Winner of three medals at London 2012, Kearney is used to coping with the demands of high level competition. With her qualification as a Horse Sport Ireland level 1 coach nearing completion, the rider was keen to run her first coaching clinic.

Helen learned to ride at Toberton Lodge from the age of 12, attending lessons under the instruction and guidance of owner Mary Kane before going on to compete at local and national level with the Connemara gelding Robin.

Diagnosed with Fredrichs Ataxia, a condition affecting co-ordination and balance, Helen found horse riding a huge help and her Paralympic journey began in 2008. Since then, Helen and her grey gelding Mister Cool took silver in the grade 1a individual competition followed by a bronze in the individual freestyle at London 2012. The pair was also part of the Irish team that claimed bronze at the games.

Nine riders of varying levels took part in the dressage clinic in private or semi-private sessions. Helen took each rider back to basics through the principles of the dressage training scale, with a focus on improving the rider’s position and the horse’s way of going. Working the riders through exercises involving circles, bending and transitions Helen aimed to get the best out of each combination.

Helen’s sister Brona is also affected by Friedrichs Ataxia and both are heavily involved in fundraising for research into the condition. Brona has organised a 10-mile fundraising pleasure ride for May 4th at Donard, Co Wicklow. The winner of the race will be awarded the Helen Kearney cup on the day and anyone interesting in taking part can call 087-6669468.