An appeal has been launched after a group of therapy ponies were seriously injured in a dog attack earlier this month. The ponies were in their field in Dunster, Somerset, when the attack took place and four required veterinary treatment for bite wounds.Miniature Shetlands Twiglet and Sophie were the most severely injured. Sophie had bite marks to both sides of her nose and chest, as well as injuries to her stomach, all of which required stitches or staples. Twiglet sustained multiple bites across her chest and stomach, as well as her legs. One of her hind legs had a deep wound which required hospital treatment. Vets feared her tendon had been severed but thankfully the injury was less serious than it first appeared. We really thought we were going to lose her which would have been devastating, said Michelle Craig, Head of Centre at Apex West, the charitable trust that keeps the ponies. Twiglet is so sweet and gentle. She is the kindestponyI know and she is a favourite with our students who are shy and lacking in confidence.Gibbs, another miniature Shetland, had a large, deep bite on his stomach and Dartmoor hillpony Hazel also had a large bite on her stomach which required stitches. Youngster Winston, the biggest pony in the herd, avoided injury.Their progress is good and we have half term now so they get a complete rest, Michelle told Your Horse. We worry about the impact it will have on their emotional welfare so will monitor this closely over the coming months.Apex West is part of a charitable trust that caters for children who are unable to access full time education. It offers a range of subjects, but its focus is on ourtherapeuticwork including forest and beach school, gardening, small animal care and equine therapy.Avon and Somerset Police his appealing for information on the dog attack.We received a report that four ponies at a farm in Dunster, near Minehead, had been injured by adogsometime between 6pm on Tuesday 7 October and 10am on Wednesday 8 October, said a spokesperson for the force.We are appealing for members of the public to come forward. If you were in the area between Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, saw the injured ponies or witnessed adogout of control near them, we urge you to get in touch. You can do this by calling 101 and quoting reference 5225282406.More from Your HorseJoe Stockdales tips for success when jumping a horse indoorsManage a spooked horse with these exercises from Richard MaxwellHow do horses sleep? Experts explain10 golden feeding rules for horses, according to an equine nutritionistThe post We thought we were going to lose her: Therapy ponies injured in dog attack appeared first on Your Horse.

Wilmington, Ohio The final Saturday night class of the 2025 Fall Classic Series at World Equestrian Center Wilmington (WEC) featured 38 horse-and-rider combinations in the $60,000 GGT Footing Grand Prix. Colm Quinn (IRL) designed a track that sent 11 athletes forward to the jump-off. It was Sean Jobins (CAN) night, as he secured a one-two finish aboard Engaye Damaury and GrandeSource

Plumpton Racecourse director Tom Savill and his best friend Joe Lush are undertaking an epic cycling challenge in memory of Toms sister Charlotte, who died from an aggressive form of liver cancer last August at the age of 22.Tom and Joe will cycle 2,600km from Morocco to Plumpton Racecourse in Lewes over a three-week period to raise money to fund pioneering research into Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma (FLC), the disease which claimed Charlottes life.Charlotte was diagnosed with FLC at the age of 21. Chemotherapy is largely ineffective against the disease which affects around one in five million people, mostly aged 13-25. Life expectancy after diagnosis is around one year.Strength and courageCharlotte showed such incredible strength and courage through everything she faced, said Tom.No matter how many treatments and operations she had, or how tough things got, she never lost an ounce of her positivity.If she could go through all that, then Joe and I can certainly push through a couple of thousand kilometres on a bike.I made a promise to her that I would take on a challenge of this size and I know shell be there with me every step of the way.Even though she is my little sister, in so many ways, she is my hero. I am eternally proud of her and am determined to complete this challenge to support the research that could stop other families having to go through the same thing.Tom (L) and Joe are aiming to cycle from Morocco to Plumpton RacecourseFundraising targetTom and Joe are aiming to raise 25,000 to help fund pioneering research into finding a cure for FLC.The pair will begin their challenge today (Sunday 26 October) and are aiming to finish on Monday 17 November, the Charlotte Saville Memorial Raceday which combines seven races with key fundraising for the Charlotte Savill Memorial Foundation.The memorial raceday will feature a charity raffle with a top prize of a three-carat diamond which has been donated by Timothy Roe Jewellers, and an auction featuring prizes such as an African safari and a box at the Royal Albert Hall.Tom and his sister Charlotte.Racehorse sharesA racehorse purchased by Old Gold Racing will also be paraded on the day for visitors to buy shares in. Peter Savill, Charlottes father and the owner of Plumpton Racecourse, will be making an address at the charity raceday in honour of his daughter.For more information and to book tickets for the Charlotte Savill Raceday at Plumpton, click here.Click here to donate to Tom and Joes fundraising challenge.Related contentSaffron Cresswell and Ros Canter among guests at charity race daySwap birch for padded hurdles in interest of racehorse welfare, say researchersNew scheme will provide expert tuition to riders on former racehorsesNew mum rides to glory in SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse final at HOYSRiding on the gallops: expert advice to suit every type of horseThe post Racecourse director to cycle from Africa to the UK in memory of his sister appeared first on Your Horse.

