DRESSAGE Ireland (DI) has expressed great sadness at learning of the passing of former chairman, Paul Byrne, on Sunday, June 23rd.

In a statement, DI said: “Paul was one of life’s true gentlemen. For all who were fortunate enough to know him as a friend and work with him, it was both a privilege and a pleasure. Paul was a very knowledgeable horseman. A native of Dublin, he was a former show jumping and eventing competitor. Paul and his late wife Pamela competed at numerous equestrian events and shows for many years. Both were members of the Royal Dublin Society. He was a former SJI course designer and a strong supporter of the founding of the then Irish Dressage Society (now Dressage Ireland) in 1989.”

Paul retired from Trinity College Dublin in 2002 after 33 years service in the chemistry department and he became chair of Dressage Ireland in 2003.

Paul’s funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 6th, at 11am in Rathfarnham Parish Church of Ireland followed by cremation in Mt Jerome Crematorium.

Passing of Michael Murphy Snr

THE Board of Directors, standing committees and membership of Show jumping Ireland have extended their deepest sympathies to the Murphy family on the death of Michael Murphy Snr, who passed away last Saturday, June 22nd.

Michael is the father of current National Chairman, Christy Murphy and was a longstanding supporter, owner and member of Show jumping Ireland. He will be sadly missed by all his friends, family and those who knew him.

Michael’s Funeral Mass was held on Wednesday, June 26th, in St Finian’s Church, Newcastle, followed by burial in Newcastle Cemetery.