AS the excitement builds for the Amateur show jumping championship at this year’s Dublin Horse Show, four fiercely contested qualifiers saw 32 combinations secure a place. From Kernans to Killossery, each round showcased a rising standard and razor-sharp competition, setting the stage for what promises to a thrilling class.

The opening qualifier in early May at Kernans Equestrian delivered fast-paced action from the outset. It was Caroline Gatson (AA) with her own Miss Roman Kora who took the first ticket with the fastest of the triple clears.

A familiar face in the Dublin Horse Show Laura Walsh (AA) booked her place with the very reliable Ballinaguilkey Heritage and she had continued this good form with placings in the Meruve Leinster league in recent weeks. Vicky Curran also booked her place with Rnh Coco Chanel when she took third. Another seasoned combination who secured their place here was Caitlin Duffy (AA) with Jockeyhall Midas Touch.

Other qualifiers from this round include Ashleigh Mooney (A) and Jelo, Carolina Condon with J Silky, Sarah Connolly (AA) on MP Cosmina, and Karen Boylan (A) riding Grc Blue Ice.

At Galway Equestrian, it went down to the wire and three rounds with 10 combinations delivering triple clears, all within 50 seconds. Claiming the win was AA rider Niamh Quinn and Clonguish Vivaro. This talented gelding brings proven experience having previously been campaigned up to Grand Prix level.

Louise Craig also kept the poles in place with Cherry Wine to secure second place. This partnership has continued this good form by claiming the win in the 1.20m in Easkey Gymkhana in June.

AA rider Jody Townend partnered her own eight-year-old, JT Calover Junior to a third place. Produced by the five-time and current champion lady amateur National Hunt jockey, this mare has been very consistent throughout her career.

Notable names to watch from this round include Fergus Lawlor (A) with Parkcross Casper, Roisin Donnelly (AA) aboard Seaforde Rebel, and Alex Butler (A) with Poshes Legacy.

Kate Houlihan (A) and Boss Z kept her eye on the ball and she booked her place with a super display of horsemanship. No stranger to RDS qualifiers, Lisa Doyle (AA) claimed eighth place with Ballinaguilkey Dignified.

First visit

In Tipperary, it was Jennifer Holland (A) and her own Bright who led the lap of honour, qualifying for their first RDS appearance as a pair. Derrick Burke (AA) and Tyreda Chip showed their experience to secure a place, while Joseph Moore (A) will return with Master De Reve for the second year in-a-row.

Jennifer Holland and Ballingowan Melody, winners of the RDS amateur qualifier at Tipperary Equestrian \ Claire Nolan jumpinaction.net

Also securing tickets were Holly Morrissey (AA) on Ad Fundum D’Ersr Z, Alannah Perrin (A) with the six-year-old Liks Florence, and Gwyn Yemm (AA) riding Doonini Z, who alos returns after qualifying in 2024. Rachel McAlinden (AA) with the home-bred Knockash Flexi and Jack Sheedy (A) on DSH Good Feeling, also booked their places with smart rounds.

At the final round in Killossery, it was A category rider Luke Barton and his own 19-year-old Bright who emerged victorious. This combination is quite new with Barton taking over the reins in March this year but they have clearly gelled. There are some very competitive combinations in this round to keep a close eye on. They include Maeve Cotter (AA) and Cloonturk Picasso, Aine O’Gorman (AA) and Dangriga Des Premices Z.

An experienced campaigner in this round and one to watch is Olwyn Alexander (AA) aboard her own Faline. Super performances from Amanda-Jane Comyn (A) with Eirian Gatsby and Liz Keegan Comerford (A) and Edoxtown Cash Cruise saw them secure a ticket.

Other combination who will be looking to take home a championship are Ashlee McGuinness aboard J-Picasso De Maibelle and Lorraine Madden (AA) and MHS One Direction after super performances saw them book their place.

With such a strong and varied line-up of qualified riders and horses, the 2025 Amateur Championship at the Dublin Horse Show is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive and unmissable event.