ON what was a wet morning at the annual running of Killeagh District Gymkhana, 31 horse and rider combinations tried their hand at the Tony Hurley-designed track in the Munster FBD 1.20m Speed Series, with 22 of the combinations making it through to the second phase.

It was Tallow man and former Hickstead Derby winner Paul Beecher who claimed victory with Seryna Van Kuelen’s ten-year-old mare, Britt M, crossing the line in 31.94 seconds. Second place went to the day’s Grand Prix winner, Paddy O’Donnell, aboard Thomas Powers nine-year-old mare Harristown Gold, when breaking the beam in 33.32.

Third spot went to Co Kerry and to Maura Counihan, riding her own Killerisk Minnie, when they crossed the line with a clear round in 35.20 seconds.

Fourth place went back to Co Waterford and Paul Beecher again.

This time riding Jade Van De Start, the combination broke the beam in a time of 35.23.

Fifth place went to a local combination to the venue, Patrick Joyce, riding Jim Stafford’s Dusty Dude. The pair were clear in a time of 36.23. Co Clare’s John Gallagher occupied the final spot in the line-up, riding Linda Gallaghers Vida Dancer H. He was clear in a time of 36.30 seconds to claim sixth place.

The next leg of the series takes place at Charleville Show today (Saturday), before moving back to Co Waterford on Thursday, July 30th for the Aglish Charity Gymkhana.