FOLLOWING a fantastic season in the pony ranks, European team gold medallist Ciaran Nallon added yet another win to his already impressive tally when landing the 1.30m Gain Equine Nutrition final with Bally Fair Deal at the Cavan Indoor Championships on Saturday.
Nallon, who was crowned the 148cm Coolmore Stud Pony Premier Champion the weekend prior in Portmore, had demonstrated good form throughout the week and also claimed the 1.20m championship with Bally Fair Deal on Sunday.
Owned by Ciaran’s father Richard, Bally Fair Deal is a 10-year-old mare and at one time was competed by Richard up to 1.10m level. Since taking over the ride two years ago, Ciaran had clocked up a series of good results.
Speaking afterwards, Nallon said: “I was delighted with the results over the weekend as I was up against top combinations.
“It was a learning curve and next year I hope to compete with the horse in more classes at home and abroad. I have one more year in ponies and my plan is to continue competing in both arenas.”
John Floody took the runner-up place in the 1.30m final with Jim McGuinness’ Shalamar Cassino, ahead of Matt Garrigan and Jenny Doran’s Horseplay Diamond Matrix.
Runner-up to Nallon in the 1.20m was American Rosalie Bierdon and LVS Wizard, while third place belonged to Daniel Carroll and Armani B’s. On Sunday, winner of the 1.10m Grand Final was Mackenzie Healy on Mr Easy Street. In second place was Kaitlyn King riding Captains Orders, ahead of Daniel O’Shea and Kinmar Knight.
Victory in the 1m Championship belonged to Niall McGarry and Clarkes Lux Clever. In second place was Samir Mirdad and Mirdads LPM, ahead of Donal O’Connor and Sister Martina. O’Connor picked up another prize when he rode to victory aboard Loughshore Light in the 1.10m Championship.
Not content with the win, he also took second place with Sister Martina. Accounting for third place were Antoinette Burns and Castlelawn Splendid. Following a host of results, Sven Hadley was crowned leading rider, sponsored by Silver Shadows Solariums.