Does it always rain in Moygownagh?
On Sunday the 8th December the North Mayo Harriers set out on their annual meet. There was a great turn out from across the ages, with little ones on ponies and old ones on big horses, and all experiences trotting along side each other in the drizzly rain! I was riding a young 14.2 pony, I had just sat on and was given a tremendous ride, and it was a much more sedate affair after last weeks hunt around Aclare, Toulestrane and Banada. We trotted along the Owenmore river, and the first set of jumps were all nice and natural and although I was near the rear not all the jumps were demolished, as the followers on foot were at hand to replace poles, logs and barrels. My little mount took to them by storm and gave me great confidence to take them on without taking off, and I felt assured of a good days hunt! We did a short bit or road work along the bogs and lanes, and even though it was a dreary day you could see for miles. A short while along the road and down another string of jumps we arrived at Glenmore House where we were served mulled wine, hot chocolate, mince pies, variety of cakes, sweets crisps and some of the older folks even got brandy. Chairman Brian Tuffy led the thanks and praises to everyone in the house and happy birthdays to hunt members Cian Garrett and glamorous granny Glyn Morgan.
What followed was a string of fences suitable for all levels and anything that was big – you could go round, it was brilliant, when we got to the other end everyone was talking about the string of fences, the question on everyone’s lips was ‘Did you jump the big one?’ it was big enough and I wasn’t brave enough to give it a go myself but most of the kids did! We went up and over them again and back down to the start, it wasn’t a long hunt but it’s a good one!
After untacking and loading horses into the boxes we descended onto Moygownagh Community Centre. Where we were treated to a fine feast! Where the ladies of the town fed over a hundred riders and followers! The soup and sandwiches was delicious and much needed. Hunt members put there hands in their pockets to support a raffle and everyone had a great time! Once again thank you Moygownagh! Next Hunt is Sunday 22nd December at the Quays in Ballina and then St Stevens day Pullaheaney, then Boniconlon on New Years day! Contact Ita on 0876497046 for CAP information
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