THE Side Saddle Association of Ireland (SSAI) is to host a ‘Have a go’ day aimed at junior riders on Saturday, October 29th. SSAI organiser Ciara O’Connell said the move was prompted by a decline in the number of children taking part in side saddle classes in recent years.

“In 2016, there were two classes at Dublin to endorse the high level of participation in the ladies classes around the country, with large numbers in particular attending the RDS side saddle qualifiers, which was a very encouraging sign for our association,” said O’Connell.

“In previous years there were also two junior side saddle classes held at the Dublin Horse Show, which, according to our records, had 40 entries out of a possible 44 junior members in 2001. In recent years, however, we have seen a decline in the number of children taking up and participating in side saddle,” she continued.

“Children are the life blood of any organisation and it is therefore vital that we can encourage more children to take part. It is our aim for 2017 to increase the number of junior riders involved in side saddle in Ireland and to provide support and assistance to any juniors, parents and guardians who would like to get involved.”

The ‘Have a go’ day will be hosted by Julie Brindley at Mulberry Manor Farm, Rathbeggan Lane, Dunshaughlin, Co Meath and will cost €20 per rider. Pre-booking is essential to organise saddles for all and enquiries should be made by text to Ciara O’Connell on 087-2266321.

SSAI personnel are also available to visit pony club camps, rallies and IPS training days with a selection of side saddles so that children can try this discipline for the first time.

In 2017, the organisation will be hosting a country-wide league for junior and lady riders, with the aim of reviving entry numbers in junior side saddle classes at agricultural shows all over Ireland. For more information, go to the website www.ssaireland.com.