Lorraine is new national champion

She is one of Northern Ireland’s best known eventers and a Horsesport Ireland registered instructor.

Competing over two days with her bay Captain Clover, sired gelding Tullycraine Boy, Lorraine scored maximum points to take the National title to win on 68.556.

Judges Joan Ahern and Robert Stanier (UK list 4 judge) together with John Robinson (UK list 2A) and Christine Skodjereite (Norway List 2) gave Lorraine top marks for her tests to win the overall novice title from 50 entries over two days.

Lorraine, well known for tutoring many of the Province’s up and coming riders, incuding a mum’s club and BHS Pony Clubs said: “It was a fantastic weekend, my horse never put a foot wrong and I was confident he could win overall. He has always been very consistent and learns easily with great paces.”

Lorraine has been tutored this year by professional dressage rider Paul Hayler from England who trains from the yard of Becky and Declan Cullen at Clare Road, Waringstown.

“I would like to thank Paul for all his hard work this year which really paid off and to Neil Morrison who also tutors me at home. Thanks also to my groom Diane Lee from Armagh who helped look after my horse over the weekend,” she said.

Lorraine now concentrates on showjumping Tullycraine Boy this winter in preparation for next season’s horse trials calendar.

“He also has new advanced movements to learn for next year,” added Lorraine.

Lorraine will now concentrate on her younger pupils this winter who are also preparing for the busy competition season in dressage and showjumping.