Sad passing of breeder Pádraig Hynes

THE Connemara pony community was shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Pádraig Hynes on Sunday, April 1.

On Sunday, before commencing the annual Spring Stallion parade, the Connemara Pony Breeders Society observed a minute’s silence for their great friend and colleague.

Pádraig, stalwart of the world-famous Canal ponies, leaves a legacy spanning over half a century, marked by his exceptional dedication to showcasing the beauty and grace of ponies.

CPBS president Daragh Ó Tuairisg said: “Our deepest sympathies go out to his beloved wife Mary, his family, and friends during this difficult time. May the memories of Pádraig’s remarkable life bring comfort and solace, and may he rest in eternal peace”. Pádraig’s funeral mass took place at St Brigid Church, Ballinafad, on Thursday, April 4th. A full tribute will appear in an upcoming edition.

Breeder networking event in Tullamore

Connect, Select and Grow, a sport horse breeder event consisting of sessions on networking, stallion selection and growing your market, takes place in the Bridge House Hotel, Tullamore, on Thursday April 18th, from 7pm-9.30pm.

Capacity is limited to 100 attendees, and booking is essential. Tickets are available to purchase until Thursday, April 11th, or until event capacity is reached.

The event will begin with a networking session, where each attendee will be given an opportunity to introduce themselves and their respective breeding programme.

Next will be a session on goal setting, key considerations when selecting stallions for your mares, as well as objective information sources and tools.

Part three will use industry observations, content considerations, practical tips and tools to allow attendees to reflect on their current digital presence, and consider ways in which this can be professionalised.

For further information, visit www.michaeldoherty.ie/insights

Brennanstown milestone marked by AIRE

THE Association of Irish Riding Establishments AGM was held recently at Brennanstown Riding School, Co Wicklow, the same year as the centre celebrates 50 years in business with AIRE. It was most appropriate to stage the event in Brennanstown as Jane Kennedy was involved in the set up of AIRE in 1974. Over 30 people attended for the meeting and enjoyed the hospitality of the Bloomer family home for lunch.

Colin Hannan of Glen Aire Stables and Chairman of AIRE presented flowers to Jane Kennedy in respect of the 50-year anniversary and to Rita Dunne of Kells Equestrian Centre, former Chairperson and Director of AIRE for many years, who has now retired from the Board.