Two world-renowned veterinarians will headlinethe British Equine Veterinary Associations (BEVA)plenary lectures at the BEVA Congress this September.Meta Osborne and Tim Mair will explore the Congress theme of doing the right thing to help boost horse health outcomes during the conference which will take place at the ICC in Birmingham on Wednesday 9 Saturday 12 September.The John Hickman plenary lectureOn Thursday 10September, Meta will talk aboutThreads, Patterns and Boundaries Understanding Veterinary Influence on Equine Welfare forThe John Hickman plenary lecture.She will discuss how she transformed from a confident and competent equine practitioner who thought caring about horses was enough, to someone whose postgraduate study, regulatory experience and ongoing research revealed patterns in everyday veterinary practice that are hiding in plain sight.Meta co-owns a leading Irish commercial Thoroughbred stud farm. She has served as President of both the Irish Veterinary Association and the Veterinary Council of Ireland and was senior steward of the Turf Club, the regulator of horse racing in Ireland.In 2023, she completed an MSc in Animal Welfare, Ethics & Law at the University of Edinburgh. She co-hosts Changing Rein, a podcast exploring the future of horse sport using a welfare lens and is a guest lecturer in Animal Welfare for undergraduate veterinary and animal science students at UCD.Meta Osborne will present The John Hickman plenary lecture.The Peter Rossdale Memorial lectureBell Equine Veterinary Clinics Tim Mair will speak aboutBeyond gut feelings: building better care and promoting equine welfare from practice-based datainthe fifth Peter Rossdale Memorial lecture, which will be held on Friday 11thSeptemberTim worked in mixed practice before returning to Bristol to undertake research in equine immunology and lecturing in equine medicine.He joined Bell Equine in 1989, concentrating on internal medicine, soft tissue surgery and advanced imaging. He has published over 250 peer-reviewed articles and co-authored several textbooks. Tim is Honorary Professor of the Royal Veterinary College, a past President of BEVA and editor of Equine Veterinary Education. He is Equine Veterinary Director of CVS, and his current research/quality improvement interests focus on gastrointestinal diseases (including parasite control), sustainability, and antibiotic and anthelmintic use in equine practice.For more information about the Congress and to book tickets, click here.The Peter Rossdale Memorial lecture will be presented by Tim Mair.Related contentNine common horse skin conditions in picturesTried and tested: best fly rugs for horsesEssential items for your equine first aid kitHow to take care of a horseThe post Leading equine vets announced as BEVA Congress plenary speakers appeared first on Your Horse.

William Whitaker claimed his second The Al Shiraaa Derby victory at Hickstead yesterday (21 June) with a long-awaited win on Flamboyant III.Only two of the 30 combinations jumped clear, William and another former winner, Irelands David Simpson and Pjotr Van De Kruishoeve who took the title in 2023.Ten years ago William won the Derby with Glenavadra Brilliant, and this time he returned with Flamboyant III. William and the 16-year-old had been runner up for the past two years, so were keen to finally take the top spot.On the way to the ring I had about ten different Whitakers giving me information and telling me what the plan was, and each of them said something different! he joked afterwards. I knew Daves horse was naturally quicker than mine, so I thought if I had one down early on, then Id just throw caution to the wind.William Whitaker and Flamboyant in The Al Shiraaa Derby. Credit: Elli Birch/Bootsandhooves But after missing out in the jump-offs in both 2024 and 2025, this time the pair left all the fences standing to take the title. Hes come so close for the past few years, and he really deserved to win a Derby, William said.William picked up the ride on Flamboyant III in 2022, when usual rider Elliott Smith broke his leg in a fall after crossing the finish line in the Derby Trial. Hickstead Director Lizzie Bunn suggested William Whitaker took over the ride that year, and the pair went on to finish sixth in the Derby, and they secured another top 10 finish the following year.The horse spends most of the year with the Smith family, before returning to William for the Derby. So much preparation goes into it, and thats not just from me, I only have him part of the year Elliott Smith and his family do so much work with him behind the scenes, William added. So to get it done after coming so close the last few years is definitely a relief.David was disappointed not to secure his second Derby title, but he gave credit to his horse for jumping two super rounds. Pjotr loves it here at Hickstead, and I was delighted with how he was today, he said. His next target is to come back here in July for the Nations Cup and the Grand Prix. Thats the good thing about him, he can do Derbies, he can do five-star Grands Prix. Im very lucky to have him.Sammie-Jo Coffin was the leading female rider, finishing joint third with four faults on the consistent Derby performer Chaccomo Blue.Irelands Stephan Dubsky and C The Stars knocked down the final fence to finish joint third with Sammie-Jo.Six riders finished on eight faults apiece, including Guy Williams, Shane Breen, Jessica Hewitt and Geoff Curran, along with event riders Gemma Stevens and Alexander Bragg.Lead image: William Whitaker and Flamboyant. Credit Elli Birch/Bootsandhooves Related contentThree effective 10-minute exercises from Yazmin Pinchen to improve your jump offFive-step plan for a clear and confident jumping roundPiggy Marchs showjumping course walk tips and winning warm-up routineAmber extreme heat warning issued: Horse owners urged to take precautionsThe post On the way to the ring I had about 10 different Whitakers giving me information: William claims second Derby victory with scopey Flamboyant appeared first on Your Horse.

