Kilkenny amateur rider Gary Graham took the top spot in the Irish Farmers Journal qualifier held at Clare Equestrian Centre recently. Bright sunshine greeted the 36 riders who took on Marie Burke’s imposing track, and a competitive jump-off provided great sport. A daring run to the last fence secured first place for Graham, who was riding his own bay gelding Kilfane Rockie, jumping clear in 33.61 seconds.

Runner-up in the qualifier was Aisling Hughes with her striking skewbald Annaghbeg Cu Chulainn, while Waterford’s Sinead Dahill made her journey worthwhile by taking third place with Andy Fearon’s Ballrennett Lady.

Celebrating 25 years of running this very successful and popular Munster Amateur Show were chief organisers Loretta Enright and Pauline and Derrick Burke. The show has gone from strength to strength, with many riders travelling from all over the country.

A very competitive Grand Prix brought the day’s competitions to a close. Orla Dixon set a very tight target when going clear in 31.82 seconds. However, Katie Frazer and her nimble home-bred mare Keylogues Gold took the tightest of turns and proved unbeatable with a clear round in a time of 31.77.

Leading rider prizes were presented to Aileen McDermot and Sinead Dahill who had consistent results throughout the day.