Horse Sport Ireland High Performance Eventing Manager, Sam Griffiths, has announced the squad which will represent Ireland at the inaugural FEI Under-25 Eventing World Championship.Taking place on home soil in Millstreet, the event offers Irish riders the opportunity to perform in front of a home crowd at a world championship for the first time, with the famous Irish support cheering them on.Griffiths has selected previous European medal winners Godfrey Gibbons with Ballyvillane OBOS (ISH) (Direct Reserve: Kilnamac Kasu (ISH)), Jennifer Kuehnle with Sammy Davis Junior (ISH) (Direct Reserve: CDS Cairnview Romolu (ISH)), and Tom Nestor with Cooley Diamond Dancer (ISH). Completing the team is Maddison Peries with Vivero DH Z (ZANG).Also in the squad, competing as an individual is Isny ODonnell with Vital DK Z (ZANG).Speaking on the announcement, Griffiths told of his excitement about the squad selected and their ambition to impress on home soil.We are really excited to unveil our riders who will be competing at the U25 World Championships at Millstreet, he said. We have some very strong combinations, and from managements point of view, we have a real chance of competing for medals on Sunday.If things go our way, we believe we can challenge for both team and individual medals. The team has come together really well; weve got some excellent partnerships, and we are determined to put on a top performance at our home event.The FEI Under-25 Eventing World Championship begins on July 21st and runs until July 26th at Millstreet, Co. Cork.Breeding:Ballyvillane OBOS (ISH) 2013 gelding by OBOS Quality 004 out of Gleesons Coolcooran. Bred by Tim Gleeson. Owned by Richard Ames & Robbie KearnsKilnamac Kasu (ISH) 2017 gelding by Kannan out of Kilnamac Sue. Bred by James J Ryan. Owned by Marie DunneSammy Davis Junior(ISH) 2009 gelding by Imperial Hights out of Cornasus Connie. Breeder: Amanda Vogan. Owned by Frank & Margaret Kinsella and Cathal Daniels.CDS Cairnview Romolu (ISH) 2011 gelding by Omar out of Cairnview Grace. Breeder: Geraldine Quinn. Owned by Cathal DanielsCooley Diamond Dancer (ISH) 2012 gelding by Jack of Diamonds out of Lucy Blue. Breeder: Clare McDonnell. Owned by David NestorThe post High Performance Eventing Manager Griffiths names U-25 World Championship squad appeared first on .

Confidence with Every Ride: Choosing the Right Jockey Skull CapWhether you're training at home, competing at the highest level or simply enjoying leisure rides, we know that every ride is driven by passion, partnership and trust. Enjoying being in the saddle starts with the confidence that you're protected, allowing you to focus on your horse, so that you can perform at your best.A jockey skull cap is one of the most important pieces of equestrian equipment you'll own. More than just a competition requirement, it's designed to help protect you should the unexpected happen.The new Premier Equine Artemis jockey skull caps have been designed around three key rider needs: certified protection, secure fit and lasting comfort. The design brings together every essential feature required for everyday riding through to more demanding schooling sessions. The collection was created to enable riders to focus fully on their performance with confidence.Why The Right Jockey Skull Cap MattersHorse riding carries risk at every level, from everyday schooling to competition. Falls can happen unexpectedly, regardless of a rider's experience level. Investing in a high-quality, properly fitted helmet should always be a priority. When you invest in a correctly fitted certified riding hat, it helps to:Absorb impact energy during a fall.Remain securely positioned throughout an accident.Provide consistent protection without movement or instability.Offer lasting comfort during long rides, training or competitions.Understanding BSI Kitemark PAS 015:2011One of the most recognised certifications in the UK equestrian industry is BSI Kitemark PAS 015:2011 its regarded as one of the most rigorous equestrian helmet standards.PAS 015:2011 is a British safety specification. It was developed specifically for equestrian helmets. The safety specification subjects helmets to demanding tests that assess their ability to protect riders from a variety of impact scenarios. This includes:Impact absorptionPenetration resistanceDeformationRetention strengthStabilityThe BSI Kitemark PAS 015:2011is one of the recognised safety standards accepted by theBritish Horse Society (BHS) for riding helmets used in approved activities. It provides riders a strong level of confidence that their helmet has been independently tested and manufactured to consistently high-quality standards.About EN 1384:2023Another important certification found on modern horse riding helmets is EN 1384:2023 which is the latest European safety standard for equestrian helmets.Many premium riding skull caps now carry both PAS 015:2011 and EN 1384:2023 certification. Premier Equine designed the Artemis jockey skull caps collection with these standards, demonstrating compliance with multiple recognised safety requirements.Benefits of a Dial FitA dial fit system allows riders to fine-tune the fit using an adjustment dial positioned at the rear of the helmet. With just a simple turn, the internal cradle gently tightens or loosens. Creating a personalised fit and feel is exactly what Premier Equine aims to provide with the Artemis collection. Benefits of a dial fit system include:Quick and precise adjustment.Improved helmet stability.Reduced movement while riding.Enhanced comfort across longer periods in the saddle.Easier fitting when wearing different hairstyles or base layers.For younger riders or those who require something between sizes, a dial adjustment system can also provide greater flexibility while still maintaining a secure fit. Ultimately, a secure helmet remains correctly positioned during riding, which helps it to function as intended should an accident occur.Harness Adjusters: Small Feature, Big