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27 Mar 2026
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27 Mar 2026
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St Mary's College Senior Showjumping team
St Mary’s College in Derry is celebrating a historic sporting milestone as its Senior Showjumping team has officially qualified for the Balmoral Show for the first time in the school’s history.
The talented quartet of Eenna Hamilton (Year 14), Holly Northey (Year 12), Abbie-Rose McGeady (Year 12) and Clodagh Sharkey (Year 9) secured their place in the prestigious Bluegrass Horse Feeds Schools Show Jumping Open Team Championships.
The final will take place in the iconic Main Arena at the Balmoral Show on Saturday, May 16, 2026.
The competition is one of the most elite dates on the equestrian calendar, featuring only the top five pre-qualified school teams from the Ulster Region (includes Cavan, Monaghan and Donegal) and the top five school teams from the Equestrian Inter-schools Ireland League.
One of only 10 schools throughout Ireland to qualify, the qualification marks a significant achievement for the Derry school, highlighting the dedication and skill of the riders who have competed throughout the season to earn their spot on the national stage.
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The Balmoral Show, Northern Ireland's largest agri-food and spectator event, provides a world-class platform for young athletes. The St Mary’s team will compete in front of thousands of spectators in a high-pressure environment designed to test the very best school-level riders in the country.
The school expressed its sincere gratitude to Megan McGettigan at Lenamore Stables for her expert team coaching and preparation. A special tribute was also paid to Clare Doherty, who has been instrumental in overseeing and developing the school's equestrian department over many years.
School representatives also extended a heartfelt thank you to the parents, families, and supporters whose commitment has been vital in helping the riders reach this national stage.
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Staff, students, and the wider Derry community have extended their "massive congratulations" to the four students as they begin their final preparations for the May championships.
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