Summer Derby fun at Lusk’s

SUNDAY, June 19 was the date for a Summer Derby at Lusk Equestrian Centre. The classes were 1m, 85cm and 70cm over the full course of 17 fences, including three doubles and two trebles. Lusk’s also introduced a 40cm class for beginners over a shortened 12-fence course, which could be assisted if necessary.

As in the Hickstead Derby, clear rounds were hard to come by – in the metre class, only one combination jumped clear and within the time, Sam Hamilton on ‘Cahanagh Black Flyer’, who claimed the first prize.

In the 85cm class, there were two clear rounds – Jonny Steele on ‘Spitfire’ and Co. Down vet Terry Smyth on ‘Buddy Holly’. Jonny and ‘Spitfire’ were quicker in the jump off over the shortened course of six fences to claim the red rosette.

In the 70cm class, there were five clear rounds and it was Emma Jackson who showed her class to take first and second prizes, with ‘Archie’ and ‘Digger’ respectively.

The 40cm class was great for beginners; two were assisted by their parents and there were also some mature riders, who just wanted to have fun! It proved to be a great class, with everyone getting the opportunity to compete in the jump off. The top spot was claimed by Vivienne Andrews on ‘Sarah’s Pebbles’.

Lusk’s take a break until the end of July, when they plan to run a show on grass, incorporating Working Hunter and showing to help the Ulster riders prepare for the Dublin Horse Show.

The Derby course will remain open for a week for training.

Thanks to all the helpers, who gave up their time to assist and provide sport throughout the Spring season.

RESULTS

Sunday, June 19

Summer Derby

Class 1 – 1m: 1) Sam Hamilton, Cahanagh Black Flyer; 2) Leo Pele, Rusty; 3) Chloe Lister-Tinsley, Ruby; 4) Cara MacNabb, Killone Leo; 5) Katie Parker, May; 6) Jonny Steele, Hanson.

Class 2 – 85cm: 1) Jonny Steele, Spitfire; 2) Terry Smyth, Buddy Holly; 3) Zara Reid, Kingsman Dave; 4) Christopher McCartan, Melody; 5) Helen Faulkner, Derrivane Danny; 6) Leah Knight, Hugo.

Class 3 – 70cm: 1) Emma Jackson, Archie; 2) Emma Jackson, Digger; 3) Meabh Schible, Fleur; 4) Abbie Cummins, Cassie; 5) Karen Connolly, Ollie; 6) Clare Steele, JB.

Class 4 – 40cm: 1) Vivienne Andrews, Sarah’s Pebbles; 2) Rachel Kernaghan, Scarborough Fair; 3) Ula McCaffery, Echo; 4) Emily Adamson, Cara; 5) Dara Currie, Sparkling Desert Gold; 6) William Steele, Tootsie.