Springtime riding for ILDRA at Castle Ward and Baronscourt Estates

From Co Down to Co Tyrone, riders enjoy the wonderful surroundings of these estates

ILDRA (Irish Long Distance Riding Association) held two springtime rides in March. The first took place at Castle Ward Estate on Sunday, March 10 near Strangford. Despite some damp and overcast weather on the day, the attending riders enjoyed the varied Hoof Trail route available at this National Trust property, which takes in a variety of views of the nearby Mourne Mountains, winding forests paths and the peaceful shores of Strangford Lough.

Keri Black and ‘Pascal’ completed their first vetted pleasure ride at Baronscourt.

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Keen-eyed riders may have also spotted some famous locations from well-known TV programmes. Thanks go to the National Trust for allowing access to Castle Ward and to the Hayes family for organising the ride.

Pleasure riders enjoying their ride at CastleWard with ILDRA.

ILDRA’s second March ride took place at Baronscourt Estate near Omagh on Sunday, March 24 featuring pleasure rides (PRs), vetted pleasure rides (VPRs) and competitive trail rides (CTRs). Attending veterinary surgeon, Catriona Thorton MRCVS, was kept busy with several riders taking part in a vetted ride.

Congratulations go to Keri Black on ‘Pascal’ for completing her first VPR with ILDRA!

Pleasure riders returning from their ride at Baronscourt Estate.

All riders enjoyed the trails on offer at Baronscourt, which take in the stunning scenery including nearby mountains and the sprawling lakes of the Estate.

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 Annemie Daly being the lucky winner of the prize at Baronscourt.

A pleasure rider makes the most of the Baronscourt Estate buildings as a backdrop.

Thanks go to the Duke of Abercorn and Baronscourt Estate Staff for allowing access to Baronscourt. Thanks also go to Kirsten Conly, John Anderson and Ros and Ashley Morcombe for marking and organising the ride on the day.

ILDRA’s next ride takes place at Shane’s Castle near Antrim on Sunday, April 7, 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, March 24

Baronscourt

CTR 48 km (30 miles):

Susan Hunter, Colour Cascade; Helen McFarland, Chalima de Gueyte; Bree Rutledge, Clovermount Rhinestone.

CTR 40km (25 miles):

Lucy Webb, Moonshine; Anna Mulholland, Artie.

VPR 24 km (15 miles):

Emma Hayes, Almaz’ Asham; Keri Black, Pascal.

Through the ears of ‘Colour Cascade’ beside CTR rider Helen McFarland on ‘Chalima de Gueyte’ at Baronscourt Estate.