Manx Harness Club held its first competiton since the relaxation of lockdown regulations with a one-day event at Great Meadow, Castletown.

There was a real enthusiasm within the carriage driving community.

This was the first outdoor competition since Ballacorey last year, preparation beginning several weeks earlier with one practice day at Great Meadow and another at Ellerslie Farm, Crosby.

The field of 10 entrants were put through various disciplines: dressage, cones and a marathon which included some navigating their way through some intimidating hay bales as well as twice traversing a water-crossing.

There were different categories: novice pony, novice horse, open pony, advanced horse and advanced pairs, with results scored overall.

Libby Priest was the overall winner and also finished in pole position in the dressage, while Lynda Christian claimed second and was also first in the cones. Third was Sue Corlett who came out on top in the marathon section.

Club chairwoman Libby Priest thanked everyone who took part and those who assisted in the running of the event.

Special thanks went to the Great Meadow team for the hire of the facility, dressage judges Angela Kennedy and Jane Attree, writers Wayne and Kate and Kirree-Ann for stewarding.

The next event will be the Manx Masters which will be held over the weekend of September 26-27. Further details can be found on the ’Manx Carriage Driving Ltd’ Facebook page.

PAUL HATTON

AND AMY ROTHWELL