Lots of wins and Irish breeding shining from Advanced to Modified everywhere except the UK as no Novice or above there for the first time in memory!See below the up-to-date results for this week unverified results will be added to next weeks results.Luhmuhlen International (GER) 17th 21st July 2026CCI 5* Long.3rd Shanroe Cooley (ISH)[was Shanroe Italk] 2015 gelding by Dallas VDL (BWP) out of Shanroe Saphire (ISH) by Condios (HOLST). Breeder: Anthony Smyth (Down). Rider: Boyd Martin (USA) 35.7, 0, 2.4 = 38.110th Cooley With Ambition (ISH) 2015 gelding by Future Trend (OLD) out of Janes Council (ISH) by Dow Jones Courcel (SF). Breeder: Conal Reilly (Longford). Rider: Harry Horton (GBR) 33.5, 2, 35.6 = 71.1.Other Irish Bred Finishers:11th Mister Big Ears (ISH)[TIH] 2015 gelding by Cruisings Micky Finn (ISH)[TIH] out of Coevers Frankford (ISH)[TIH] by Coevers Diamond Boy (ISH). Breeder: Michael Byrne. Rider: Sam Ecroyd (GBR) 77.312th Ivanhoe (ISH)[TIH] 2015 gelding by Wounderwall (TB) out of Amazon Cruise (ISH)[TIH] by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Thomas Jones. Rider: Dominic Furnell (IRL) 89.813th Carrowgar Je Taime Max (ISH) 2013 gelding by Je TAime Flamenco (BWP) out of Coolcorran Roseau (ISH)[TIH] by Coolcorron Cool Diamond (ISH). Breeder: Gina Heaps. Rider: Sian Coleman (IRL) 93.2.CCI 4* Short2nd Tullabeg Platinum (ISH) 2014 gelding by Dignified Vant Zorgvliet (BWP) out of Tullabeg Hero (ISH) by Cult Hero (TB). Breeder: Nicholas Cousins. Rider: Julia Krajewski (GER) 27.2, 0, 7.2 = 34.4.Stable View Summer Horse Trials (USA) 20th 21st July 2026Advanced3rd Fernhill Cardevega (ISH)[was Cardevga] 2017 gelding by Cardento (HOLST) out of Quevega (ISH) by ARS Vivendi (HOLST). Breeder: Fionnuala Byrne. Rider: Ivie Cullen-Dean (USA) 37.1, 9.6, 44.4 = 91.1.Only 3 finished.Open Intermediate1st HSH Marshall (ISH)(was Poynstown Marshall) 2016 gelding by Future Trend (OLD) out of Poynstown Queen (ISH) by Olympix Lux (KWPN). Breeder: Paula Widger. Rider: Karl Slezak (CAN) 32.5, 0, 8.0 = 40.58th GoldenEye 007 (ISH)[was Rosco Ranger] 2018 gelding by Goodluck VDL (KWPN) out of Cuffesgrange Sensation (ISH) by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD). Breeder: Joe Connaughton. Rider: Heather Bush (USA) 44.6, 4, 24.8 = 73.49th Grantstown Magic Man (ISH) 2019 gelding by Tullabeg Fusion (ISH) (ISH) out of Grantstown Bon Voyage (ISH) by Cobra (HOLST). Breeder: Thomas Widger. Rider: Ivie Cullen-Dean (USA) 35.2, 4, 36.4 = 75.6.Open Preliminary1st Greenhall Good Decision (ISH)[was Grenhall Illuminator] 2017 gelding by ARS Vivendi (HOLST) out of Greenhall Indicator (ISH) by Limmerick (HOLST). Breeder: Derry Rothwell. Rider: Sydney Elliott (USA) 27.6, 0, 2.8 = 30.43rd Fernhill Hotshot (ISH)[was You Two Hotshot] 2016 gelding by Warrenstown You 2 (ISH) out of Ballinamonapark Honet (ISH) by Iroko (WESTF). Breeder: Vahe Bogossian. Rider: Amy Cobb (USA) 35.3, 0, 5.6 = 40.9.Preliminary Rider2nd Sportsfield Kan Do (ISH) 2018 gelding by HSF Cardento Royale (ISH) out of CSF Roys Lady (ISH) by Kannan (KWPN). Breeder: James ODea. Rider: Lily Barlow (USA) 23.2, 0.8, 7.6 = 31.63rd Dartans Hillcrest (ISH)[was Dartans Shine A Light] 2014 gelding by OBOB Quality 004 (OLD)out of Dartans Valerie (ISH) by Harlequin du Carel (SF). Breeder: Louise Lyons. Rider: Lara Gabrie (HON) 29.0, 4, 34.4 = 67.4.Open Modified3rd Cooley All In (ISH) 2018 gelding by Chello III VDL (HOLST) out of Lady Glider (ISH) by Kroongraaf (KWPN). Breeder: Martin Duffy. Rider: Susan Plumb (USA) 23.0, 0, 4.4 = 27.4.Mid South Pony Club Horse Trials (USA) 19th 21st July 2026Open Preliminary4th Roscommon (ID) 2000 gelding by Crosstown Dancer (ID) out of Fenagh Abbey (ID) by Holycross (ID). Breeder: Messers Curran & Callahan. Rider: Abby Blackburn (USA) 34.8, 4, 0.4 = 39.27th MHE Excel Star Noble Ikon (ISH) 2020 gelding by Ganesh Hero Z (ZANG) out of Ces Chippy Di (ISH) by Chippison (ISH). Breeder: Brian Burke. Rider: Morgan Houberg (USA) 32.8, 4, 7.6 = 44.49th Quality on Tap (ISH) [was