St. Patrick's Coast Ride fast approaching
Entries open for ILDRA's flagship event
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St. Patrick’s Coast Ride is the Irish Long Distance Riding Association (ILDRA)'s flagship event and is unique on the island of Ireland in so many ways… It is one ride that is not to be missed!
This year’s ride is being held on Saturday, September 2 and entries are currently OPEN to both ILDRA members and non-members. The ride starts and finishes at Downpatrick Racecourse - please remember that all horses and ponies must be fully vaccinated to access the racecourse. No vaccination, no entry.
Please, if you can, also support the Farmers’ and Prize giving dinner on the Saturday night - tickets are available with entry. It is great ‘craic’ and a good way to say thank you to the farmers and stewards!
Organisers are also asking ALL riders to consider making a small voluntary donation towards paying for the Stewards’ and Farmers’ hospitality. Unfortunately, the sponsorship for that has been lost this year and organisers hope that everyone appreciates the co-operation of the farmers and stewards enough to make a small donation with their entry.
A lot of hard work goes into this ride. A team of volunteers have been out over the past couple of weeks preparing the route - cleaning the beach at Tyrella, as well as clearing lanes for access. This work will continue this coming weekend, on Saturday and Sunday, August 19 and 20. If you are able to help to get the route ready, please make contact via the St. Patricks Coast Ride Facebook page for details of where to meet. If you have a strimmer, please bring it with you! Your assistance would be much appreciated.
Organisers are still short of a vet for the day - if you are a vet, or if you know a vet, who would be available and be able to help, please put them in touch (organisers do pay a retainer).
Organisers also need some rubber stable/ cattle mats to lay over some newly drained ground on the course. If you, or again anyone you know, has any not currently being used, please get in touch. Organisers should be able to collect and return them, if necessary.
The weather can’t be guaranteed, but sunny or not, it will still be beautiful!
Don't miss out this year - get your entry in now to secure your place! Entries may be placed online here.