TREC comes to Leitrim

The weekend witnessed the first event of Three Counties TREC held in Drumshanbo Co. Leitrim by kind invitation of John Mcloughlin of Grangefort Equestrian Enterprises. A new member of TREC Ireland Three Counties TREC covers the counties of Leitrim, Roscommon and Longford. This new club was founded earlier in the year and having won the level one pairs national championship title in Stradbally Co. Laois they successfully went onto to host their first Training day in Co. Leitrim which took place on Sunday 21st.

With superb weather there was a good entry for the day, including many newcomers to the sport with eight competitors in the Junior section! In addition to welcoming riders from across the region some as far as Athlone and across the border this offered many riders their first opportunity to experience TREC.

This successful day was made further possible by our Technical Delegate of the day and Secretary of TREC Ireland Karen Murphy. Karen recently returned from Italy, where she mentored the young rider squad who competed at the TREC Young Rider World Championships.

The day kicked off with riders all kitted out in high vis gear with highlighters at the ready for Map room training with Karen. This was followed by a short break for some refreshments and home made treats which were kindly provided on-site throughout the day by Maura Farrell.

Sun cream was then applied by a few before setting out for the course walk to include COP (Control Of Paces) and PTV (Obstacles). Spectators were interested to see the variety of equines competing ranging from 11hh ponies up to 16.2hh .The use of western tack was also a focal point used by one competitor Elizabeth Cunnane who came all the way from Co. Roscommon much to the interest of Rob Steinke master saddler who came to support.

Some interesting options on course with breathtaking views but nothing would distract from the much coveted High score sash to be won! This was kindly sponsored by X-Factor rosettes located in Co. Galway.

Co Founder of Three Counties TREC, Elaine Neary spoke of the incredible reaction from competitors and spectators alike “ They were blown away by the facilities, stunning scenery and the warm welcome from the Grangefort team” Elaine said.

John McLoughlin,,owner of Grangefort Equestrian Enterprises, has many plans for the future. A professionally run facility with newly built indoor walker and lunge pen,2 all weather arenas plus approx 120miles of trekking to explore surrounded by forestry and the stunning Sliabh an Iarainn mountains.

“Grangefort has so much potential.It is a stunning venue and everything is here to create a leading competition centre in the Mid West.I am very excited about my future plans and completing further construction to help make it the success I want it to be.” John said. Hosts John and the wonderful team at Grangefort treated riders to a beautiful setting and with great orienteering and excellent facilities; we all look forward to returning for more adventures later in the future.