Professionals offer their expertise to young breeders

The ISH Young Breeders Programme is aimed is aimed at young people aged between 14 and 25 years of age.

Training events are principally focused on building knowledge and confidence in assessing conformation, movement and jump of sport horses. The discipline of presenting horses in hand is also part of the programme and the Irish team now has its sights on the World Championships in Austria in July 2019.

Training events will be held throughout Ireland in the coming months, but there is no requirement to attend all events.

The next training session takes place at Ennisnag Stud in Kilkenny on Saturday, March 24. This training event is not only an opportunity to assess mares and youngstock, but also discuss mating plans and choice of stallions.

Further training days will be held at Lissyegan Stables, Ahascragh, Ballinasloe, Co Galway (May 12), Army Equitation School, McKee Barracks, Cabra, Dublin 7 (June 25), Tiernan Gill, Church Road, Ballina, Co Mayo (July 18) and Kildalton College, Piltown, Co Kilkenny (September 29).

Enthusiasts are particularly invited to attend the Young Breeders Seminar at the Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone on Wednesday, April 4.

A super line-up of industry professionals and speakers include Irish National Stud CEO Cathal Beale, Annie and Katie Madden of FenuHealth, and British international show jumper William Funnell.

Commenting on the ethos behind the ISH Young Breeders Programme, co-ordinator Wendy Conlon of Teagasc said: “We have so many wonderful professionals in the equine industry in Ireland and many of these are giving up their time for these young people so they can develop their eye, confidence, skill and knowledge.

“This is a great opportunity for young breeders and the upcoming seminar will be of particular benefit to them.”

See www.teagasc.clr.events for registration details.