Lagans Vivant Morning] 2019 mare by Lagans OBOS Quality (ISH) out of Tyrella Sunday Morning (ISH) by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Peter Rice. Rider: Alexandra Knowles (USA) 32.0, 0, 17.6 = 49.6.Open Modified Div 11st Sportsfield CoolKenny (ISH) 2018 gelding by Coolkeeran (HOLST) out of Patricks Polly (ISH)[TIH] by Nad Elshiba (TB). Breeder: Thomas Hutchinson. Rider: Anna Kjellstrom (USA) 25.2, 0, 2.8 = 28.05th Lammy Fortune (ISH)[was Lammy Vulcan] 2018 gelding by Echonix (ISH) out of Coevers Dream Girl (ISH)[TIH] by Coevers Diamond Boy (ISH). Breeder: Norman E Watt. Rider: Kristina Koehler (USA) 28.6, 4, 23.6 = 56.2.Open Modified Div 22nd Quality Outlaw (ISH)(was Oranbay Clyde) 2020 gelding by Tyson (KWPN) out of KG Star (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breedwer: Rachel Konisberry. Rider: Ryan Keefe (USA) 32.5, 4, 0.8 = 37.35th Carrafarm Be Mine (ISH)[TIH] 2019 gelding by Lionwood Kinsales Lad (ID) out of Lambscross GRA (ISH)[TIH] by Laughtons Flight (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Aidan Daly. Rider: Madeline Binder (USA) 34.1, 0, 12.0 = 46.16th CCS Dance Monkey (ISH) 2018 gelding by Kaemore Diamond Clover (ID) out of Heather Hills (ISH) by Colourfield (TB). Breeder: Joseph Keenan. Rider: Kyra Steinrock (USA) 29.8, 12, 4.4 = 46.2.Fox River Valley Pony Club Horse Trials (USA) 20th 21st June 2026Open Preliminary1st KBS Curious Quality (ISH)[was KBS Pirate Cove] 2017 gelding by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of Pirate Fairy (ISH)[TIH] by Cruising (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Kieran Kennedy. Rider: Kristine Burgess (USA) 29.5, 0, 0.0 = 29.5.Vittel International (FRA) 11th 14th June 2026CCI 4* Short5th Dirty Old Town (ISH) 2015 gelding by Cruisings Ambassador (ISH) out of Puissance Royale (ISH) by Puissance (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Michael Byrne. Rider: Asher Nicolas (FRA) 37.0, 04, 0.0 = 37.4.CCI 1* Intro8th Fourfields Maximum Stake (ISH) 2017 mare by Goodluck VDL (KWPN) out of Ardagh Maxi (AES) by Maximum Clearance (TB). Breeder: Donal Galvin. Rider: Lena Maria Setzwein (GER) 30.5, 4, 0.0 = 34.5.Kaposvar International (HUN) 12th 14th June 2026CCI 3* Short1st Cooley Goodwood (ISH)[was LLS Quality Diamond] 2014 gelding by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of Burrane Kate (ISH)[TIH] by Glidawn Diamond (ID). Breeder: James Coughlan (Clare). Rider: Arjan Nagra (IND) 30.6, 9.2, 0.0 = 39.85th Fernhill Peak Panther (ISH)[was The Peak Panther] 2015 gelding by Orestus (KWPN) out of Womans Heart (ISH) by Womanizer (KWPN). Breeder: Jim OConnell. Rider: Carolina Ferraini (ITA) 40.1, 4, 10.8 = 54.97th LCC Richie Rich (ISH) 2018 gelding by Je TAime Flemenco out of LCC Cavalier Sweetheart by Cavalier Royale (HOLST). Breeder: Linda Courtney Cadam. Rider: Fosco Girardi (ITA) 44.4, 8, 10.8 = 63.2.CCI 2* Short1st Tullibards Nobody Knows (ISH) 2016 mare by Tullibards Bennys Legacy (OLD) out of Tullibards Hot Shot (ISH) by Cruisings Micky Finn (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Hans Jurgen Kuehnle. Rider: Julia Lentrodt (GER) 32.3, 0, 0.0 = 32.38th A Touch of Cobra (unk) 2018 gelding by Cobra 18 (WEWB) out of Lady Lux (unk) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Gary Kavanagh. Rider: Levante Girardi (ITA) 35.8, 0, 2.0 = 37.89th Gold Sohayla (ISH) 2020 mare by Vivant Van de Heffinck (BWP) out of Dream Beauty (ISH) by Shannondale Sarco St Ghyvan (BWP). Breeder: Patrick Hogan. Rider: Edwardo Fortini (ITA) 36.0, 4, 1.2 = 41.210th Santiago Steppe (ISH) 2014 mare by Mermus R (KWPN) out of Zantus (ISH) by Aldatus Z (OLD). Breeder: Tommy Merrigan. Rider: Suhani Ponzo (ITA) 43.0, 0, 0.0 = 43.0.Westerstede International (GER) 11th 14th June 20263rd LEB Empress (ISH) 2014 mare by OBOS Quality 004 (OLD) out of LEB Liath (ISH)[TIH] by Colin Diamond (ISH)[TIH]. Breeder: Jo Breheny (Waterford). Rider: Gustav Von Schoen (GER) 33.8, 0, 1.2 = 34.8.These results have been provided to Horse Sport Ireland by Charlie Ripman.These results are funded by Horse Sport Ireland.The post Irish bred Sport Horses well represented in a small entry at 5* appeared first on .

