THOSE attending the recent Kerry Bog Pony seminar held at the Anner Hotel, Thurles, were treated to a really exciting genetics presentation.

Paul Flynn, head of research and development at Weatherbys Scientific, addressed the seminar and although genetics is such a complex subject, his talk was absolutely riveting.

You could have heard a pin drop as Paul explained how he had compared the DNA of the Kerry Bog Pony with 40 other equine breeds. He showed how the DNA evidence derived from the hair follicles taken by a veterinary surgeon when the foal is first registered can be used to generate an extensive genotype profile for each pony.

This project utilised recent advancements in molecular technology which allowed for analysis of 660,000 genetic sites across each Kerry Bog Pony genome. Paul studied 192 breeding ponies to accurately assess levels of genetic diversity and inbreeding that exists within the breed. He also showed how the Kerry Bog Pony relates to a number of other breeds and where it occurs on a phylogenetic tree displaying other landrace breeds.

Paul took the seminar step by step on a journey ever deeper into his results. From a world wide context, to a northern European context, to the British Isles, and then to the local with each pony plotted based on its genetic make-up. It was an exceptionally interesting talk presented in a manner that everyone could understand. The results will be used to plan a conservation program for this rare breed which is still critically endangered.

International pony judge Jane Darragh explained what a judge looks for in Mountain and Moorland classes and how to present a pony properly. There were a lot of questions afterwards as people brought up queries about hunter classes versus M&M classes and how to trim a pony without taking away from its ‘natural state’. The traditional Kerry Bog Pony owner does not know a lot about the showing world and so the opportunity to ask questions was very welcome.

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Folke Rohrssen, veterinary surgeon and successful International FEI Driving competitor, explained how he takes a pony from unbroken to safely pulling a carriage on the public road. The process starts with teaching the pony to stand still and he stressed the need to have a helper on hand and to take things slowly. The secret of success is repetition, repetition, repetition.

Folke travels frequently to the continent competing at the highest level. At home in Tipperary as well as working as a Vet he takes in horses and ponies for training and breaking to harness. His talk was full of interest with great illustrations.

The seminar concluded with the launch of a judging DVD filmed with the late Countess Merveldt who assesses a number of Kerry Bog Ponies, pointing out their good and bad points. It is hoped that this DVD will help judges who may not know the Kerry Bog Pony become more familiar with the breed. It will be distributed to all pony judges and will be available to order at www.kerrybogpony.ie