Storm Bert fails to stop dressage at Lusk’s

Lisburn venue goes ahead with dressage league with no sign of wind or rain

Storm Bert blew in at the weekend, with hurricane winds and flooding everywhere, but fortunately the sun shone on Sunday at Lusk Equestrian, with the arenas in great condition and no sign of wind or rain.

Sophie Morrison, competing in her first dressage competition on her new horse, ‘Jessie’, came fourth in Class 1 Walk/Trot to take home a green rosette, as well as some pointers from the judge for improvement next week.

Clare Steele winning the Novice class on Ballarina at week three of Lusk’s dressage league. PICTURES: courtesy of Ellie Johnston

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‘Ballarina’ had a busy and successful day, placing first for Hannah Bayfield in the Newcomers’ class and then winning the Novice section for Clare Steele. Chloe Rooney, who has been in the placings each week, was again in the prizes with ‘Markey’ and ‘Toast’.

Anita Doherty and ‘Goldiva’ gave a polished display to win the Elementary class.

There is great excitement for the final week of dressage to include Pony Club qualifiers, which Sarah Whiteside has again organised for all near and far, hopefully all enjoying the competitions.

Jack Steele and ‘Scooby’ took second place in Class 1 at week three of Lusk’s dressage league.

Thanks again to all the judges, who came to judge at Lusk’s - this week it was Fiona Young and Fiona Morrow, who finished the day with lunch in the White Horse Cafe.

Don’t forget the Equestrian and general Car Boot Sale in the indoor arena starting at 11am next Sunday. There will also be Christmas and gift stalls, so come and do your Christmas shopping!

It is all in aid of RDA, who come to Lusk’s three times a week, with all the voluntary helpers. Also thanks to Denise Neil for her kindness and help, who provides the ponies.

RESULTS

Lusk Equestrian

Dressage League - week 3

Class 1 - Walk/Trot:

1) Sarah Gilchrist, Susie; 2) Jack Steele, Scooby; 3) Orla Dunne, Ruby; 4) Sophie Morrison, Jessie; 5) Orla Hamill, Benji.

Orla Dunne and ‘Ruby’ were third in Class 1 Walk-Trot at week three of Lusk’s dressage league.

Class 2 - Newcomers Prelim:

1) Hannah Bayfield, Ballarina; 2) Meave Linehan, Ballyfrawley Ross; 3) Lily Murphy, Coda; 4) Caiomhe O’Hare, Miss Mourne; 5) Eva Kennedy, Darcy.

Caoimhe O’Hare and ‘Miss Mourne’ placed fourth in their first ever dressage test in the Newcomers Prelim at week three of Lusk’s dressage league.

Class 3 - Prelim:

1) Natasha Geary, Coolfinn Vivendi; 2) Chloe Rooney, Markey; 3) Georgia Linehan, Karma is my middle name; 4) Rachel Fletcher, Spice; 5) Chloe Rooney, Toast.

Chloe Rooney riding ‘Markey’ to second place in the Prelim class at week three of Lusk’s dressage league.

Class 4 - Novice:

1) Clare Steele, Ballarina; 2) Andrew Greer, Poppy; 3) Ciarrai Rice, Lady J; 4) Aimee Webb, Nala; 5) Clare Steele, Marvel.

Class 5 - Elementary:

1) Anita Doherty, Goldiva; 2) Andrew Greer, Poppy; 3) Jacqui Porter, Clara.

Anita Doherty and ‘Goldiva’ winning the Elementary class at week three of Lusk’s dressage league.