Back in the saddle for annual gymkhana
HAVING been one of the events to have fallen victim to the drought conditions at the height of summer, the Clonroche Gymkhana welcomed people from all over the country last week, albeit later than normal. One of the oldest events of its kind in the country, the 81st annual gymkhana had been due to take place in July, but was postponed until September as a result of the heat and challenging ground conditions.
‘It doesn’t happen that way to often,’ said organiser CJ Doyle. ‘The year before last we had to cancel because of the rain, so we’ve gone from one extreme to the other!’
Conditions were ideal this time around as equestrian enthusiasts galloped into Clonroche from all over the country to compete in a total of 30 different jumping classes for horses and ponies across five different arenas. Among the biggest classes was one sponsored by horse trainer Aidan O’Brien and his brother Walter was on hand to give out the prizes after a hotly contested affair.
This year there was also significant interest in the mounted games, run by Paul and Helen Flood, which sees participants and their ponies undertake a variety of challenges around obstacles. Some 80 ponies took part on the day. It wasn’t all horses either.
There was big interest in this year’s dog show which saw over 90 entries in ten different classes. As well as this there was a tent with all manner of home produce, baking and all kinds of treats on offer which also proved a big hit.
As one of the oldest in the country, the Clonroche Gymkhana has managed to weather the years well and still attracts a big crowd.
‘I’m showing my age now, but I can remember when there was 17 gymkhanas in county Wexford,’ CJ said. ‘Now we’re the last one left. After 81 years, the big problem is always getting volunteers, so I’d like to thank everyone who got involved and helped out in any way. I’d also like to thank Eddie Kelly, the landowner, for all his help and for rotating stock around us.’
The final figures are currently being tallied, but all of the proceeds from this year’s event will go directly to Clonroche Meals on Wheels. CJ wished to thank those who came from far and wide to attend and everyone who helped out on the day.