BGS Class Affair, one of Ireland’s most talented young event horses, has recently changed hands. In a deal completed two weeks ago, it was revealed that Patrick Byrne’s son of OBOS Quality has travelled to Gloucestershire where he has been bought for former world champion Zara Tindall (Phillips).

Campaigned by Co Wexford young rider Maria Byrne, and prior to that by his owner Patrick, the seven-year-old BGS Class Affair represented Ireland in Le Lion d’Angers last year. The pair was on track for a second tilt at the world title, until Tindall voiced an interest last month.

“Someone had told Zara about him,” explained Maria. “First of all, she looked at the videos, and then she came and rode him herself. I’m just really happy that he went so well for her, and of course I hope that he will continue to do so.”

LOVE FOR THE IRISH HORSE

Tindall has always nurtured a love for the Irish horse, and, indeed, won a silver medal at the London Olympic Games aboard the William Micklem-bred High Kingdom by Master Imp. In more recent years, however, she has ridden a diverse range of horses and this will be a welcome return.

BGS Class Affair was bred in Co Kilkenny by Maurice O’Brien, out of the Laughton’s Flight mare Rubys Rosshaven Flight, and was sourced by Kathy Charlton as a three-year-old from Goresbridge sales. He was later ridden and then purchased by Patrick Byrne, who successfully produced him through the both young horse ranks and the event track.

“He was always a bit small for Patrick,” explained Maria. “I got on well with him so I took over the ride at the start of last year.”

The pair quickly formed a partnership, and racking up a speedy and formidable record they were runners-up in the CIC** at Kilguilkey in July, and made their CIC*** debuts when placed tenth at Millstreet in August.

“I was sad to see him go, but I think he has a big future ahead of him,” Byrne reflected.

Although still sidelined after a fall from a young horse at Ballinamona last month, the young rider is looking forward to returning to the saddle soon and teaming up with her three-star partner BGS Juicy Fruit next year.