CAVAN International CSI1* Show got off to a great start last weekend with large numbers in both the international and national classes.

In the opening international on Friday, the Theraplate Ireland Welcome Stakes, saw 55 combinations go to post. As expected, the stakes were high with riders looking to get the first international win under their belt. As a result the top five finishers came home clear within 60 seconds.

Following their win in the SJI Autumn Grand Prix at Killossery, Thomas O’Brien and Miss Darco were on form as they added to their record, claiming the first win of the show.

A combination very quick against the clock, they were over a second faster than they closest rival, clocking 54.72 seconds. Owned by O’Brien, the nine-year-old mare, who was bred by Sinead Connelly from Galway, is by Darco out of the Drossan-sired dam Green Sleeps Divine. Green Sleeps Divine was campaigned by Connelly on the national circuit with much success. This combination has proved very consistent of late at this level, having claimed third and fifth in the Autumn Grand Prix in Mullingar.

Wood close

Also keeping all the poles in place were Harry Wood and Amelia’s Boy in 56.10 for second place. Richard Kerins and Achonry Carie followed closely behind and clocked 56.89 for third.

Leading young rider at Dublin Horse Show this year, Orla Queally demonstrated her skill in the senior division as she partnered Fontanel Van T&L to a clear in 58.40, for eventual fourth. Slotting into fifth place was Kevin Gallagher who was riding Greg Broderick’s Flexibility, clear in 58.60, ahead of Vincent Byrne and Ganturano in a time of 64.06.