He had been a top 148cms competitor both at home and abroad, and was ridden in the past by some of Ireland’s brightest young riders.

By Ard Talisman out of the Grange Sand Sparrow mare Coillchru Esmerelda, Sillogue Darkie was bred by Eamonn Briscoe and remained in his ownership since. Initially ridden by Eamonn Jnr, he was then produced by future national champion Alexander Butler.