Irish continue to deliver in West Sussex, with top-flight ribbons garnered on continentHickstead has been the site of famous victories of some of the best show jumpers, equine and human, Ireland has ever produced and this year, there were successes at the four-star Al Shiraaa Derby meeting in the opening three international classes for Richard Howley, David Simpson and Sen Monaghan on Thursday and Friday.The one they all wanted, of course, was the 64th edition of the Hickstead Derby. Simpson almost joined an illustrious list including Eddie Macken, Capt John Ledingham, inaugural victor Seamus Hayes, Trevor Breen and Peter Charles (in his days representing Ireland) as a multiple winner of the Derby, and with Pjotr Van De Kruishoeve, an even more select grouping inhabited by just William Funnell (GBR), with Cortaflex Mondriaan in 2006, and Dublon in 2024, of completing the Trial and Derby double.They had four faults in the jump-off however, finishing second in a brilliant effort, to William Whitaker and Flaymboyant II.Simpson, a native of Derry who is based a little over 10 miles away from Hickstead in Coolham, was joined on the podium by compatriots Stephan Dubsky and Derek McCoppin, who shared third with Briton Sammie Jo Coffin.There was five-star action in mainland Europe and Denis Lynch posted the standout result when runner-up in the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix in Paris on Saturday. Cian OConnor helped his team, Riyadh Knights finish third in the League competition 24 hours earlier.Elsewhere, Harry Allen won the Grand Prix at the two-star show in Lier, where Daniel Fitzgerald was also victorious earlier in the week.Simpson and Pjotr Van De Kruishoeve got the show on the road in Hickstead with a superb victory in the Agria Derby Trial (main pic and above). A strong contingent of 45 participated and with 19 jumping efforts and a time allowed of just under two minutes, it produced just six clear rounds. Three of the four athletes that opted to return for the jump-off were Irish.Dubsky was the pathfinder in the second round, but when his horse C The Stars (Miriam Rohr) knocked the Derby rails, it gave the others some breathing space. Event rider Alex Bragg (GBR) and Hegglelane Houston were next, and having had a practice at Simpsons replica Derby fences three days earlier, they produced the first of the double clears to take the lead.Simpson matched the clear on the horse he won the 2023 Derby with, knocking almost six seconds off the target with a time of 58.24.Last to go was McCoppin and Capital Levubu (Meredith Dos Santos), but a fence down dropped them to fourth, confirming a second triumph for Simpson in the Derby Trial, 10 years after delivering with Gotti Van Paemel in 2016.Pjotr was just eight when he won the Hickstead Derby, and having not competed in it since, was steered towards Sundays headline class by his owner, notably recording gold and silver medal-winning returns in Hamburg Derby qualifiers. Following up in the Derby Trial at the West Sussex arena confirmed his wellbeing.Hes been in great shape for the last couple of weeks he was unbelievable in Hamburg and in St. Gallen, said Simpson afterwards.Howley brought up Amhrn na bhFiann for the second time by navigating Caprice DElle (ESM Equestrian) to the winners enclosure after the two-phase competition for the Tom Hudson Trophy. The pair went through the speed phase in 34 seconds flat to secure the spoils, and they were joined in the podium positions by Fenor pilot, Commandant Geoff Curran with the Irish Sport Horse DHF Alliance, who finished third in 35.30.Howley is still on a learning curve with Caprice DElle (above) but the early signs are very promising indeed for the pairing.He is a very versatile horse who absolutely loves to go against the clock, said the Enniscrone native of the 