« Back to 2003 News Archive

HORSE DRIVING TRIALS A SUNNY SUCCESS

CASTLE KENNEDY Horse Driving Trials and Country Fair was a resounding success according to competitors, visitors and organisations.

Event organiser, Jane McDowall, reported that more that 4,000 people enjoyed the sunny weather and beautiful scenery at Castle Kennedy at the weekend.

The carriage driving went without a hitch and competitors enjoyed Saturday's marathon drive of 21km through the magnificent gardens and grounds of Stair Estates.

Many visitors took advantage of the new layout of the marathon obstacles closer to the showground to be thrilled by the skill and speed of the carriage drivers negotiating the obstacles, sponsored by local companies.

The Tri-Nations competition was won by Scotland, with Ireland a close second and England taking third place.

Seventy carriage driving competitors, grooms and family stayed on site from Wednesday to Sunday, creating a mobile village and stable area of 400 people and 150 horses. Fifteen competitors had travelled from Ireland for the event with Edwin Bryson from County Down making his visit particularly worthwhile winning the Single Horse class against strong competition. Sara Mullins from County Kildare was third in this class and both are strong contenders as team members for the World Championships next year.