Celebrities saddle up for the Ballycommon Sponsored Ride

With everyone chatting about Cheltenham at the moment, attention turns to Ballycommon this Sunday for the staging of the 2016 Ballycommon Sponsored Ride.
A big day out for all the family, this year the 'BSR' is being held to raise funds for a new all-inclusive playground for Kildangan National School.
A key attraction at the event this year is the 'I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Over It' challenge, in which 22 local 'celebrities' will attempt a horse jumping course. Most of the entrants are affiliated with a local pub and are trying to raise money for the Puckane school. The pub that raises the most sponsorship will host a presentation night in the weeks following the Ride.
The BSR also features a 20km series of trails through all manner of terrain, which upwards of 200 horse riders will attempt to negotiate. There are some 120 jumps on the course.
There will also be Pony Wall for young riders, and 'tractor taxis' will be in service to help spectators take in all the action, and these will be wheelchair accessible. There will be free food served throughout the day at various locations, including Kilodiernan where the riders will stop off for a half-time break. The BSR concludes at the Thatched Cottage, Ballycommon, with a barbeque, raffle and music. While there is no entry charge, those in attendance will be invited to make donations.
Kiladangan NS is greatly appreciative of the generosity shown by the local community over the recent months in its fundraising efforts.
“Many thanks to all the businesses who have supported the BSR brochure in the form of advertisement and the sponsoring of jumps on the course,” school management stated. “Thanks also to all those who have supported us through the rider sponsorship cards, the pupil sponsorship cards and the celebrity jockey cards currently in circulation. Thanks to all those who purchased merchandise, which is still available (see the Facebook page, Bally Common Sr) and will be available to purchase on the day.
“Official BSR merchandise includes hoodies, jackets, hats, wristbands, T-shirts, etc. We hope you can continue your support and attend the event on the day itself (March 20th). Remember, this day has something for everyone - horse lovers or not. It is sure to entertain young and old alike, and it is a free event. So take advantage of the anticipated good weather, bring the family out and jump aboard for the ultimate ride!”

Timetable of events

10.30am: Parade of celebrities from the Thatched Cottage to the 'Field of Dreams'
11am: Start of three puissance wall competitions (Celebrity Wall, Seymour Pony Wall, William's Wall)
12.30pm: Conclusion of wall competitions
12.45pm: Start of Ballycommon Sponsored Ride 2016
3pm: Half-way break at Kilodiernan, Puckane
4.45pm: Finish of BSR 2016 at Ballycommon.