Special evening for David Young

DAVID Young of Horetown Equestrian (pictured, centre) was presented with the Qualified Saddle Fitter’s certificate by Catherine Baker, President of the Society of Master Saddlers, and eventer extraordinaire William Fox-Pitt at the Celebration of Equine Fitters, which took place at Saddlers’ Hall, London on Monday, February 3rd. Congratulations David!

Shows gain IPS affiliation

THE Irish Pony Society has welcomed three newly affiliated shows for the upcoming season. First is Clonmel Agricultural Show, scheduled for July 6th, which also offers two HOYS qualifiers for the NPS M&M Ridden Connemara and the Price Family In-Hand Supreme Championship. Kildysart Show has also become IPS-affiliated and will be held on Sunday, August 3rd. The third show announced as newly affiliated to the IPS is Bandon Agricultural Show, due to be held on May 18th.

Horses and health symposium

ON Monday, March 10th, Horse Knowing in collaboration with Horse Sport Ireland, is running its inaugural symposium titled ‘The Evolving Role of Horses For Human Health’. The event will take place at the Clonshire Equestrian Centre, Co Limerick. The All-Ireland symposium will feature a number of interactive demonstrations, with equine-assisted practitioners from across the country. A selection of speakers will also present on some of the equine-assisted training and opportunities currently available. This one-day event promises to be inspiring, for both equine-assisted professionals, service users, and also for the wider equestrian sector, allowing for friendly networking and professional exchange. Initially sold out, the event has now moved to a bigger space and tickets are still available.To book visit bit.ly/3Whrp3s. Cost is €20 and a light lunch is included. There are five HSI CPD points awarded for attendance.

Charity cross-country chase

THE Ballymacad Hunt will host a charity cross-country chase and fun run/trek on Sunday, March 9th, in aid of Niall Mahon.

Mahon, who comes from Dromone, spent a year working in the kennels as whipper-in of the Ballymacads a few years ago. He previously worked for the Kildare Foxhounds, worked in hunt service for the Morepeth and Cotswolds in England, before returning to Ireland to become Huntsman of The Westmeath Foxhounds.

He is now a 39-year-old father of three and was diagnosed with Cardiac Sarcoidosis in 2023. Since then, Niall has undergone extensive treatment. Unfortunately, the disease has advanced, leaving him unable to work and needing further treatment, which will be ongoing for life.

The fundraising event will start at Moylagh, Oldcastle (A82YY57) at 1pm on March 9th, followed by an auction and refreshments. For those who cannot attend, but wish to donate, please contact Rachel on 087 296 9137. Book your place via tsplainsailing.com/org/bh#event-57209.