CO Antrim’s Gemma Goodrich is this year’s recipient of the George Mernagh Memorial Fund bursary.

Gemma, who has been around horses all her life and competes at CCI2* level, is a BHS-accredited professional coach with a great passion for equestrianism and helping others to fulfil their dreams.

She has been working for a decade with Pony Clubs at rallies and camps which has given her a wonderful insight into promoting good horsemanship and riding to children – from the very young to those progressing to Pony and Junior eventing.

At present she is teaching at home, focusing on dressage and show jumping, and will use the bursary to fulfil her dream of making Lisnahilt Equestrian into one of the best training and schooling facilities in Ireland, with cross-country schooling over permanent complexes and portables, and an all-weather gallop facility.

With her plans for improved facilities, Gemma will be able to reach out to more national and international competitors, contributing greatly to their education and to the development of those involved with Irish equestrian sports at all levels.