2005 Dressage at Devon - American Junior Riders Championships

Meet the Riders - Kelly Gormley and Irioso

15-year-old Kelly Gormley is no stranger to horses. She has been riding since she was five years old and has been addicted to horses ever since. The junior in high school juggles grades, church, dressage and downhill slalom skiing each winter. “It can be a challenge to make sure to devote enough time to each of my commitments, but somehow we find a way. My parents have been great about helping me realize many different dreams.”

Irioso, the 15-year-old chestnut Dutch gelding (x Purioso) came into Kelly’s life just last year in a very unique situation. The horse had been imported from the Netherlands a year prior to Kelly’s introduction to him and had been out to pasture as his current owner had other commitments. Kelly took a chance in buying him and put him back into work. His muscle tone came back along with his endurance, and the pair put in a solid season this year at Third Level and Junior classes.

Irioso came into trainer Laurie Moore’s barn to be sold, and Laurie immediately realized his potential compatibility with Kelly. “Irioso is such a wonderfully trained horse. He is perfect for what Kelly needs at this point in her riding career and I love having him in my barn.”

Kelly and Irioso had a stellar season this year earning 23 blue ribbons out of 25 classes ridden and a season average of a 67.218%. Kelly’s hope for next year include riding some fourth level tests and hopefully finishing off the season by riding her first PSG. Kelly is thrilled to have the chance to represent her country this year at the Junior Dressage Team Championships held at Devon. She is on Team Freedom along with three other girls and is hopeful for her team.

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