Horse Week: Sun, clear rounds, and superb sport at Connell Hill training show

Spectators dusted off their sun hats to line the arena, in a busy and welcoming atmosphere under the watchful lens of photographer, Lyndon McKee, who caught every stride as riders of all levels delivered high-class action throughout the day.

Among the standout competitors was the powerhouse team from Liam McCluskey’s yard. Showcasing an eventful string of talented horses, stable riders Shane McCluskey and Ashling Doherty were in great form, picking up top ribbons across multiple heights and proving the depth of quality currently under McCluskey’s guidance.

Grassroots classes

The action-packed day commenced with the future stars tackling the cross-poles. Sorcha Maher piloted Prada to a lovely round, while Harriet Jackson and the lovely Hugo also navigated the class very well.

Sorcha Maher and Prada maintained their winning form into the 50cm class, sharing the spoils with Francesca Jackson and Hugo. As the tracks began to grow, the 60cm division saw a flurry of clear rounds.

Reah Crawford (Mya), Steven Crawford (Ariel), Molly Ferguson (Star), Tracey Lockhart (Riley), and the ever-consistent Sorcha Maher and Prada all produced masterful displays over the brightly coloured fences.

Mid-height classes

The 70cm and 80cm classes proved to be the busiest of the afternoon, demanding accuracy and stamina. Shane McCluskey kick-started his day by piloting young horse Teddy to a brilliant performance in the 70cm line-up. He was joined at the top by a host of skilled combinations, including Reah Crawford (Mya), Diane Scott (Myagi), Isla McKee (Indie), Sarah Kirkpatrick (Volvo), Kim Murphy (Teddy), Donna Barron (Dreamer), Katie Surgeoner (Brandy), Tracey Lockhart (Tigger), Emma McMaw (Strider), Samantha Billings (Fiddlesticks), and William Thompson (Dotty).

Moving into the 80cm class, saw Shane McCluskey again, this time aboard the eye-catching What’s up Doc.

The competitors pushed the standard high, with foot-perfect rounds delivered by Isla McKee (Indie), Sarah Kirkpatrick (Volvo), Molly Ferguson (Honey), Diane Scott (Myagi), Shane OGready (Mac), John McKirgan (Dolly), Joanne Lyons (Sky), Charlie Henry McCoole (Cecilia), Lucy (Charner), and Lisa Blizzard (Phablo).

Stepping up

As the fences reached 90cm, the technicality increased, but the riders took up their challenges as Shane McCluskey registered another top performance, steering Paul. Keeping the pressure on were excellent clears from William Thompson (Nando), Lindsay Martin (Jackson), Anna Davis (Jade) Judith Beattie (Phoebe), and Katie Surgeoner on her second mount (Joey).

The 1m class saw Liam McCluskey’s yard take centre stage once again, as the talented Ashlene Doherty produced a spectacular, fluid round on Lorenzo. Also matching that standard with flawless clears were Anna Davis (Rubert), Christine Campbell (Barney), Keith McDonald (Rocco), and Zoe Caskey (Jess), William Thompson (Nando).

High-octane finales

The afternoon concluded in the biggest tracks of the day. In the 1.10m class, Shane McCluskey and Paul proved their versatility by stepping up in height to deliver another great round.

Ashlene Doherty and Lorenzo also stayed foot-perfect to seal a great double for the McCluskey team. Joining the winners were Victoria Greeves with Twister, Zoe Caskey with Jeff, and Jamie Lee Mark with Bella.

Closing out the day saw Victoria Greeves and Twister in the 1.20m track wrapping up a highly successful Saturday of showjumping in style.

A legacy of dedication and excellence

The true depth of Connell Hill’s impact on the Irish showjumping circuit was highlighted earlier this month as local talent Jodie Creighton and her mother Gillian let us see behind the scenes at Connell Hill with a reminder of the lifelong dedication behind this County Antrim venue.

Equestrian fans can get a closer look at this journey through a brilliant feature video shared on the Dublin Horse Show Facebook page. The interview shines a spotlight on the tireless background work of Jodie and her mother, Gillian Creighton.

It provides a rare, behind-the-scenes insight into the immense preparation, grit, and passion that goes into producing top-class horses. For over 30 years, the Creighton family has fostered success from their local base, shaping Connell Hill into a premier launching pad for both international athletes and grassroots riders alike.

Generous support from Doagh Equestrian

A special highlight of this training series remains the generous and continuous support from Doagh Equestrian, who sponsor the beautiful rosettes for the riders each week. Their contribution ensures that every participant, from the tiniest lead-rein pioneer to the 1.0m combinations, heads home with a hard-earned memento of their performance.

Beyond their ring-side support, Doagh Equestrian continues to serve as a vital commercial hub for local riders.

The store currently has shavings available at an excellent price of just £5 per bale. For those looking to replenish their footwear collection, a lovely choice of fly rugs in all sizes has just arrived in-store for under £30 with a free bottle of fly spray for good measure.

Riders can keep up to date with their latest arrivals, deals, and daily offers by following them on Facebook, Instagram (@DoaghEquestrian), and TikTok.

Mark your calendars

The busy rotation of training and registered leagues continues at the Antrim venue throughout the spring and straight into the summer months.

Unregistered training shows take place every Saturday morning, starting at 10am. Upcoming dates include:

· Saturday 6th June

· Saturday 13th June

· Saturday 20th June

· Saturday 27th June

The Connell Hill SJI Registered Showjumping League offers registered competitors a chance to gain points every Thursday morning. Please check the official SJI website for exact upcoming dates.

Excellent facilities for hire

Championship-standard facilities are available for private hire seven days a week. Whether you prefer the outdoor arena with a full set of show jumps or the indoor arena setup, both surfaces remain immaculate, set, and ready for use.

Located at 48 Drumsough Rd, Randalstown, Antrim BT41 2NW bookings can be made directly via the Connell Hill shows page.

All registered entries for the SJI series, running every Thursday, should be placed through SJI online.

More Results – Saturday 30th May 2026

50cm: Carla Dolan, Cara; Dolce Moore, Pippa; Dolce Moore, Donny; Debbie Bunting, Charlie.

60cm: Carla Dolan, Cara; Ingrid Scott, Sunshine; Dolce Moore, Pippa; Dolce Moore, Donny; Jane McFarlane, Bentley.

70cm: Isla McKee, Indie; Sinead Diver, Calida; Isla Smyth, Buddy; Amelia Horner, Miss Blackberry Pop; Clara Little, Bambi.

80cm: Isla McKee, Indie; Sinead Diver, Calida; Eabha Quinn, Teddy; John McKirgan, Dolly; Isla Smyth, Buddy; Donna Barron, Dreamer; Nicole Peoples, TJ.

90cm: Nicole Peoples, TJ; Zoe Horner, Roo; Keith McDonald, Rocco; Fiona Coyle, Minnie.

1m: Fiona Coyle, Woody.