THE death of the class one Connemara stallion, Kilmullen Fionn, occurred at Watervalley Stud, Co Galway following a heart attack last Saturday.

The stallion, who acquired both Grade A and Silver Disc Status as a show jumper in Wales, was born in 1993 and bred by Dermot Dunne in Co Laois. Kilmullen Fionn was also a successful competitor in Irish circles, which saw him acquire over 540 SJI points and gain favourable publicity after being spot-lighted in an article by Nicolas O’Hare published in The Irish Field in 2008.

Along with his full-brother and international eventing pony, Iratu Varagnac, he was regarded as being among the most noteworthy produce of champion stallion Abbeyleix Fionn. It is little surprise, therefore, that his rich pedigree and accolades left him as a popular choice among breeders. Following his return from Britain, Kilmullen Fionn served his first breeding season with Keith Murphy, Four Mile House, Co Roscommon and a subsequent six years at Watervalley Stud, Co Galway until his unexpected death took place. His offspring are already holding much promise and will undoubtedly be his greatest legacy in the years to come.

Irish Draught show

THE Irish Draught Horse Breeders’ National Show will be held at Punchestown racecourse next Saturday, August 29th. Boasting a prize fund of €8,000, the show features several new classes. Please visit www.idhba.ie for more details.

Moate show

THE 174th Moate Agricultural Show takes place tomorrow (Sunday), featuring the All Ireland Filly Foal Championship. All are welcome to this great family day out featuring live music, a dog show and best dressed lady competition.

Iverk Show

IRELAND’s oldest agricultural show, Iverk, is being held today (Saturday) at Piltown, Co Kilkenny and promises a great day out with a full range of show jumping and dressage classes as well as fairground attractions. Founded in 1826, there are hundreds of agri-stands as well as fashion, fun, Army displays, dog show, arts and crafts and much more.

Interschools league

TRI Equestrian announced their sponsorship of the Equestrian Interschools Ireland league which will begin in Wexford on September 13th next and culminates after 32 events on April 17th with a total prize fund of over €10,000. Helen O’Neill of the Equestrian Interschools League Committee, thanked TRI for its generous sponsorship.