14-year-old he bought two weeks ago, after riding him for six months. He really enjoys it as I am sure you could tell by the prize giving! Hes won so much for us already in a short space of time and its great to have him in the stable.On Friday, Sen Monaghan made it a perfect three for Irish equestrians in the international classes at the iconic venue, and it was a memorable and emotional success for the Kilcock athlete. Toyger (Catherine OConnor), who Monaghan bought from Shane Breen and then rode as Ireland finished second in the Longines League of Nations final last October, has endured a number of setbacks since and the Hickstead Masters Trophy was the 14-year-olds return to high-class competition (below).A mammoth start list of 75 combinations took part but it was Monaghan and Toyger who topped the table after the jump-off, ahead of the UAEs Abdullah Mohd Al Marri, with the Irish Sport Horse BBS McGregor, bred in Kilkenny by Marguerite Ryan. Colligan man, Peter Moloney rounded out the top five with Nielson (Lisa Volk), just ahead of Castledermots former Derby winner Mikey Pender, with the Ita Brennan-bred Irish Sport Horse HHS Calais (Bravo Hughes)I knew I had arguably the best horse in the class, and I was last to go, so if everything came right Id say he was going to pull it off, said Monaghan. Hes one of the best horses in the world, hes absolutely phenomenal.Its his first big show since the League of Nations Final last October. Its an emotional win because its been a long wait to get him back on the road. Hes been unlucky with a few little setbacks since October, nothing major, but we wanted to make sure he was fully back and now he feels better than ever, so I am excited for whats ahead of him.The Longines Global Champions Tour moved to its third French venue in as many weeks, this time to the capital, and while the Irish run of victories in the team competition that is the League came to an end after the successes of Max Wachman and Ciaran Nallon, OConnor did ensure a Green Jacket on the podium just a matter of hours after Monaghans win in Hickstead.With the Eiffel Tower in touching distance of the Champ de Mars facility, the Karlswood Stables maestro followed an opening time fault with Kentucky TN (Karlswood Partners) in the 1.60m speed class by going clear (below) with Gospel Tame (Ronnoco Jump/ULC) in the 1.55m equivalent, the latter effort in 72.28 earning fourth place on the individual standings.More importantly, with Olivier Perreau (FRA) having one rail down on Himalaya Du Temple, having gone clear in the first competition with GL Events Dorai DAiguilly, that left the Knights on a total of five faults, enough for third.Were really happy, OConnor declared. The horses jumped great and Olivier rode really well too. My horse was fantastic in the first round and Gospel had to shorten up a bit for the second round because the time was tight, but he handled that really well. To be on the podium and get Riyadh Knights up there, were certainly very happy.Its important to make a plan, but there are so many good combinations and so much competition. We came here wanting to go well this week, so it was great when it worked out. To come away with a podium and some strong championship points is very positive for the team.The Irish highlight of the show, however, was the Cordial showcasing his enduring class with a runner-up finish in Saturdays LGCT Grand Prix, with Lynch (below left) in the irons. The 17-year-old stallion owned by Onyx Consulting and Tipperarys Finest excelled with a double clear under his experienced pilot, and the duo were among six of the 41 original participants to return for the decider.And Cordial showed that he has plenty of gears under the bonnet, as well as scope, going clear again in 39.89 seconds. That saw off the partnerships of GL Events Dorai DAiguilly (third) and Christian Ahlmann (GER), with Untouched LB (fourth), two of the others to be foot-perfect over the obstacles.There could be no denying Max Khner (AUT) and