Horse Week: Horse driving trials return to Rademon Estate for first time in 15 years

With warm weather overhead and a great atmosphere around the venue from early morning, families and supporters gathered to enjoy a full day of carriage driving action. Horses and ponies were turned out to perfection, while competitors tackled a flowing course designed to test accuracy, pace and skill.

There was plenty of close competition throughout the day, with Mark McAleese taking victory in the Gateway class and Jacqueline Magennis securing first place in the VSE section. Joe McAleese claimed top honours in the competitive Pre-Novice class ahead of Megan McOuat, Chloe McCombe, Kate Russell and Gareth Quinn.

Further success came for Gina Morrison in the Novice Pony class, Damian Muldoon-Martin in Novice Horse, and Emma Berwick in the Novice Horse Pair section. Denise Taylor won the Open Pony category, Alex Bryson topped the Open Horse class, while Rachel Campbell claimed victory in the Open Pony Pair ahead of David Mathers and Christine Wright.

The event also marked a special occasion for the Association, with the competition returning to Rademon Estate for the first time in more than 15 years — a welcome return to a venue fondly remembered by many involved in the sport.

Organisers want to thank the volunteers, stewards, judges and officials whose hard work behind the scenes helped the day run smoothly.

Special appreciation is extended to John Goodwin and his course-building team for producing an enjoyable and beautifully presented course.

Thanks are also offered to Rose Boyd and the team at Rademon Estate for their warm hospitality, as well is to photographers including JB Equine Photography, Karen Greene Photography, Keith Wilson and Frances Price, who captured the day’s memorable moments.

The Northern Ireland Carriage Driving Association thanked everyone who attended, supported and competed, helping make the Rademon One Day Event such an enjoyable occasion.

Attention now turns to the association’s next event, which will take place at The Waring Estate, Waringstown, on Saturday, 30 May, where competitors and supporters are once again expected to enjoy another exciting day of carriage driving action.

The association looks forward to welcoming competitors, volunteers and spectators as the 2026 season continues.