THE important role agricultural shows have in rural life and the sport horse sector was affirmed by Andrew Doyle, Minister of State for Food, Forestry and Horticulture in Roscommon last Saturday.

Speaking at the launch of the Irish Shows Association (ISA) yearbook in Hannon’s Hotel, the Wicklow TD praised the ethos, spirit and culture of agricultural shows, adding that without their presence, “all of that tradition, all of that entertainment would be lost” in Irish life. No matter what happens in Brexit, we will always be a rural-based country with rural traditions,” he said, commenting on the UK’s future departure from the EU.

He highlighted the value of local shows and gymkhanas as a learning ground for international riders, citing Bertram Allen and Francis Connors as examples of riders who started off on this circuit. Referring to the importance of the farmer-breeder, Minister Doyle said: “Without a doubt, the farmer-breeder base is important, same as with the thoroughbreds. As someone said, ‘It’s an elegant way of losing money’ but it’s still a tradition, it’s in the blood.”

Described by ISA president Pat Corbet as a ‘bible’ for exhibitors, the 2017 yearbook lists details of 130 shows, stretching from April to October. Some date changes include Athenry (May 28th), Ballinasloe (September 23rd-24th) and Scariff (June 10th). Carnew (July 15th) and Enniscorthy (June 24th) make a welcome reappearance while Ballivor, Castlerea and Roundfort are three absentees this year.

Details on All Ireland qualifier venues, show dates and eligibility for the ISA horse and pony championships are included in the 2017 yearbook, available to purchase on www.irishshows.org (€12 including p&p) or from local show secretaries.

Two change of All Ireland final venues to note are the yearling colt/gelding final at Barryroe (July 8th) and the sport horse colt final at Clarecastle (July 30th).