AFTER a long break, Donard Glen Equestrian Club were back out in force last Sunday for their June ride out. Despite social distancing rules being put in place for the ride, fun was had by all of the 50 combinations that set off from the village of Donard, in Co Wicklow.

Running over local farmland and forestry, the ride ran for approximately three hours and had a mixture of riders from novice to experience. With jumps being optional on the day, every level was catered for. With organisers following the current HSE guidelines, pre-booking was essential and only 50 combinations were permitted to join. In booking their place, riders received a confirmation number which they had to produce on the day.

Pleased with how the day went, committee member Gillian Moody said: “It was a bit different for us as normally we don’t limit the numbers who take part. People were very understanding and everyone that turned up had pre-booked and kept their social distance. This system worked very well and we are keen to keep the pre-booking for other ride out events.

“It was mostly families that were out and it was great to see a mix of children and older riders. As always, we are very grateful to the landowners that allow us to cross their land and to the volunteers that prepare the course, stewards and those who and open and close gates. Our next ride out is the end of July and we hope that as the restrictions are lifted, we will be able to increase the numbers who can partake.”