26 June 2016, Sunday
By Bryan Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Equestrian Matters
Reigning champion Francis Connors closed the gap on league leader Paul Beecher, with victory in the seventh round of the Connolly’s RED MILLS Munster Grand Prix league at Charleville in Co Cork. Connors’ win came with Hilda Anthony’s hugely consistent mare Uskerty Diamond Lady, adding to another win for the pair in the opening round at Ballylawn show.
Waterford-born Connors also took runner-up spot with Capitol Cruis, in a hugely competitive 12 horse jump-off which saw seven double clear rounds. Tallow’s Paul Beecher however added to his points tally with a third place finish aboard Loughnatura Eric as the league moves into a vital phase where each point carries huge significance.
Young rider Timmy Doyle continued the excellent form which saw him placed last time out at Kileagh and finished fourth in Charleville aboard JS Bucks.
Tipperary’s Liam O’Meara slotted into fifth place with Curraghgraigue Jack Take Fligh, while another Tipp rider, Seamus Hayes, finished sixth with Barichello W.
The Connolly’s RED MILLS Munster Grand Prix league now moves to Aglish Gymkhana in Co Waterford this Thursday, with Paul Beecher and Loughnatousa Eric holding the lead on 30 points, while Beecher also fills second spot with Danqu (24). Francis Connors holds joint third place with Uskerty Diamond lady and Capitol Cruis, with both horses having collected 20 points each.