Step Details Assess the Situation Calmly check for hoof damage and signs of lameness. Immediate attention to puncture wounds to prevent infections. Check for Discomfort Walk the horse on a flat surface to identify discomfort. Contact vet/farrier if swelling, heat, or lameness is noted. First Aid for the Hoof Use an emergency boot or wrap with gauze and duct tape. Keep the hoof clean and dry. Call Professional Help Contact the farrier to evaluate and reset the shoe. In severe cases, involve a veterinarian. Support Healing Consider therapeutic shoeing. Maintain a clean environment and follow prescribed care. Pain Management Administer anti-inflammatories and antibiotics if prescribed. Ensure a nutritious diet for hoof growth. Prevention & Long-term Care Use protective gear and regular farrier visits to prevent recurrence. Watch for secondary issues. Seek Immediate Help If lameness, visible punctures, deep cracks, heat, swelling, or infection signs are present, contact professionals immediately. Key Takeaways Stay calm, examine the hoof, protect it, contact professionals, and follow treatment and prevention strategies. What to Do If Your Horse Loses a Shoe and Damages Their Hoof? Horse owners, your heart-sinking feeling is entirely justified when you find your horse has lost a shoe. The situation is even more unnerving when the hoof is damaged. Fortunately, it's not an uncommon scenario, and knowing what to do next is crucial for protecting your horse from more severe injuries and infections. This comprehensive guide details each step to ensure a full recovery for your equine friend. Assess the Situation Immediately Its crucial to remain calm and assess the situation as soon as you notice the lost shoe. Carefully examine the hoof for obvious cracks, missing chunks, or punctures where nails might have been. Immediate attention to a puncture wound is vital as it can lead to infections and abscesses quickly. Watch out for signs of lameness, which indicates the urgent need for action. Checking for Discomfort Walk your horse on a firm, flat surface to identify any signs of discomfort. If your horse shows any visible reaction or you notice swelling or heat, contacting your vet and farrier should be your next step. First Aid for the Hoof Protecting the exposed hoof from further damage is your next priority. An emergency boot or a makeshift wrap using clean gauze and duct tape can prevent additional trauma and infection. Its crucial to keep the hoof as clean and dry as possible. Moist environments promote bacteria growth, making infection more likely. Calling for Professional Help Your farrier should be the first professional you contact. They will evaluate whether the damaged hoof wall supports shoe resetting or if therapeutic shoeing is essential. In severe cases, involving a veterinarian is crucial to prevent infections and more serious conditions. Supporting the Healing Process Therapeutic Resection and Shoeing If significant damage has occurred, professionals may recommend a hoof wall resection. This involves surgically removing the damaged section and applying a therapeutic shoe to protect and encourage healthy regrowth. Maintaining a clean and dry environment is vital for healing, and your horses movement will need to be restricted temporarily. Pain Management and Care Administer prescribed anti-inflammatories and pain relief to manage ongoing discomfort. If your vet prescribes antibiotics, its to prevent possible infections. A nutritious diet supports hoof regrowthconsider nutrition options low in sugar but rich in high-quality protein. Prevention and Long-term Management Prevent recurring issues by utilizing protective gear like bell boots or discussing glue-on shoes with your farrier. Regular farrier visits help monitor growth progress and ensure the fit of any replacements is suitable. Monitoring for Secondary Issues Be vigilant for complications such as hoof abscesses, white line disease, or laminitis after the trauma of a lost shoe. Watch for lameness or any abnormal sounds or shapes in the hoof structure. Turnout rugs can protect your horse's feet in muddy conditions. Real-Life Scenarios and Facts Its common for horse owners to deal with lost shoes, typically after weather changes or vigorous play. On average, healthy hoof walls grow about 1/4 to 3/8 inch a month, and recovery might