DifferenceModern harness adjusters allow riders to customise the position of the straps around the ears and beneath the chin to achieve an even and balanced fit. A correctly adjusted harness should:Sit comfortably beneath the chin.Lie flat against the face.Prevent excessive helmet movement.Keep the helmet secure without discomfort.Poorly adjusted straps can reduce helmet stability, even if the shell itself fits correctly. Taking a few extra minutes to adjust the harness properly can significantly improve both comfort and safety for every ride.Removable LinersMany premium jockey skull caps (including the Artemis collection) now feature removable, washable liners that improve hygiene while helping maintain a consistent fit over time. A removable liner offers several practical advantages:Easy cleaning after regular use.Improved freshness during warmer weather.Better moisture management.Extended helmet lifespan through routine maintenance.The ability to replace worn liners without replacing the entire helmet (where replacement liners are available).Clean and well-maintained liners also help ensure the helmet continues to fit as intended. This also reduces the chance of unwanted movement caused by compressed or worn internal padding.Ventilation Systems in Riding HatsAn effective ventilation system helps regulate airflow through the helmet, reducing a build-up of heat and allowing riders to stay focused. As fresh air enters the helmet, warm air can escape through integrated ventilation channels, helping to improve breathability without compromising the helmet's protective structure. A well-ventilated horse riding helmet like the Artemis jockey skull cap can offer several practical benefits, including:Improved airflow for enhanced comfort.Reduced heat and moisture build-up.Better temperature regulation during longer rides.Increased focus by minimising distractions caused by overheating.A fresher wearing experience when combined with a removable, washable liner.By balancing protection, fit and airflow, a well-designed ventilation system helps ensure your helmet remains comfortable from the first ride to the last.Where Safety Meets ComfortComfort plays a significant role in rider performance. This is particularly the case during long training sessions, competitions and warm weather riding. Engineered with practicality at its core, the Artemis offers a secure, stable fit that adapts to the riders head, creating consistent comfort throughout every ride. Its lightweight construction helps reduce fatigue, while integrated ventilation supports airflow to keep you cool during intense periods. The result is a skull cap that feels unobtrusive yet reassuringly protective, whether youre hacking out, training, or competing.Finding the Right FitNo two riders have the same head shape, making individual fitting extremely important. When trying on a helmet, follow these steps:The helmet should sit level across the forehead.It should feel snug without creating painful pressure points.The chin strap should fasten securely while allowing comfortable breathing and speaking.The harness should sit evenly around both ears.There should be no excessive movement when gently shaking your head.A properly fitted helmet should feel secure from the moment you put it on, without relying on the chin strap alone to hold it in place. If you're between sizes, choosing a model with adjustable fit features can often help achieve a more personalised fit.Lightweight Construction. Dependable Protection.What makes the Artemis stand out is its versatility. Its built to perform across a wide variety of disciplines and riding environments, making it a reliable choice for riders who want a solution they can trust. From balanced design to rider-focused detailing, every feature works together to support confidence, safety, and ease of use.Premier Equine designed the Artemis collection for the modern rider who values simplicity without sacrificing quality. The Artemis collection provides exactly that: a streamlined, dependable choice for riders who want confidence every time they sit in the saddle.FAQs1. What safety standards should a jockey skull cap meet?When choosing a jockey skull cap, look for recognised safety certifications such as BSI Kitemark PAS 015:2011 and EN 1384:2023. These standards indicate that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing for impact absorption, stability, penetration resistance and retention strength. Always check the latest rules if you're competing, as event organisers may specify which safety standards are accepted.2. How should a jockey skull cap fit?A jockey skull cap should fit snugly and sit level on your head without causing uncomfortable pressure points. It should remain secure when you move your head, with minimal movement, and the chin strap should fasten comfortably beneath your chin.3. What are the benefits of a dial fit riding helmet?A dial fit system allows you to adjust the helmet quickly and precisely for a customised fit. This helps improve stability, reduces movement while riding and increases comfort during longer periods in the saddle. It's also useful for accommodating different hairstyles or riders who require sizes between the standard helmet sizes.4. How often should I replace my riding helmet?You should replace your riding helmet immediately after any significant impact or fall, even if there is no visible damage. This is because the protective materials may have been compromised. It's also recommended to replace helmets every few years, depending on the manufacturer's guidance, regular wear and tear, and how the helmet has been stored and maintained.5. Why is ventilation important in a riding helmet?Good ventilation helps improve airflow through the helmet, reducing heat and moisture build-up while riding. A well-ventilated jockey skull cap can enhance comfort, particularly during long training sessions or warm weather, helping you stay focused and comfortable without compromising safety.

