The side saddle association of Ireland was founded in 1981 to promote  and assist side saddle  riders. Trish Hanson was the moving force , she was also the vice-president of the UK society. Ronnie and Judy MaMahon, Fania Mahony, Kathleen Carvill and the Curran family from Macetown Tara were also involved in the early days with much support from Mrs Rosemary Skrine from Wexford.

Patricia Hanson on Millmount RDS in 1963

Many days of instruction were organised and a large number of juniors were soon riding with confidence and polish, thanks to Trishs’ instructions.

As a result of this progress teams were sent to England for several years, competing at Newark and the Malvern where both senior and junior members competed  with wonderful results, bringing home plenty of rosettes and championships.

Team in Newark in the 1980's

This year with the change of date for the 2012 RDS Dublin Horse Show  it is hoped to send a team to the Side Saddle champoinship show in Malvern on the first week of August.

Over the years the association have purchased a number of saddles which are available to rend, and instruction will be organised as members require.