Fans flock to pony finals

23. August 08: As usual, the Millstreet pony derbies drew a large gathering of viewers and generated much excitement. The 148 AB Derby was perhaps the best this year as double-clear rounds proved elusive. The seven-pony jump-off produced six four-fault rounds, but the blistering pace of Enniscrone rider Richard Howley won out on the day despite knocking the last fence on Moy Dancer. Jessica Burke played it safe on Sillogue Darkie but also had the last fence down to drop to fourth in the end. Vincent Byrne (Forthview Master) and Shane Connell (Knockmartin Gold) were second and third, respectively.

The 128AB Derby produced three double-clear rounds. Nobody could better Co Clare rider Tom Foley's superb jump-off round on Muskerry Crusader, but Niamh McCormick on Sprinter's Magic and Hannah Smyth on Just Bob came closest. Tom also clocked the fastest time of the day on Thingamajug but came home with four faults to finish fourth.

Tom Foley also featured in the 138AB Derby where he took sixth place on Cherokee Breeze, but the day belonged to Jordan Kilkenny and Drumacan Flight. The only other double-clear round came from Laura Costello and Tyson, with Siobhán McCarthy and Double Trouble Boy in third place.

In the 148BC Derby, Galway's Michael Duffy proved to be unbeatable on The Genuine Article. Robert Anderson and Barry's Girl finished with the fastest time but came home with eight faults. Luke Campbell took the runner-up spot on Coote. Meanwhile, the Starfinder Final went to Jordan Coyle and Rock Dee Jay.