Horse Sport Ireland has welcomed the confirmation that Millstreet will once again host a leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup in 2027, following the decision taken by the FEI Board at its most recent in-person meeting in Lausanne.The prestigious international team competition will take place at Millstreet International Horse Trials from 2225 July 2027, marking the return of FEI Eventing Nations Cup action to one of Irelands premier equestrian venues.Millstreet has a proud history of hosting FEI Eventing Nations Cup competitions and has consistently attracted many of the worlds leading combinations. Ireland most recently enjoyed memorable success on home soil when it secured a memorable come-from-behind victory in the Nations Cup at Millstreet in 2024, underlining the strength of the countrys eventing programme and the unique atmosphere created by the home support.Horse Sport Ireland Chief Operations Officer, Avalon Everett, said: We are delighted that the FEI has once again entrusted Millstreet with hosting a leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup. This is fantastic recognition of the world-class facilities, organisation and expertise at Millstreet, and of Irelands commitment to delivering world-class international eventing on the international stage.Hosting a home Nations Cup provides an invaluable opportunity for our athletes and horses to compete against the very best on home soil while giving fans the chance to witness elite international eventing, just like they will at the FEI Eventing Under-25 World Championship later this month.We look forward to working closely with the organising team at Millstreet to deliver another outstanding event in 2027.The announcement further reinforces Millstreets growing reputation as one of Europes leading eventing venues. In just three weeks, the Cork venue will also host the FEI Eventing Under-25 World Championship, welcoming the worlds best up-and-coming athletes to Ireland for one of the sports most prestigious age-group championships.Horse Sport Ireland congratulates the Millstreet Organising Committee on securing the allocation and looks forward to welcoming the worlds leading eventing nations to Ireland in July 2027.The post FEI Eventing Nations Cup returns to home soil at Millstreet in 2027 appeared first on .

Equine flu has reached the New Forests semi-feral pony population for the first time in 30 years, with the highly contagious virus now spreading through the free-roaming herd and reports suggesting as many as 10 ponies may have died.Cases have been confirmed in the Brockenhurst and Burley areas of the forest, and with around 5,500 semi-feral ponies roaming the common, vaccination is not a practical option.Andrew Parry Norton, of the Commoners Defence Association, said the outbreak would have to be allowed to run its course.It has to be nature led let it run through the herd and immunity will gradually rebuild, he said.He also warned members of the public that they may encounter ponies showing signs of illness, including coughing and heavy nasal discharge, and urged anyone concerned about an animals welfare to report it to the Verderers office.A spokesperson for the Verderers of the New Forest confirmed the disease continues to spread through the herd.Equine flu continues to spread through the New Forest herd and cases have now been seen in ponies in the Brockenhurst and Burley areas. You should expect to see ponies with a heavy nasal discharge and a dry cough, they said.The Verderers are following veterinary advice, which is to leave the affected ponies where they are to avoid causing them unnecessary distress and potentially spreading the virus further.Give ponies a wide berthAlthough equine influenza is primarily spread through the air, the spokesperson warned it can also be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals.The advice to horse riders and walkers is to give the ponies as wide a berth as is possible and not to allow ridden horses to drink from communal water troughs, they added.The outbreak comes as equine influenza continues to affect horses across the UK. So far this year, 135 cases have been recorded, including more than 40 during June alone.Local horse owners are being urged to ensure their horses vaccinations are up to date and to avoid any contact with the New Forest ponies while the outbreak continues.Events affectedThe heightened biosecurity measures are also extending to major equestrian events. Organisers of the New Forest and Hampshire County Show, which takes place from 2830 July, will check the passports of every horse, pony and donkey entering the showground, with any equids that do not meet the vaccination requirements refused entry.Similar vaccination checks have also been introduced at other major agricultural shows, including Royal Cornwall, Royal Bath & West and the Great Yorkshire Show, as well as at fixtures run by British Dressage, British Eventing and British Showjumping.Main image ShutterstockRelated contentSpike in strangles and flu cases: Experts share essential ways to protect horsesEquine flu: this is how to lower the risk to your horseWhy Covid-19 Could Help the Horse World Battle Equine FluHorse world urged to unite with more than 100 cases of strangles in 2026The post Equine flu hits New Forest ponies for first time in 30 years as virus spreads through semi-feral herd appeared first on Your Horse.

