2025 Showjumping Ireland National Training Bursary Clinic

Horse First were delighted to be part of the Showjumping Ireland National Training Bursary Clinic, once again held at the stunning grounds of Necarne Castle, Irvinestown, County Fermanagh. Horse First were delighted to present three prizes for the best rider profiles created by participants, which will be published in a national paper following an inspiring talk by Emer Bermingham.

In preparation for the academy, 23 of Ireland’s most promising young rider athletes came forward to a selection day. Under the expert and watchful eye of judge Susanne Macken, each earned their place at this prestigious clinic.

The selected riders were:
Isabel Sheehan, Natalie Summerville, Maeve Coffey, Jack Moloney, Tamara Perry, Jill Greene, Lauren Quinn, Casey Phair, Katie Campbell, Oisin Hogg, Cristian Kennedy, Joshua Busteed, Zara Finlay, Zoe Penfold, Saoirse Hanafin, Emma Barrett, Faye Delaney, Conor Hayes, Siún McGillycuddy, Jennifer Newell, Launa McCann, Edie Codd, and Anna Coffey.

Each rider brought two horses, allowing them to train across different levels of experience. Over the course of the clinic, they were treated to an outstanding programme designed to deepen their knowledge, improve their flatwork, and advance their jumping skills.

Coaching & Training

All of the coaches — each trained within the HSI coaching system — worked together to deliver a consistent, structured programme. Sharing our knowledge and approaches ensured that the athletes benefited from a unified training philosophy, one that Irish coaches and trainers are proud to uphold.

Flatwork Coaches:

• Anna Dangerfield
• Laura Brown-McCann
• Gerald Bloomer

Showjumping Coaches:

• James Kernan
• Marie Burke
• Ian (Head Coach)

Across the three intensive days, the athletes impressed with their horsemanship, discipline, and care for their horses. Their tack, stables, and presentation were immaculate each day, and their camaraderie and good humour made the atmosphere truly special.

Coach Ian Fearon with students, Suin McGillycuddy, Conor Hayes and Faye Delaney.

The programme also featured invaluable sessions from leading experts:

• Alan Lynch (Course Designer): Demonstrated course-building techniques, distances, and materials, giving riders hands-on experience with the challenges posed by designers.
• Casey Phair (Young Rider Athlete): Delivered an outstanding presentation on Equine Dentistry, highlighting its importance for horse welfare and performance.
• Emer Bermingham (PR & Media): Offered guidance on professional presentation with owners, sponsors, and judges, as well as advice on navigating social media.
• Hilary Glasgow (Veterinary): Spoke on worming practices and recent advances in equine healthcare.
• Charlie Flanagan (Equine Massage Therapy): Demonstrated how bodywork supports equine performance and wellbeing.
• Blue Grass Feeds Representative: Shared insights into nutrition, feed balance, and the specific needs of leisure versus high-performance horses.

Alongside these, riders enjoyed educational lectures on stable management and equine welfare.

The highlight of the clinic was the awarding of training bursaries — life-changing opportunities for young athletes to train with some of the world’s top Irish international riders, including:

• Andrew Bourns
• Alexander Butler
• Daniel Coyle
• Darragh Kenny
• and American superstar Laura Kraut