HAVING finally been given the go-ahead to resume action, the Northern Region of Dressage Ireland is holding its first show of the year today (Saturday) as it returns, following a break of 13 years, to the wonderful Co Fermanagh venue of Necarne Castle in Irvinestown.

The entry is on the small side as people were reluctant to register themselves, and their animals while there was still some indecision about the resumption of amateur sport in Northern Ireland, while the Region itself decided that no children would be permitted to compete.

A full listing of the season’s shows can be found on the regional website with the standout fixture being a three-day show in July (Friday 9th to Sunday 11th) at Necarne Castle which is also returning to the schedule of the Northern Region of Eventing Ireland this year on Saturday, May 22nd.

While young riders will have been disappointed at their exclusion from today’s show, they received good news when it was announced that training is starting again on Monday next, April 26th, at Danescroft Equestrian Centre, Lisburn for Northern Ireland Youth Dressage. Monday’s coach will be Alison Mastin Moore.

Full details regarding this scheme for riders aged between eight and 25, who do not have to be members of DI, can be found on the regional website.