Association) returned once more to Shane’s Castle, Antrim on Sunday, July 23 for a day of endurance riding with Competitive Trail Rides (CTRs), Vetted Pleasure Rides (VPRs) and Pleasure Rides (PRs) on offer. Despite the wet weather on the day, the numerous riders and horses enjoyed riding around the estate’s trails.
The scenic trails at Shane’s Castle near Lough Neagh offer excellent riding conditions through the forested estate trails and crossing over the River Maine, and having the option to venture into the neighbouring Randalstown Forest Park. Some riders may have even spotted deer running through the estate.
Attending veterinary surgeon, Kara Johnston, BVSc, Cert AYP, MRCVS, was kept busy vetting several CTR and VPR horses. Congratulations go to all riders taking part in these events.
Thanks go to the numerous helpers, stewards and ride organisers involved with running this event, thanks go to the McFarland family, Mary Letch, Kirsten Conly, Ros and Ashley Morcombe, and John Anderson. Thanks also go to the O’Neill family and Shane’s Castle Estate staff for allowing access and to the Forestry Service for allowing access to Randalstown Forest.
ILDRA’s next ride takes place at Scarva Estate near Banbridge, Co. Down featuring only PRs on Sunday, August 13; all entries must be made in advance and online via ILDRA’s website. For further information contact ILDRA’s Facebook page or via ILDRA’s website.
RESULTS
CTR 40km (25 miles):
Helen McFarland, Chalima de Gueyte.
CTR 32km (20 miles):
Sarah Morcombe, In Our Blood; Roseanna Andrews, Simply Red, Susan Hunter, Colour Cascade.
VPR 16km (10 miles):
Emma Hayes, Yasser Arafat.