IT is only right to begin this year’s amateur review by honouring the memory of two remarkable figures in the amateur community, Paddy Mullen and Peter Dargan, who both passed away late in the year. Their absence will be deeply felt among their fellow amateurs.

Paddy Mullen was deeply devoted to the sport of show jumping, and many credit him with transforming the landscape of amateur show jumping in Ireland. He advanced the sport in innovative ways, while allowing riders of all levels to take part. Paddy had a genuine love for the camaraderie among amateurs and was famously known as the last to leave any gathering, always savouring the lively atmosphere he helped create.