A TOTAL of €1,500 has been award to clubs under the Association of Irish Riding Clubs Club Excellence Award scheme with three clubs achieving the silver standard.

Four clubs in total applied to the scheme during 2015 with two very close to achieving the gold standard but one applicant did not meet the criteria and was not given an award.

The scheme recognises the vital contribution affiliated clubs make in the development of the sport while providing outlets for participation and promoting equestrian sports at grassroots level. It also provides a road map for clubs to ensure they are operating at the highest standards possible.

Each applicant is assessed under 35 different criteria in areas such as club management, club development, education and training, volunteer management, competition participation, community development and health and safety.

The three clubs who reached the silver award will receive a grant of €500.

A.I.R.C. chairman Tony Ennis said: “I would encourage as many clubs as possible to get involved and apply for the award during the next round of submissions next year as it is a useful exercise to ensure your club is developing on the right track.”

Club Excellence Award Results 2015