Catherine Thornton on Millonix winner 5yr old qualifier. Photo John Gibson, Sporting Images NI.co.uk
After three days of exhilarating competition, the equestrian season has kicked off here at Portmore Equestrian Centre. The kinder weather was enjoyed by the large number of competitors over the whole weekend and we’d like to thank each and every competitor, owner and spectator for the support to help us kick off the 2025 show jumping season.
Participants and spectators alike enjoyed a spectacle of skill and sportsmanship, particularly in the coveted Balmoral qualifiers. The high standard of jumping across the board, especially this early in the season is a promising sign of a very competitive and exciting year ahead. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the riders and horses who have successfully earned their places at the prestigious Balmoral Show, scheduled to take place from May 14th to 17th later this year.
The amateur class qualified combinations from 59 entries include 1, Sophie McKeen (A) Pinecroft Kamiro, 2, Naomi McCavana (A) Ferro Charm, 3, Rebekah Tansey (A), Cherished, 4, Grace Carlisle (AA) Something Smart, 5th, Tara Elizabeth Patton AA, Castleroche Pretty Women, 1st Reserve Jason Patterson (AA), Downshire Game of Thrones.
Lucy Morton on Jungfrau Du Thot winner 6-7yr old qualifier. Photo John Gibson Sporting Images NI.co.uk
The Five Year Old Horse qualified combinations from 26 entries include: 1, Catherine Thornton on Millonix, 2, Katie Conlon on MS Epic Leap, 3, Barry Griffin, Newmarket Epic Lady, 4th, Jennifer Torrans, Parrera, 1st reserve Ben Walsh on Kamikaze Z.
The Six & Seven Year Old Handicap qualified combinations from 34 entries include: 1, Lucy Morton, Jungfrau du thot, (6yo) 2, Andrew Farran, Nevada TE (7yo), 3, Barry McCormick, Cazadee (7yo), 4, Hallow Crowe, Nikita (7yo) First reserve Andrew Farran, Oceangold (6yo).
The final qualifier for the weekend was the 1.35pg qualifying class, and from a total of 36 entries, 4 competitors receive qualification status in this class. Our winner from the previous class, also took the win in the 1.35m: 1, Lucy Morton, Cassclo Beach, 2, Harrison Blair, L’Esperit Hero Z, 3, Alex Finney, Absolutely Kingmar Z, 4, Jenny Dunlop, Questro Z, first reserve John McEntee, CSF Andrew.
Photographs from all three days can be purchased from John Gibson at SportingImagesNI.co.uk.
We should also note that John is also running a competition on his website for all orders placed in March and April to go into a draw for a 20 x 16 print!
Wishing all competitors the best of luck in the Balmoral Championships in May!
