THE lost crew of the rescue helicopter R116 will be remembered in a special presentation to be made during the Wicklow Branch of the Irish Draught Horse Breeders’ Association’s 11th Annual Show at Spruce Lodge in Redcross, Co Wicklow over the June Bank Holiday weekend.

The memorial trophy will be presented to the winner of the all-new Connemara Championship on Monday, June 5th by Dónal O’Beirne of Hoofprints Innovations, whose life was saved by the crew of R116 when he was seriously injured in a hunting accident with the Bray Harriers in December 2015. “This is very close to my heart as only for the R116 coming to my rescue that time I would not be here,” said Dónal.

Following their great interest last year, Connemara classes have again been added to the show schedule to encouraged children to participate, and it is fitting that this year rider safety be the focus with the special trophy to the winner of the championship.

“Riders of all ages need to be aware of the dangers associated with horse riding, especially children,” he added.

The hard work carried out by the crews of R115, R116, R117 and R118 is also close to the hearts of several members of the Wicklow branch, including branch secretary Mary Dunne Molloy whose husband Dermot Molloy is a member of the crew with R117.

Their close friend, the late Captain Dara Fitzpatrick, was a keen equestrian enthusiast.

“Our sport is high risk and we regularly rely on the professionalism, expertise and ongoing selfless dedication which are provided regularly by these rescue teams in the pursuit of our safety,” said Mary.

Now in its 11th year, the show has gone from strength to strength and this year the prize-fund stands at €5,000. The supreme champion of the show will receive €500, with €200 going to the reserve champion.

As well as in-hand, ridden and working hunter classes for Irish Draught horses, there will also be competitions for Traditional Irish horses as well as Connemara ponies. This year’s panel includes two judges from the UK.

Online entries close tomorrow, Friday May 26th. Entry forms are available the Wicklow Irish Draughts IDHBA Facebook page or directly from the IDHBA website www.idhba.ie

Enquiries to show secretary Alex Moores (086 8079294) or branch secretary Mary Molloy on 086 8202654.