AGE 8: The son of Bert and Geraldine Allen, Bertram takes his first riding lessons at a riding school in Wexford. Takes part in his first gymkhanas around Clonroche and Gorey.

AGE 9-10: Starts on the pony circuit with his pony Magic Shadow (who is living out retirement with the Allens). Is first pictured in The Irish Field files jumping Magic Shadow in 2005, aged 10.