his Mark Sherry-bred 15-year-old EIC Up Too Jacco Blue, however, the pair streaking clear in 38.36 to capture the 101,838 first prize, though 61,720 was significant consolation for Lynch and Cordials connections.Khner moves to second in the overall standings, with Mikey Pender the leading Irish athlete in seventh, just ahead of OConnor. Lynch remains in contention for the end-of-season finale in 16th.Attentions returned to the other side of the English Channel on Sunday, as Simpson chased history as part of a really strong Irish challenge. Ballymoney, Co Wexford athlete Dubsky held the lead a long while with C The Stars, a pairing that took fourth in the Deutches Derby in Hamburg, as the only combination with four faults as the course claimed victim after victim. Eventually, they were joined by Longfords McCoppin and Capital Levubu, and Coffin with the Brian OMalley-bred and co-owned Chaccomo Blue (ISH).Simpson and the horse he knows as Freddie removed those from the equation with a faultless round, though there was a nervous moment with a rub of a pole in the Devils Dyke. They would be joined immediately by William Whitaker, himself a winner 10 years ago, and looking to add to his familys 10 previous triumphs. Whats more, the English rider and Flamboyant II had been beaten in jump-offs in the last two renewals. They had a touch of fortune too but again, score card remained unblemished.It was the Ulsterman that was first to return with his 11-year-old stallion, who is naturally faster than Flamboyant. They injected some speed to proceedings but did not escape the Devils Dyke on this occasion, knocking the middle part of the triple, after a tight turn. It was the first time the horse had knocked a jump on the course. Simpson could not hide his disappointment, dropping his head to his right hand.Whitaker and Flamboyant finally shed their bridesmaid status with an unerring jumping display to deny the 2023 victors. But Simpson was proud of his partners endeavours and looking forward to the future with what is still a very young horse at this level.Pjotr loves it here at Hickstead, and I was delighted with how he was today, he stated. His next target is to come back here in July for the Nations Cup and the Grand Prix. Thats the good thing about him, he can do Derbies, he can do five-star Grands Prix. Im very lucky to have him.On Sunday, Allen and Lukaku Vd Bisschop (Aloga Stables) justified their status as favourites for the concluding Grand Prix at the Azelhof arena. The Germany-based Enniscorthy athlete and his 15-year-old bay stallion topped a field of 59 by going quickest in a 10-strong jump-off, stopping the timers in 39.32 seconds in the 1.45m class.On Thursday, Kilcullen athlete Fitzgerald and another Aloga Stables charte, Deparino B, were the fastest of eight double clears in the 1.45m jump-off class with a time of 35.45.BREEDINGDHF ALLIANCE (ISH) 2015 Mare by Ard Vdl Douglas (KWPN) out of Rosie Bee (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). Breeder: Paul Douglas, Aughnacloy, Co Tyrone. Owner: Jess Stallard & Minister for Defence. Rider: Commandant Geoff Curran (IRL).CHACCOMO BLUE (ISH) 2011 br gelding by Vigo DArsouilles (BWP) our of Hot Lux (ISH) by Lux Z (HANN). BreedeR: Brian OMalley, Co Sligo. Owner: Sammie Joe Coffin & Brian OMalley. Rider: Sammie Jo Coffin (GBR)EIC UP TOO JACCO BLUE (ISH) 2011 br gelding by Chacco-Blue (MECKL) out Celestial Up Too (ISH) by Douglas (KWPN). Breeder: Mark Sherry, Co Wicklow. Owner: Hans Christian Jacobsen & Khner. Rider: Max Khner (AUT)BBS MCGREGOR (ISH) 2012 gelding by Cardento (HOLST) out of Random Chance (ISH) by Mark Twain (TB). Breeder: Marguerite Ryan, Co Kilkenny. Owner: Al ShiraAa Stables. Rider: Abdullah Mohd Al Marri (UAE).HHS CALAIS (ISH) 2011 gelding by Cavalier Royale (HOLST) out of MHS OBOS Cruise (ISH) by OBOS Quality (OLD). Breeder: Ita Brennan, Co. Kilkenny. Owner: Bravo Hughes Ltd. Rider: Michael Pender (IRL).The post Simpson heads Hickstead heroics appeared first on .

