Cross country ride to take place in Limerick in memory of gifted horseman

THE LATE Joe Taylor was a man who stood out from the crowd said friend, Eamonn Gleeson.

Joe, from Monemore, Knocklong, passed away after an illness in June. He was only 52. His family and friends have joined together to organise a memorial cross country ride for the gifted horseman. 

It takes place in Knockcarron, Knocklong this Sunday, October 21 at noon. Some are even travelling from England. All funds raised will go to Milford Hospice.

Joe was very well known in hunting and farming circles as he was involved with the Scarteen Hunt for 17 years, as well as running a very successful suckler herd on his home farm.

“He was just a real down to earth man. He loved hunting and doing the thing right. He just stood out from the crowd, any time anyone ever came here he did his very best for them. He was very welcoming,” said Eamonn, from Dromkeen.

On Sunday there will be a jumping course and non-jumping ride in the scenic countryside for all ages.

“If you have a horse come along on the day and bring your money. People are coming from all over Ireland and England as well to take part.

“A lot of people are just coming to support it as well. There will be a bucket collection, a raffle and refreshments on the day,” said Eamonn. It is €100 to take part in the jumping ride and €50 in the non jumping ride.

Months of hard work have been put in by the organising committee to ensure its success and to celebrate the life of Joe. Married to Maria, they had one son, Mark.

Eamonn thanked local landowners for kind permission to use their land.

“Only for them we wouldn’t be doing it.  We are very fortunate to have such good and loyal land owners to allow us run this event in Joe's memory and to help give something back to management and staff off Milford Hospice for what they have done for so many people. We all know the top class care they give to people in need of it in our area,” said Eamonn.

For more information log onto the Joe Taylor memorial cross country ride in aid of Milford Hospice Facebook page. All welcome in Knockarron, Knocklong this Sunday.