BETWEEN the high standard of riding, production and turn-out, the excellent condition of Barnadown’s Main Grass Arena and, of course, the weather, Sunday’s eighth Connolly’s Red Mills/Showing Ireland Champion of Champions finals day could be termed the best yet.

There were two highly-respected English judges in Jayne Ross (conformation) and Olivia Minihane (ride) and efficient ring stewards in Willie Corrigan and Michael Lyons. They were backed up by the tireless Sam Cushe who, on duty from early in the day, had a long day in the sun as had ring commentator Paul Nolan.