TWO squads of Dressage Ireland members once again represented Ireland at Home Internationals in Britain - where they are at a disadvantage as the English, Scottish and Welsh team members are used to riding British Dressage tests in competition.

Vale View Equestrian in Leicestershire was the venue in early August for the Cavallo UK Youth Home Nations where, according to the Irish chef d’equipe Claire Ewing, “all 18 riders put their best foot forward and pulled off some incredible performances.

“With 36 teams taking part from across the UK and Ireland, the standard was extremely high.

“Numerous riders secured top 20 placings over the weekend and Lucy Ferris finished seventh overall (on Duncarbery Cascade) in the Preliminary section, which was a huge achievement.”

In early September, Caroline Moran travelled as Ireland’s chef d’quipe for the Senior Home Nations’ competition at Chard Equestrian in Somerset, where gale force winds, heavy rain, thunder and lightning on Saturday and Sunday were in direct contrast to the lovely conditions which prevailed on warm-up Friday.

“I’m proud of the commitment and team spirit shown by our riders at Chard,” commented Moran, who constantly kept riders informed of any changes to the schedule due to the weather.

“The Senior Home Nations provided valuable exposure and the lessons learned will be important stepping stones for future success.”

Most of the Irish riders were disappointed with their scores and, if these trips to home internationals are to continue, Dressage Ireland will have to consider including the relevant BD Tests in competition firstly in the run-up to squad selection and then before teams travel.