extend further for damaged hooves. Muddy pastures increase infection risks post-injury. When to Seek Immediate Professional Help Your horse shows signs of lameness. There's a visible puncture or deep crack. A chunk of hoof is missing. The hoof appears hot, swollen, or is oozing. You suspect an abscess or infection. Better safe than sorryseek professional help early to protect your horse's long-term health. Key Takeaways Stay calm and carefully examine the hoof for damage. Shield the vulnerable hoof with a temporary boot and keep it clean. Contact your farrier and veterinarian as needed. Follow prescribed treatment and work on prevention strategies. For any further guidance, these sources are highly recommended: Equus Magazine for advice on lost shoes and hoof health. Outlaw Shoe for therapeutic shoeing guidance. The Horse; The Horse's Health Channel for veterinary insights. Final Thoughts Dealing with a lost shoe and damaged hoof can be stressful but knowing these necessary steps can prepare and protect you and your horse. Establish a solid relationship with your farrier and veterinarian, keep first-aid supplies handy, and maintain a suitable environment for optimal hoof health. With care and preparation, you and your horse will overcome these challenges confidently and safely. ```html```

Wilmington, Ohio This weeks Wilmington Sunday Spotlight shines on Orpen Horses, a distinguished, family-run sales and training operation led by Declan and Cassandra Orpen and Loic Cannaert. For the Orpens, Wilmington offers not only an ideal environment for producing and showcasing talented horses, but also a welcoming, accessible space to share the sport with their family. With its top-notchSource

Section Key Points Should You Seek a Second Opinion? Purchasing a horse involves financial, emotional, and time investment. A second opinion can be beneficial in ensuring a wise decision. Pre-Purchase Exam Vital for identifying health and suitability issues. 57.1% have findings; lameness is a common issue. When a Second Opinion is Needed Experienced vets might miss issues. Useful if unexpected issues arise or if a large investment is being made. What Experienced Buyers Do Most have ~17 years of experience, have purchased before, and value both tangible success and qualitative advice. Practical Steps for Buyers Research horse's history. Choose an experienced vet. Consider purchase method. Get guarantees in writing. Create a balance sheet. Legal and Financial Considerations With rising prices, legal disputes are common. Well-documented exams and understanding "as is" sales are crucial. Expert Recommendations Second opinions and buyer education can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful purchase. Real-World Scenarios High-value purchases: Second opinion recommended. International sales: Identify issues upfront. First-time buyers: Benefit from expert advice. The Bottom Line Second opinions are beneficial for high-value, international, or first-time purchases, or when initial findings are unclear. Should You Seek a Second Opinion Before Purchasing a Horse?Acquiring a horse isn't just a *financial commitment* but a significant emotional and time investment. Whether you are a seasoned *equestrian* or a *first-time buyer*, ensuring you make the right decision is crucial. One debated strategy is obtaining a second opinion before finalizing your purchase. Is it necessary? What risks and benefits are involved? Here, we delve into *expert advice* and practical considerations to make an informed choice.Why the Pre-Purchase Exam MattersBefore considering a second opinion, it's essential to understand the role of the pre-purchase exam (PPE). This veterinary assessment identifies health, soundness, and *suitability issues* that could affect the horse's ability to perform as intended. Research indicates that over half (57.1%) of horses undergoing pre-purchase exams had "prejudicial findings", primarily concerning lameness issues.The Case for a Second OpinionWhen a Single Vet Might Not Be EnoughEven the most experienced veterinarians can miss subtle signs or interpret findings differently. As one equine hospital advises, If in doubt about the findings, get a second opinion. This is particularly important if unexpected issues arise in the initial exam or if you're committing a *substantial sum* in your