Teenager eyes up spot on national team

A Cavan Town teenager showcased her immense talent on the biggest national stage, and is eyeing up a place in future Irish teams.

Riding her pony Renee, Alex Kiernan won the qualifier in the 148th Dublin Horse Show and then achieved place in the 148 1.30m Championship in the RDS Main Arena. The 15-year-old was also the highest placed lady rider and best placed Northern Region rider. To top off a fabulous week, Renee was the only pony to finish the week without any faults.

Alex’s RDS performance follows on from coming second overall in the National Pony Premier earlier this year.

“I was absolutely delighted,” said Alex who will be entering TY in The Royal School in September. “All the hard work had paid off. I was particularly happy with my pony’s performance. She was amazing on the day and tried her very best for me.

What makes her success all the more impressive is that Alex, whose parents are Arlene Nee and Packie Kiernan of Strageliffe, doesn’t come from a horse background.

“It was always my dream to ride at the RDS from I was a very young girl.”

“It was fantastic to achieve my goal this year. There was a lot of work beforehand and I would like to thank everyone who helped me get there, especially my trainer Simon Trent whose dedication and expert tuition were invaluable.”

Alex will hope to build on this form when she progresses up from ponies in 2024.

“I am moving into horses at the end of the year and I hope to be selected for one of the Irish teams to compete abroad.”