THE North Eastern Region of the Association of Irish Riding Clubs held their annual awards function last Friday night in Betsy Below, Swords where there were welcome drinks, finger food, a photo booth, dancing and a free raffle with 10 x €100 TRI vouchers on offer.

Cheval’s Maria Carrick and Boyneside’s Sarah Richardson, who were on the inaugural awards’ night committee back in 2009, organised Friday’s get together when the awards were presented by regional chair Jane Whitaker (Copperfield) assisted by regional PRO Jane Richardson.

The latter, like her daughter Sarah, is a member of Boyneside who were crowned Club of the Year for their “incredible team spirit, dedication and passion for equestrian sport. The club fosters a welcoming and supportive atmosphere where every member, from novice to experienced rider, is encouraged to grow and achieve their goals.

“With well-organised training sessions, successful show participation, show hosting and strong club involvement, Boyneside truly embodies the values of teamwork, sportsmanship and fun. It’s more than just a club - it’s a family that celebrates every success, big or small, and where friendships are made for life!”

For all her help over the past few years, this writer was delighted to learn that Boyneside’s Sarah Richardson was named Person of the Year for 2025.

“Sarah has shown an outstanding level of commitment in her role as NER secretary over the past several years. Always welcoming to new members at shows, she knows everyone and is endlessly helpful and encouraging. Sarah is highly efficient and incredibly motivating when it comes to organising events - her energy and dedication keep the entire region running smoothly.

Enthusiasm

“There wouldn’t be a region without Sarah. She inspires every club, bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm that strengthen the community. Sarah also goes above and beyond to support club secretaries, offering guidance and hands-on help at shows across the region. The time and effort she dedicates to regional and club events, training, and meetings are truly remarkable. Her commitment and passion are second to none.”

Secretary

Sarah is stepping down shortly as regional secretary with the responsibility for the role transferring to Drynam’s Cathy Sayers and Laura Reynolds who know too well that she will be a hard act to follow.

Ard Lú’s Linda Nulty was named Club Secretary of the Year. “Linda did her best this year as first-time secretary. She always goes above and beyond for her members and the club.” Club Member of the Year for 2025 was Cal Naidoo who is “an invaluable asset to Cheval”.

The award for Volunteer of the Year was presented to Copperfield’s Karen Gibney. “Constantly giving up her time, sometimes for an entire day or weekend, Karen has volunteered behind the scenes as well as holding the fort in the show offices on many occasions.

“Karen had a huge involvement in the NER Festival this year - setting up on Friday night, judging and scoring on Saturday and again helping and scoring on Sunday. She also had her calculator out for the NER team dressage qualifiers where she was on hand in Killossery for the day.”

That NER Festival at the Cheval grounds was named Show of the Year for 2025. “It was a true highlight of the Riding Club calendar!

Action-packed

“Held over two action-packed days, the event featured dressage, handy horse, performance hunter and showing classes, along with more than 10 championships offering fantastic prizes and generous sponsorship. With an excellent panel of judges and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, the Festival was a huge success and a firm favourite among members.

“Perfectly showcasing the spirit of the Riding Club movement - fun, competitive and regional and club-driven from start to finish - it was led by the chief organisers Sarah Richardson, Jane Whitaker and Karen Gibney along with the regional committee.”