Chair hosts a reception for local Pony Club member, Lilly McBride

Recently the Chair, Councillor John McClaughry, hosted a reception for Lilly McBride, London International Horse Show Mini Major Champion.

The following is a copy of the Chairs speech made at the reception:

Good evening Councillors, ladies and gentlemen

As Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I am delighted to welcome you all here to the Townhall, Enniskillen for this reception in honour of Lilly McBride, London International Horse Show Mini Major Champion.

The prestigious London International Horse Show Mini Major competition is a unique, once in a lifetime opportunity for young 128cm pony riders to compete at a 5 Star International Show.  Just eight lucky competitors from qualifiers which take place across the UK are invited to participate.  I understand you qualified in July 2024 at The Meadows Equestrian Centre in Lurgan meaning you were just one of two representatives for Area 17 which covers the whole of Northern Ireland.

The competition took place on 18 December 2024, the first day of the London International Horse Show event, and you were paired with leading GB Showjumper Matthew Sampson.

I am told that you introduced yourself to Matthew and you told him not to let you down so the pressure was on him and he knew he had a partner who was determined.

You both completed a clear round in just 21.50 seconds which has been described as the fastest, jaw-dropping clear round.  At the age of just 10, this was your first experience of an elite competition and I am told that your composure and control of the pony was remarkable.

This success is even more impressive as you have only been pony riding since the age of 6, joining the local Pony Club in 2021.

As well as enjoying the victory, this special competition offers valuable mentorship, learning and the transfer of knowledge from experienced showjumpers.  I understand that many who have enjoyed success at the Mini Major Competition go on to enjoy success in the future at the International Horse Show.  I am confident that the talent and confidence you have shown at such a young age in an elite arena, you will achieve this.

On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and on my own behalf, I would like to congratulate you on your outstanding success winning the London International Horse Show Mini Major Champion title.  You have done yourself, your family and friends, you Pony Club, your District, Area 17 and Northern Ireland proud.  I wish you many years of success in the future.  Thank you.