THE Eastern Region of Dressage Ireland gathered in the Chester Beattie Inn last Wednesday for their annual AGM and awards ceremony.

The group enjoyed a delicious meal before getting down to business for the annual general meeting. Gillian Kyle chaired the meeting and opened on a positive note, by thanking her hard working committee for all of their efforts in 2017.

The region enjoyed a very successful year with 15 shows spanning out over the course of 12 months. This was followed by acknowledging the riders within the region who competed successfully both nationally and internationally. The region is already planning big things for the year ahead.

Following the AGM, the awards kicked off with the Junior Trailblazer of 2017, sponsored by Orchard Equestrian, won by Joanna Griffin. The senior trailblazer of 2017 trophy was awarded to Tara Barrett who is sponsored by Rhinestone Equestrian.

The Paulank Sport Horses-sponsored leading new rider of 2017 title was given to Rebecca Payne, while the Eastern Region novice trophy, sponsored by Louise Larkin Physiotherapy, was awarded to Sandra Darragh.

Laura Hall won the ‘Kejser’ Elementary trophy 2017, sponsored by Posh Cakes. The Advanced Trophy winner was Karen Bennett, sponsored by the Eastern Region. Last but not least, the Leading Rider from the Eastern Region 2017 was Bernie Webb.

To finish, Kyle presented a training bursary to a junior and senior rider. Rebecca Payne received the junior bursary that was sponsored by McDonnell Properties. The senior bursary was sponsored by Ballyellen Equestrian and was awarded to Sandra Darragh.

A truly motivating evening was had by all at the Eastern Region. Tribute was paid to the Chester Beattie Inn staff for hosting the event, and congratulations to all the winning riders. The Eastern Region’s next show will take place on Saturday, March 10th at Marlton Stud. All welcome.