investment.Facts and Figures: How Common Are Missed Issues?While no large-scale studies compare single vs. dual vetting outcomes, the high rate of prejudicial findings implies that a second expert may reveal issues overlooked by the first vet. Horses are complex creatures, and certain conditions may not be evident during a standard exam.What Do Experienced Buyers Do?Research shows that most horse buyers fall into the *experienced* category, with around 17 years of riding experience and about two previous horse purchases. These buyers often *participate in horse shows* and value a horses showing success but also seek qualitative advice. Another segment, termed experts, rely more on gut feeling but still appreciate ongoing learning, indicating the value of consulting multiple sources.Practical Steps for Buyers Research the Horses History: Gather everything on past health, performance, and behavior. Ask for veterinary records and references. Choose Your Vet Wisely: Select a *veterinarian* with relevant experience and good reputation. Consider a second opinion if initial findings are ambiguous. Consider the Purchase Method: Whether through private treaty or auction, each option has pros and cons, affecting *pre-purchase trials* and vetting opportunities. Get Everything in Writing: Ensure all guarantees and conditions of sale are documented to protect both parties. Create a Balance Sheet: Evaluate pros and cons including health, temperament, and training to guide your decision.Legal and Financial ConsiderationsWith rising horse prices, legal disputes over soundness and suitability are more common. Misunderstandings often lead to lawsuits, where *well-documented exams* are crucial. In many jurisdictions, a horse is sold as is, which underscores the importance of thorough exams.Expert RecommendationsThe Oklahoma State University Extension advises that *second opinions* and *buyer education* greatly increase purchase success." Waller Equine Hospital suggests the cost of a comprehensive exam, or even a second opinion, equates to a wise investment to circumvent future heartache.Real-World Scenarios High-Value Purchases: The financial stakes are greater, and a missed issue can be drastically costly. International Sales: With complexities like shipping and quarantine, identifying issues upfront is critical. First-Time Buyers: Novices benefit significantly from additional expert advice, reducing poor match risks.The Bottom Line: Is a Second Opinion Worth It? Scenario Second Opinion Recommended? Why? High purchase price Yes Higher financial risk; more thorough vetting is prudent. Ambiguous initial findings Yes Clarifies doubts and reduces risk of oversight. International purchase Yes Costly to return; better to identify issues upfront. Experienced buyer, low price Maybe Buyers experience may suffice, but minimal cost for extra assurance. First-time buyer Yes Additional expert advice reduces risk of a poor decision. ConclusionSeeking a second opinion before purchasing a horse is a smart strategy for high-value, international, or first-time purchases, or when initial exams raise questions. While not every situation demands it, taking these steps aligns with due diligence practices that can save money, stress, and heartache in the long term.Remember, an informed buyer is more likely to end up with a horse meeting their expectations. As always, knowledge is power, especially in the world of horse buying.For more information on horse purchasing advice, check out the Oklahoma State University Extension.Visit our Jodhpur Collection, Horse Riding Boot Collection, Horse Riding Gloves Collection, and Horse Riding Socks Collection for more equestrian gear. Don't forget to browse our Horse Treats And Gifts and Everyday Horse Vitamins & Supplements.```html```

