OPENING its gates to SJI show jumping once more was Castle Irvine Necarne which welcomed a leg of the TRI Autumn Pony League recently. Held on behalf of Show Jumping Ireland, there were a total of 17 different events across the two days of jumping.

This was the first event held in Necarne for Show Jumping Ireland in a number of years with competitors coming from all across the Ulster region. All events took place in the purpose built show jumping arena with strict Covid-19 regulations in place at all times. Unfortunately due to the restrictions in place, there were no spectators in attendance.

Ulster Region judges representative Nicola Tang commented: “It’s great to see Necarne up and running again, fulfilling its potential as a top-class facility for equestrianism. A very successful TRI Autumn Tour ran over two days at the weekend with great courses, arena maintenance, exceptional administration, volunteers and attention to all the current Covid regulations with Covid officers on site.

“It was great to see the team take all guidance given to them on board to ensure the safety and smooth running of their first SJI show. I feel this is the start of a great journey for them. Keep up the great work.”

Chairman of the SJI Pony Ulster Region, Andrew Thompson, added: “It was fantastic to be back in Castle Irvine Necarne, such a beautiful and brilliant facility. We are very lucky to have Castle Irvine in our local area and also within the Ulster Region, we thank Castle Irvine for hosting this event and hope to be back their very soon.”