Nations Cup team announced

THE Underwriting Exchange Irish senior show jumping team kick off their 2025 Nations Cup season in Sharjah on February 2nd, and will see the return of Trevor Breen to international team action for the first time since his career-threatening injury last May. Breen was placed in an induced coma after suffering three fractures to his neck and spine, following a fall from Highland President during the Grand Prix of Hamburg. Joining Breen and Highland President will be his brother Shane with Z7 Oilina, Mikey Pender with HHS Calais (ISH) and David Simpson with Mambo NR 5 B.

Blake said: “We’re very much looking forward to getting the campaign up and running and Sharjah is the perfect starting point, as we build towards the first leg of the Longines League of Nations in Abu Dhabi.

“The four guys are proven performers in the green jacket and obviously I’m delighted to see Trevor back representing his country after his fall and injuries. His recovery has been remarkable, because everyone was very worried, and it shows the level of his resilience and character that he is already back jumping in a Nations Cup so early.”

MEP Nina Carberry pushes for transport changes in Europe

MEP Nina Carberry has raised concerns about the EU’s proposed transport regulations, ahead of a committee hearing with the European Court of Auditors in Brussels next week. “The proposed animal transport law takes a one-size-fits-all approach and ignores the unique needs of equine transport,” said Carberry, Ireland’s only full member of the European Parliament’s Transport Committee.

While fully supporting better enforcement of animal welfare standards, Carberry said she fears the current draft law could disrupt Europe’s bloodstock, racing and sport horse industries, if not amended. “We are obliged to transport our animals to the very highest global standards, and I absolutely support better enforcement of the rules. However, it is critical that horses being transported for breeding or sport are treated differently to the transport of other livestock, with rules tailored to their specific needs. That’s what I am working to amend.”

See our Transport feature on page 73 for further details.

AIRC bit fitting webinar

THE Association of Irish Riding Clubs (AIRC) has announced an upcoming webinar featuring two esteemed professionals in the equine industry. With over 25 years of experience, Scott Rawson has established himself as a leading expert in horse care. Over the last five years, Scott has honed his skills in bit fitting and selection through extensive training with Bombers Bits. Marita O’Loughlin brings a wealth of knowledge as a LANTRA Accredited Advanced Independent Bit and Bridle Fitting Consultant. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Equine Studies and is a British Horse Society Senior Coach. Registered with the Directory of Equine Fitters, Marita offers in-person clinics and consultations throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. To register, visit airc.ie/bit-fitting-webinar.

King clinic spots on offer

BRITISH multi medal-winner Mary King will be back in Ireland next month, spending two days teaching at Danescroft Equestrian outside Lisburn on Friday and Saturday, February 14th and 15th. There are spaces available both days for riders at all levels. For further details, please contact Karen Dixon on 0044-7850-396103.