Name: Erin Dunseath
Age: 20
From: Randalstown, Antrim
Antrim native Erin Dunseath registered her first career win aboard her own Mountorra at Portrush for handler Gerald Quinn.
How did you get involved with horses?
I was kind of always into horses. My Dad used to ride when he was younger, that is where the initial interest came from. My sister got a horse and then I followed.
When I was younger I did the mounted games and then my sister Megan got into racing and I just followed in her footsteps then.
Where did you start off riding racehorses?
I started off with Ian Ferguson.
Where are you working at present?
I am now based with Gerald Quinn & Philip McBurney full time.
How did the connection with Gerald & Philip come about?
They are actually my closest yard to me at home, so I started working for them last year.
Do you ride out for anyone else?
I ride out at lunchtime for Sam Wilson, he brings horses over to Gerald and Philips to work so it’s handy.
Was it always the plan for you to take out your riders licence?
Oh it was yea, from a very early age!
My sister also rode in races in Australia, she came home last year and now works with me in Gerald and Philips.
Where did you buy Mountorra from ?
He was actually Jamie Quinn’s horse who is the farrier in the yard. He let me ride him last season and I bought him from him then.
From the time I first sat on him, I just loved him and we got on well from the start.
Did any of your family go to Portrush?
I had so much support on the day it was unreal to have all of my family and friends there.
You must have been thrilled to get your first winner on the board?
Yea, it was unreal! I still can’t believe it really. We have definitely watched the replay more than a couple of times.
What is the plan now for Mountorra now?
I will go for a winners race next with him and we will take it from there. He’s a great horse to have, he can teach me lots and he’s still only learning himself.
What are your ambitions for this season?
Just to get my name out and get more ride, that’s the aim. It’s great to have the likes of the ladies opens and novice riders races to aim for.
Any horses to follow for the season?
We have plenty of nice ones to run this season. We have started well this season, so hopefully we can keep it going.
Who is your biggest influence in racing?
Noel McParlan and Gerald Quinn, they have both been very good to me and are always helping me along. I school with Noel McParlan and he is always giving me tips, it’s great to have the likes of him in schooling.
I also have to mention my sister Megan, who has been brilliant to me.
Have you any interests outside of racing?
No it’s just all horses.
