SEVEN excited RDAI riders from Cork, Limerick, Waterford, Meath and north Dublin recently had a wonderful day at the Dublin Horse Show at the RDS. Taking part in the RDAI Display Ride in Ring 2 they showed off their riding skills to the RDS crowd.

This year’s ride was dedicated to the memory of Niamh Kingston, former RDAI National Secretary, who died unexpectedly in June. Along with her many other responsibilities, Niamh had been one of the key organisers of this display since the first one took place in 2004. She is very sadly missed by everyone in RDAI.

Dilys Lindsay, RDAI spokesperson said: “Our seven riders had a wonderful experience at the RDS meeting with members of Team Ireland beforehand and showcasing their skills to a large crowd of spectators. It builds such memorable and enjoyable experiences for all of those participating and we would like to thank the president and board of the RDS for once again allowing us to take part in this event, which is such an important occasion for all our riders and their families.”

One of the groups taking part this year was the Malahide group, which will be 50 years in existence in early 2019. The late Mrs. Maureen Haughey was one of the founder members of this group and thanks to the generosity of the Haughey family, the Maureen Haughey Legacy Fund contributes to the expenses for each group travelling to the RDS.

The seven riders participating in the Trail Ride were:

  • Rory O’Donovan from the Castlewhite RDAI Group in Cork
  • Lynn Armstrong from the Ashbourne RDAI Group in Meath
  • Aaron O’Brien from the Kilronan RDAI Group in Swords, Co. Dublin
  • Brian White from the Clonshire RDAI Group in Limerick
  • Laoise Ní Cheallaigh from the Finisk Valley RDAI Group In Waterford
  • Oisin O’Connell from the Finisk Valley RDAI Group in Waterford
  • Morgan Lambert McCluskey from the Malahide RDAI Group in Co. Dublin

    • The RDAI is a voluntary organisation, which offers the opportunity of therapeutic and recreational horse riding to any person, with a physical or intellectual disability.

    Further information on the RDAI is available at www.rdai.org