Christa Dillon and Niamh Macken, members of the Mullingar Riding Club, recently showcased their talent at the AIRC Festival last weekend. Their individual wins were noteworthy, but it was their paired victory in the dressage event that brought their friendship into a new light.

The AIRC Festival Experience

The AIRC (Association of Irish Riding Clubs) Festival is an event that Grassroots riders look forward to each year. Christa described it as “a great weekend” where the Mullingar Riding Club is always well represented. Despite personal challenges, including a recent family bereavement, Christa was able to compete successfully thanks to the support of her fellow club members and her horse, Ping.

Niamh also reflected on the festival’s vibrant atmosphere and the sense of community it fosters. As the Secretary of Mullingar Riding Club, Niamh had a busy lead-up to the festival, balancing her responsibilities with her preparation for the competition. The festival is a bustling event with various classes and activities, making it an exciting and challenging weekend for all participants.

Overcoming Challenges

The competition was not without its challenges. Originally, Christa was set to compete with her friend Judi Goor, but when Judi had to withdraw, Niamh stepped in with her horse, Diamond King Henry. Niamh admitted to feeling apprehensive about the pairing due to the lack of preparation time. “We never got to actually practise the test together and weren’t sure how our horses would get on,” she explained. Their preparation was limited to the warm-up before the test, where they trotted around together to see how Ping and Henry would respond to each other. 

Christa realised just before the pairs test that she had missed learning about three movements, causing concern as she was the lead horse. Despite this, she managed to stay on track, thanks in part to Niamh and Henry’s steady support. “Niamh and I both train with Heike Holstein, so we have a similar way of thinking and riding,” Christa noted. 

Christa and Niamh’s journey to their pairs dressage victory shows the impact of a strong, supportive friendship . Despite the last-minute change, the duo managed to perform exceptionally well and take home the red rosette.

Winning the pairs dressage event was a rewarding experience for both Christa and Niamh. “We were both thrilled,” Christa said. The generous sponsorship by The Irish Field added to the joy of taking home beautiful rosettes and glassware trophies. Niamh echoed this sentiment, highlighting the fun they shared during the competition. “It was great craic taking part in it, and something different that I hadn’t done before,” she remarked.

Individual Triumphs

In addition to their paired success, both riders excelled in their individual events. Christa won the medium dressage class despite challenging weather conditions. “Ping is pretty unflappable, but she was quite frightened by the strong winds,” Christa shared. Despite these obstacles, Ping performed exceptionally, earning a well-deserved win.

Niamh also had a great performance, winning the novice dressage class and placing third in the Irish Draught Showing Class. This was her first year at the novice level, and she was thrilled with the unexpected victory. “I couldn’t believe I won,” she admitted. Her success was attributed to her consistent training and preparation, particularly the sessions with Heike Holstein.

The Role of Support and Friendship

The support and friendship among the riders were crucial to their success at the festival. Christa credited her friends Judi, Niamh, and Tina for their encouragement and assistance throughout the event. “When you look up and see that your friends are there at the ringside, it means the world,” she said. Niamh also emphasised the importance of being there for each other, whether it was in the warm-up ring or capturing moments through photos and videos.

Training and Preparation

Both Christa and Niamh highlighted the significance of their training with Heike Holstein. Heike’s guidance has been instrumental in their development as riders. “Heike challenges both myself and Ping in the best way,” Christa said. Niamh added that Heike’s clear explanations and confidence-boosting lessons have been invaluable. “I always have lightbulb moments during her lessons,” Niamh remarked.

Looking Ahead

Christa and Niamh both have a relaxed approach to future goals, focusing on enjoying their training and taking things as they come. “We take it as it comes,” Christa said, noting that their plans often change. Niamh expressed a desire to keep improving, especially in dressage. “You can always do better,” she noted, highlighting the continuous learning aspect of the sport.

Advice for Aspiring Competitors

For those new to competing, both Christa and Niamh offered encouraging advice. “Set small targets, not giant goals,” Christa advised. She emphasised the importance of keeping things fun and achievable. Niamh recommended starting with a riding club, where riders of all levels are welcome. “Riding Club is a great place to start, with all levels of riders catered for,” she said, suggesting that newcomers attend as spectators first to get a feel for the environment.

The story of Christa Dillon and Niamh Macken at the AIRC festival is an incredible show of the power of friendship and support in the equestrian community. Their shared victory in the pairs dressage event, alongside their individual successes, highlights the strength of their partnership and the supportive community within the Mullingar Riding Club. Their journey serves as an inspiration to fellow riders, showing that with the right support and preparation, anything is possible.