INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS FOR SADDLE DESIGNER MARTIN
WEXFORD designer Martin Ryan of Bua Saddles is taking the industry by storm with a cantilevered saddle already sold in 17 countries.
Martin, from Gorey, who came up with the saddle concept as a student back in 2005, is a prime example of the level of talent and craftsmanship that Ireland has to offer. With Enterprise Ireland’s help, Martin received funding early on for design patents and from there the saddle has grown in popularity.
Working from the onset out of Nova UCD, he pursued commercialisation. He eventually gained investment from well-known businessman and ex-shipping executive Austin Conboy and Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO) director and former managing director of Irish Continental Group’s container division, Liam Lacey.
The three jointly set up LAM Technologies, which trades as Bua Saddles, in 2012. Launched in 2015, the Bua Cantilevered Mark 1 saddle has grown from strength to strength,
A winner of numerous industry awards, the saddle is used by leading riders in a variety of disciplines.
Following on from the success of Bua Cantilevered Saddle Mark 1, the company recently announced the launch of the Mark 2, which incorporates new features which will make this saddle an attractive option for not only showjumping and eventing, but also for endurance riding, Le Trec, para-riders and riding for the disabled.
Bua Cantilevered saddles differ in design from traditional saddles as they are designed around a cantilevered suspension, a feature which recognises that the physiology of horse and rider as being different.
It is because of its unique design that it has become a popular choice with riders who are returning from falls or for those with back or leg injuries as the cantilevered tree allows riders to stay more comfortable in the saddle for longer periods of time. The upgraded design in the Mark 2 is once again being hailed as revolutionary as it includes a number of new different and unique applications to increase comfort and performance. A lightweight saddle it is superb aid to the performance of the sport horse returning to work after back related issues.
Those riders who have opted to ride in a Bua saddle include eventer Sam Dempsey, Daryl Walker, Lucy Loughton, World No. 1 Endurance rider Nicki Thorne. For more information see www.buasaddles.com