Raheen Na Gun Stud and Competition Centre www.gerobrien.com Tel +353 86-2533772

Lorraine O'Brien

“Well I have been out of the saddle for a while! It seems like an age since I was jumping on the national and international pony and young rider scene…So I am just easing myself back into the competitive show-jumping circuit. I didn’t compete during my leaving certificate or during my 4 year degree in primary teaching and psychology. However I did keep my hand in with the horses! I was nominated chairperson of the Equestrian Society in Mary Immaculate College in 2005 and 2006, and our college was 4th in one of the Intervarsity competitions. I also organised horse-riding lessons for the students on the college on a weekly bases in Clonshire Equestrian Centre, Adare, County Kildare. These lessons were subsidised by fundraising carried out by the society. I had a great time in college with the Equestrian Society, however, I am delighted to be in a position to show-jump again.

Lorraine in the 4 yr old class, Cavan International 2004

Last year was the first year I since 2004 that I did any shows. I am lucky because my dad Ger is always there to encourage and support me. He gave me the ride of “Attraction in Action”, a five year old horse for the year. He also gave me some lessons, helping me to get my eye back in. I registered as an amateur and really enjoyed the amateur shows. They were very competitive against the clock, yet they were a height that I was suitable for both myself and the 5 year old horse I was riding. I was unlucky to finish 9th in the Kill amateur RDS qualifier, only one place out of Dublin.
This year I am riding my dad’s Wivianne R. She is a beautiful bay mare, who jumped 1.20’s with my dad last year. I plan to do the amateur qualifiers again this year, and maybe I’ll have a bit more luck! I also hope to try my hand at a few 1.20’s. And we’ll see what happens from there!!!!”

Lorraine in the 1.30 Final in Cavan International 2004