THE Northern Region of Eventing Ireland held its annual awards dinner in the La Mon Hotel last Saturday night when, for the 25th time (as far as he recalls), Steven Smith was announced as the leading rider and was presented with his trophy by regional chairperson, Catherine Abbott.

Gilford-based Smith rode five horses when the NR season commenced at Lightsource BP Tyrella (1) on March 23rd, a similar number when it closed at Knockany on September 7th and many in between. He also campaigned regularly on Sundays down south and over May 3rd and 4th he won on all four of his rides at Vesey Lodge and two of four at Crecora (3).