A FEATURE of the three home internationals staged in Ireland this year is the fact that there have been no dedicated classes for underage riders. However, this hasn’t stopped them competing and those still riding ponies have been particularly delighted to take on their elders.

Last week, when the Fell family staged a second autumn international at Ballindenisk, a large contingent of young riders descended on the Watergrasshill, Co Cork venue and, while they didn’t manage to win any of the eight competitions, some did finish in the top six which augurs well for the future.