Many riders may not realise that tailored waistcoats are permitted under both British Dressage and British Eventing competition rules, offering a smart and cooler alternative to the traditional show jacket.Although the changes to the British Dressage (BD) rule have been in place since last year, exhibitors and trade stand holders say awareness remains surprisingly low, with many competitors still unaware they can wear a fitted waistcoat in the dressage arena including at BD championships without seeking prior permission.BD relaxed its dress-code rules from 1 January 2025, confirming that a tailored waistcoat may now be worn at championships without obtaining prior approval from organisers or the judging panel.Previously, riders generally needed permission before dispensing with a conventional competition jacket at championship level.To increase flexibility and inclusivityMaria Carrasco, co-founder of Caballo Elite, which specialises in competition waistcoats, said the updated rules were partly prompted by discussions following the 2024 Petplan Area Festivals.In January 2024 I competed in a waistcoat designed and made by my company at the Petplan Area Festivals, she explained.The waistcoat drew some attention due in part to interpretation of the then British Dressage ruling on wearing waistcoats at championships.Following last years revision of competition dress code by BD to increase flexibility and inclusivity, the BD representative at the Area Festival agreed to put forward a revision to the Sports Council to allow tailored waistcoats to be worn at all championships regardless of the weather or season, and without the need to obtain judges permission.We were delighted when British Dressage announced it had adopted the new waistcoat rule last season.Riders unawareMaria added that many riders are still unaware of the updated rules, despite increasing interest in alternative competition wear.We have been attending shows with our trade stand at BD and British Riding Club events, and many people are still unaware of the rule.We believe this rule change will be welcomed by many riders who prefer an alternative to the traditional jacket, she added.British Riding Clubs and British Eventing also allow riders to wear a fitted waistcoat in any conservative colour under their dress-code guidance.For BE competitors, the waistcoat can be worn for both the dressage and showjumping phases, up to advanced level, at events running under BE rules.British Showjumping remains more traditional in its approach, with the 2026 rulebook stating that jackets must still be worn unless officials grant permission for their removal during hot weather.Comfort and practicalityDressage competitor Ellie Barlow said the appeal of waistcoats was not just about comfort in warm weather, but also presentation in the arena.I bought a waistcoat for the summer, as I felt like going with no jacket and being all in white was not very flattering. I also felt it was more respectful having a type of jacket on for the judges, she said.British Dressage first began relaxing jacket rules nearly a decade ago, when competitors were permitted to remove jackets during hot weather at regular competitions. It was a decision widely welcomed by riders seeking relief from heavy traditional show wear during summer events.With temperatures rising and competition fashion continuing to evolve, waistcoats may now be moving from niche alternative to mainstream choice in the dressage arena and beyond.Main image Caballo EliteRelated contentDo draw reins ever have a place when training horses? BHS coach weighs up the debateDouble bridles explainedFive tips from a dressage judge to help you feel more confident in the arenaLacking confidence? 10 signs of high-functioning anxiety in horse ridersThe post Did you know? Waistcoats are allowed to be worn under British Dressage and British Eventing rules appeared first on Your Horse.

