AS The Irish Field covers both racing and equestrian sports we are always keen to write about a combination of both which is why we were pleased to learn that 20 members of the Westmeath Hunt Branch of the Irish Pony Club recently spent a day at Kilbeggan racecourse. Claire Brogan, the Branch’s District Commissioner, gave us a brief outline of the visit.

“We had two instructors, Louise Kennedy and Isobel Tunney, who were assisted by Pat Whyte. The last named, whose grandson Tommy Healy was one of the members taking part, was mounted on his trusted hunter.

“The day kicked off with a talk on the history of the track from racecourse manager Stephen Heffernan who then gave us a tour of the facilities. After that former jockey-turned-trainer Andrew McNamara gave an inspiring insight into the day in the life of a jockey on race day.

“The members then got to have their own experience. They each got silks or brought their own, a number cloth, then weighed in, tacked up and mounted in the parade ring, before finally heading out onto the track in small groups and had lots of fun.

“We finished off the day with a BBQ for the members and families. Parents, grandparents and siblings all came along to support them. It was a fab day!”