A pair of Shetlands left in agonising pain and barely able to walk due to neglect, are now making excellent progress in charity care.Mother-and-daughter, Ariel and Jewels, are recovering in the sanctuary of HorseWorld, after concerns about their welfare were reported to the RSPCA.Ariel and Jewels were suffering from severely overgrown hooves, making walking almost impossible. X-rays revealed both ponies had chronic laminitis, with significant rotation of the pedal bone in all four feet. The damage had developed over a prolonged period and was causing extreme pain.Ariel on arrival at HorseWorldWhen the call and initial photos came in from the RSPCA, I knew we had to act fast, said HorseWorlds Equine Welfare Advisor, Meg Challinor, who was among the team that responded to the emergency call. Within 40 minutes we were onsite with the emergency vet. I knew immediately they had been suffering for a long time.Their hooves had grown so badly that the bones inside their feet had shifted. Their joints had begun to collapse. Every single step they took was clearly absolutely agonising. They needed to be removed immediately.Their hooves were severely overgrownBoth ponies were also underweight and youngster Jewels had a deep indentation around her face where a headcollar had been left on for an extended period.Upon arrival at HorseWorld, the charitys welfare, veterinary and farrier teams carried out urgent assessments to determine whether recovery was possible and what treatment would be required. Despite the severity of their condition, the ponies quickly revealed bright, curious personalities and a strong will to recover.Today, Ariel and Jewels are making excellent progress thanks to ongoing specialist veterinary care, expert farriery, careful management and round-the-clock support from HorseWorlds welfare team.X-rays revealed both ponies had chronic laminitisThe pair will be among the horses and ponies meeting visitors at HorseWorlds annual Horse Fest Open Day on Saturday 25 July.The event offers an opportunity to go behind the scenes at the Bristol-based charity, enjoy demonstrations and activities, and learn more about HorseWorlds work protecting vulnerable equines across the South West.Happy at last: Ariel and Jewel have made good progressWhile Ariel and Jewels story has a happy ending, HorseWorld warns that they are far from an isolated case.Ariel and Jewels are just two of many horses who urgently need help each year, added Meg. Cases like theirs remind us why it is so important that we can act immediately when concerns are reported. Every horse deserves the chance of a safe, healthy future.More content from Your HorseJump out of trot to test rider balance and build trust with this exercise from Piggy MarchEmily Cole has launched a new collection and dressage fans will love it!5 things to bear in mind to achieve your solo hacking goals with a young or new horse or following a breakHow to tell if a horse is happy: behaviourist reveals 13 key signsThe post Look at us now!: Bright future for once neglected Shetlands appeared first on Your Horse.

