Irish pony trio give exhibition in Arezzo

Ponies and young riders

By Frank Mulvihill

25 September 2004: Arezzo in Italy is famous because it was where, in the 11th Century, a monk called Guido codified a practice for notating Gregorian chant (that used by monks in monasteries) which is still used today.

Nowadays, the Italian town is making a name for itself in the equestrian world for its exciting equestrian shows. Arezzo runs an impressive Pony and Young Rider show in the Autumn each year which brings together many of the the top European teams.

Just last week a team of three pony riders, one of which also competed in the Junior competitions, went there to represent Ireland. On the back of Ireland's Olympic victory the omens were good and, despite being one rider short of the full complement, the team left no doubt in the minds of those present that Ireland is indeed a force in showjumping circles. The trio took part in competitions at the Italian venue for two consecutive weekends and capped their visit in style by winning the Nations Cup. Waterford's CailÕn Power still has one year remaining in pony ranks and this outing should stand her in good stead for next year.

In her first venture abroad, the 14 year-old rode the exciting Loughnatousa Bart in the Grand Prix and came of age when delivering a clear round and a 4 fault round. Her fellow Deise rider Fiona Beecher was also on song and despite riding another novice, Loughnatousa Ron, did her country proud with a double-clear performance. The third Irish rider was Benedict Kuehnle, from Coolrain Co. Laois, who as current Millstreet and Dublin Champion was not likely to let the side down. Riding his dual champion Sillogue Darkie, he returned a zero and a 4 fault round in the Nations Cup to give a team total of 8 faults over two rounds and guarantee Ireland the honours against the odds.

Beecher's second round clear proved decisive as the Irish had been battling it out with Belgium. In the end the clear round gave the Irish a one fence cushion and consigned the Belgians to the runners-up spot on 12 faults.

In the Grand Prix, the Irish also turned in some fine performance. Fiona Beecher topped the list here when taking 4th place on Loughnatousa Ron, CÄilÕn Power was 8th with Loughnatousa Bart and Benedict Kuehnle had just four faults in the first round.Kuehnle also came away with a mountain bike in the first week, and a motorbike for the Outstanding Rider Personality in the second week. He won the CHIOP Derby during the second week on George Mullins' Dalestown Thunderstorm and placed 3rd in the FEI** European Pony Test where the opposition included the German team event ponies.

The Irish champion also collected two third places and one 4th in horse classes riding Tullibard's Remini.