Foals start showing an interest in feed and forage early in life. | Anne M. Eberhardt/The HorseQ: My foal is almost a month old. Hes nursing well, but I also notice him trying to eat his dams feed and hay at times. When should I start my foal on his own feed, and how do I safely do this?A: Early in a foals life, the mares milk provides the nutrition the foal needs. However, it is normal for foals to begin exploring solid feeds and forages even as young as 1 week old. Proper nutrition becomes critical as foals transition from a milk to forage and concentrates and prepare for weaning.As your foal matures, milk alone will no longer meet his nutritional requirements. Including appropriate vitamin and mineral fortification in the ration helps reduce the foals risk of developing orthopedic diseases.Introducing Creep Feed to Your FoalDepending on the individual foals growth, creep feeding typically begins when the foal reaches 2 to 3 months. Creep feeders provide feed exclusively to the foal, not the mare, using adjustable bars on the feeder. This is the best way to be sure the mare is not eating the foals ration. Keep in mind that no single guideline works for every foal because forage quality, mare milk production, and the foals growth rate all influence nutritional needs.Historically, feeding 1 pound of creep feed per month of age has been common practice. However, depending on individual circumstances, this approach might provide more supplemental calories than some young horses require. If the foal does not need additional calories, a ration balancer can serve as a creep feed alternative. In the first months of life, the foal should gain 1-3 pounds daily. If he is not, he likely needs additional calories. If he is gaining more weight than this, you might need to reduce the calories available to him.When introducing creep feed, increase the amount gradually and divide it among multiple feedings each day, ideally at least two. Avoid overfeeding because overweight foals face a greater risk of developmental orthopedic disease.Take-Home MessageIt is normal for a foal to show interest in the mares feed and forage early in life, and creep feeding typically begins at 2 to 3 months of age. Foals that need additional calories can start earlier. Work with your veterinarian and a qualified equine nutritionist to match the amount and type of creep feed to your foals changing nutritional needs and available forage.

On June 18, a 3-year-old Quarter Horse gelding in Stanislaus County, California, tested positive for equine infectious anemia (EIA), marking the 16thconfirmed case at the facility. Eleven exposed horses will remain under quarantine for another 60 days until their next retest.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.About EIAEquine infectious anemiais a viral disease that attacks horses immune systems. The virus is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids from an infected to an uninfected animal, often by blood-feeding insects such as horseflies. It can also be transmitted through the use of blood-contaminated instruments or needles.ACoggins test screens horses blood for antibodiesthat are indicative of the presence of the EIA virus. Most U.S. states require horses to have proof of a negative Coggins test to travel across state lines.Once an animal is infected with EIA, it is infected for life and can be a reservoir for the spread of disease. Not all horses show signs of disease,but those that do can exhibit:Progressive body condition loss;Muscle weakness;Poor stamina;Fever;Depression; andAnemia.EIA has no vaccine and no cure. A horse diagnosed with the disease dies, is euthanized, or must be placed under extremely strict quarantine conditions (at least 200 yards away from unaffected equids) for the rest of his life.

On June 19, a mare at a private facility in Powhatan County, Virginia, tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). She presented with clinical signs of vestibular disease, including a head tilt and circling to the left. She has improved with treatment.Two other horses have been exposed but are not showing clinical signs.EDCC Health Watch is an Equine Network marketing program that utilizes information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to create and disseminate verified equine disease reports. TheEDCCis an independent nonprofit organization that is supported by industry donations in order to provide open access to infectious disease information.EHV 101Herpesvirus is highly contagious among horses and can cause a variety of ailments in equids, including rhinopneumonitis (a respiratory disease usually found in young horses), abortion in broodmares, and EHM.In many horses, the first or only sign of EHV-1 infection is fever, which can go undetected.In addition to fever, other common signs of EHV-1 infection in young horses include cough, decreased appetite, depression, and a nasal discharge. Pregnant mares typically show no signs of infection before they abort, and abortions usually occur late in gestation (around eight months) but can be earlier. Abortions can occur anywhere from two weeks to several months following infection with EHV-1.Horses with EHM usually have a fever at the onset of the disease and might show signs of a respiratory infection. A few days later, neurologic signs such as ataxia (incoordination), weakness or paralysis of the fore- and hind limbs, urine retention and dribbling, loss of tail tone, and recumbency (inability to rise) develop.Herpesvirus is easily spread by nose-to-nose or close contact with an infectious horse; sharing contaminated equipment including bits, buckets, and towels; or clothing, hands, or equipment of people who have recently had contact with an infectious horse.Routine biosecurity measures, including hygiene and basic cleaning and disinfection practices, should be in place at all times to help prevent disease spread.Current EHV-1 vaccines might reduce viral shedding but are not protective against the neurologic form of the disease. Implementing routine biosecurity practices is the best way to minimize viral spread, and the best method of disease control is disease prevention.