! ' ' ' Holly Smith and the exciting eight year old Nike van het Singraven continued their sensational run of form on the opening day of Week Two of the Al Shira'aa Bolesworth International, producing the only double clear performance to win Thursday's CSI4* 1.50m Longines Ranking Grand Prix Qualifier, sponsored by CG Professional.Defeating an all star field that included current world number nine Laura Kraut, multi-Olympian John Whitaker, Irish star Billy Twomey, reigning Al Shira'aa Bolesworth CSI4* Grand Prix champion Laura Renwick and a host of Olympic riders, European medallists and Nations Cup winners, Holly Smith Showjumping produced two flawless rounds to secure back to back international Longines Ranking victories at Bolesworth.The 48 strong field, representing six nations, were all chasing valuable Longines Ranking points and a share of the impressive prize fund in Rafael Suarez and teams 16 effort track that sent four combinations through to the jump off.USA's Sterling Malnik, who qualified for last week's CSI3* Al Shira'aa Grand Prix jump-off, was first into the International Arena aboard Calgary Tame but incurred 12 faults.The first British combination, local rider Hannah Sims, based just eight miles from Bolesworth, partnered the stallion Kingfisher, fresh from contesting this year's Al Shira'aa Hickstead Derby. The pair added four jumping faults and a single time penalty.Guy Williams looked on course for a clear after producing a smooth, flowing round before a late rail denied him, while reigning CSI4* Al Shira'aa Bolesworth Grand Prix champion Laura Renwick and Marseille saw two fences fall despite producing one of the quicker rounds of the day.It was Holly who finally cracked the course, delivering the first clear aboard the hugely talented Nike van het Singraven before Ireland's Billy Twomey and Ace of Hearts Z quickly joined her with another faultless performance.Multi Olympian John Whitaker and Equine America Unick de Francport looked set to make it three clears, only to agonisingly pick up a single time fault, while Laura Kraut ensured three nations would contest the jump off after guiding Carquilara PS home inside the time allowed.Just four combinations progressed to the deciding round, with Holly joined by Billy Twomey, Sally Goding and Laura Kraut.First to return, Holly knew she had to lay down a target and did exactly that, producing another immaculate clear in 39.70 seconds.Billy Twomey (Show Jumper) Official chased hard but a single rail left him to settle for second, while Kraut's fast four fault effort secured third. Sally Goding also picked up faults, leaving Holly and Nike van het Singraven as the only combination to produce two clear rounds.The victory capped a remarkable fortnight for Holly and the eight-year-old, who became the only rider to win both of the Al Shira'aa Bolesworth International's Longines Ranking classes, underlining the emergence of one of Britain's most exciting young horses.Speaking after her win, Smith said:"I couldn't be more pleased with the horse he obviously likes it here."Not only is it special to win another ranking class after last week, but one of his joint owners, Liz Astall, was here to watch him for the first time, so it was really lovely to do that in front of her."Holly admitted she wasn't confident that they would pull off a top placing today: "The class was tough today with only four clears, and I was drawn first to go, so I didn't really fancy myself with the people I had coming behind me. I just did my usual round and hoped it would be good enough."Explaining where she felt she made the difference, she added:"I actually went a stride extra than I wanted from fence three to four, then I thought I really needed to take a chance to the double, which I did. It's naturally quite a quick course and I thought that just put enough pressure on that it forced people into mistakes."Holly has produced Nike van het Singraven since he was a five-year-old and believes the partnership they have developed is now paying dividends at the highest level."I've spent all of my time with that horse nursing him, producing him so I think that's why he's coming to this level as quickly as he has. He also has an exceptional temperament. He's super friendly and definitely thinks he's quite entitled!"Holly was in winning form, also claiming the top spot in the 4* 1.40m with the handsome and super-quick Fruselli, back in competition after almost two years away.Earlier in the day, Great Britain's Jessica Hewlett claimed victory in the CSIU25-A 1.35m Against the Clock Qualifier, sponsored by D&H.Fifty combinations from six nations tackled John Doyle's flowing 11 fence course in the Castle Arena, with D&H's commitment to supporting equine performance through expert nutrition providing fitting backing for the class.Ireland's Seamus Hughes Kennedy laid down the first clear in 57.96 seconds before Chloe Hughes Kennedy ensured the opening two clears both belonged to Ireland.Britain's Cate Kerr moved to the top of the leaderboard aboard Ballypatrick Zambra with a time of 56.77 seconds and held the lead until halfway through the class, when Maddie Heath edged ahead before Glain Watkin-Jones and Heroine Pasquier shaved more time from the clock.Drawn late in the order, Jessica and Mosandro Van Perbeemd produced a superb round to stop the clock 0.64 seconds quicker than Glain Watkin-Jones and claim an impressive qualifier victory.Speaking afterwards, Jessica said: "That was so much fun. He's a quick horse and I was very lucky to have a good draw as well. He's naturally speedy, so all I really have to do is follow him and do as he says," she laughed.Explaining where she found the winning time, Jessica added:"Everything was a bit of a turn back after each line, so it was about keeping it tight but still keeping it smooth. That's where we managed to just nick that little bit of time."The partnership has only been competing internationally together for the past 12 months after Jessica bought the horse unseen, making the victory all the more special with a horse she describes as incredibly special to her.Photo 1st Class Images/Bolesworth International#showjumpinglife #showjumper #horsesofinstagram #KMClegalAl Shiraaa Tour #bolesworthinternational #showjumping