Mounted games a big success

This was the first time the European Championships were held in Northern Ireland with 44 teams from 14 European Countries competing at Craigavon Borough Council’s Silverwood Arena in Lurgan. In total there were 300 competitors and about 700 families and visitors to the area.

Countries represented included France, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Belgium, Italy, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Ireland (World Champions) as well as the home countries of England, Scotland, Wales and, of course, Northern Ireland

“I’m delighted that we were able to welcome our European visitors to Craigavon. I know they had a great championship and that they left with a really good impression of Craigavon and the warm welcome they received.”

Mounted games is an equestrian discipline where riders and their ponies compete in very fast relay races. The riders require a high degree of athletic ability, good riding skills, hand-to-eye coordination, determination and a competitive spirit. Competitions ran daily from August 18-21.

Silverwood has now firmly established itself on the MGA international map and it is hoped to host major equestrian events in the future.

Meanwhile the Chair of the Leisure Services Committee, Alderman Meta Crozier took some time out to visit the teams at Craigavon’s Golf and Ski Centre where the young people enjoyed the climbing wall, snow tubing and, of course, skiing. All in close proximity to the Silverwood Arena all part of the package that secured this major event in the first place.