The Irish Sport Horse Industry Strategy Committee, which is committed to the development of the sector, is seeking submissions from those directly involved in the industry.

They are particularly interested in suggestions relating to breeding and production; marketing; knowledge transfer and training; and institutional support and policy.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Simon Coveney has recognised the value of the sport horse industry to the economy and has welcomed this initiative to put a plan in place for the commercial development of the sector. It is hoped that he will be in a position to provide additional funding to the sector to implement changes when presented with the final strategy by the committee.

However, to reach that point, an effective and realistic strategy must be developed. The committee has, and is, meeting with various key industry figures from the relevant sectors of the industry, but this next step of seeking submissions from those involved will be crucial to the overall strategy.

AWARDS

Last week, The Irish Field hosted its annual awards to honour the stars of the equestrian world. We were delighted to welcome all of the winners to the ceremony, most of whom had travelled from overseas to accept their prizes. The awards have a long history and five more worthy winners were added to the illustrious winners’ lists.

The day also witnessed the presentation of the inaugural Gain Horse Feeds/The Irish Field Star of the Year Award. Bertram Allen, who enjoyed a remarkably successful year in 2013, travelled home to receive the award. Gain Horse Feeds have confirmed their commitment to the industry by signing on to support the award for the next two years.

The first monthly winner of this year is Anthony Condon, who was nominated for his victory in Grand Prix at the Mediterranean Equestrian Tour in Spain last month.

A full report and pictures are published later in the paper. Elsewhere this week, Melanie Ashe outlines plans for her team of horses and there are two more hunting diaries from around Ireland.

saschageraghty@theirishfield.ie