A celebrity polo match organised by farrier and TikTok star Sam Dracott has raised thousands of pounds for an equine charity.Equestrian influencersHarlow White, Megan Elphick, Silly Prune and Demir Topcu,Love IslandsPaige Turley andMade in ChelseasJames Taylor contested the Dracott Cup at Ash Farm Polo in aid ofRedwings Horse Sanctuary last week.The hundreds of fans who flocked to the Surrey venue had the opportunity for a meet and greet with Sam, who played polo as a child, Megan, Demir and Prune before taking to the stands to watch the action.Megan Elphick, Demir Topcu, Silly Prune and Sam Dracott at The Dracott Cup.Professionals take partThe action started with a polo lesson for the celebrities with Charlotte Sweeney from Ash Farm Polo.Sam, the celebrities and Charlotte were then joined by professional players James Mann, Nick Van Oppen, Ruby Byrne and Lulu Saunders before being split into four teams Team Dracott, Team Horse, Team Pony and Team Rider.The teams, which were composed of a professional, an intermediate and a beginner polo player, went head-to-head in the arena in four high paced chukkas, with Team Horse being crowned the winners.Some of the celebrities who took part in the Dracott Cup.MVP revealedMegan Elphick was awarded Most Valuable Player and received a custom cowgirl hat from Bad Cowgirl, who were present with their hat bar and statement accessories for the modern cowgirl. As well as Bad Cowgirl, there were an array of stalls and food and drink stands.It was an incredible day we were over the moon to see so many amazing talents turn out to support, said Sam, who will bestarring in the How To Yard at Your Horse Live on all three days. Its not often you get to work with people you consider friends, and today we all had such fun both in and out of the arena raising money for a great cause and having a laugh while doing it is the dream. We will definitely be doing it again.Tickets for Your Horse Live, which takes place at Stoneleigh Park from Friday 7 Sunday 9 November, are on sale now.Images Gillian Hughes Photography.More from Your HorseThree exercises to prepare for jumping indoors this winterHow to get ready for autumn with your horse11 clipping tips for the perfect finish to your horses coatWhen do horses feel cold? Points to consider when ruggingThe post Celebrity polo match raises money for equine charity appeared first on Your Horse.

Coyle maintains Incredible run as youthful Green Jackets win Nations CupThe Irish enjoyed plenty of success around the show jumping world once again, even if five-star wins just eluded Daniel Coyle, who was second twice with Incredible at the 67th Washington International Horse Show, most notably in Saturday nights Presidents Cup.Those results propelled Coyle to the top of the North American League table for the FEI World Cup and Conor Swail registered three top-five finishes to leave the Prince Georges Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro in fourth.It was, of course, a very emotional week for Swail, as it began with his announcement that Count Me In would be retiring to Conall Murrays Mannon Farm, in Swails own home town of Darragh Cross.Conor Swail celebrates aboard Count Me In after securing victory for Ireland in the Aga Khan Trophy at the RDS after a dramatic jump-off, in 2022. Count Me In has been retired to Mannon Farm in Darragh Cross (Piaras Midheach/Sportsfile)Crosby was a five-star winning machine, once ranked No 2 in the world and the now 18-year-old helped his rider hit No 4. He will be indelibly linked with the Aga Khan Trophy, which he helped secure for Ireland in the most dramatic fashion in 2022 with three clear rounds, including that nerve-wracking but flawless jump-off to realise a lifelong dream for his rider.Back in Europe, Denis Lynch secured a four-star podium in Lige, while at three-star level, a very young Irish team of Susan Fitzpatrick, Niamh McEvoy, Max Wachman and Ethen Ahearne won the Nations Cup in Vejer de la Frontera, with Taylor Vard as chef dequipe, while Cian OConnor left with an individual victory under his belt.There were a couple of two-star wins also in Andaluca for Frano Derwin, including in the Grand Prix, in which McEvoy bagged the silver medal, and Daniel Fitzgerald was also on the victory trail at Sentower Park.On Friday, Coyle was just touched off in the international accumulator competition on time by Rodrigo Pessoa, the Brazilian who was chef dequipe of Irelands European Championships winning team in 2017.The thrilling 1.45m class, which had the added ingredient of the riders and horses wearing themed costumes, went down to fine margins, with the top eight all scoring 65 points.They included Swail and Theo but their time of 49.26 meant they had to settle for fourth.You might need to look twice, or three times, but thats Daniel Coyle and Incredible, in full Mr Incredible garb, on their way to a silver medal in the five-star accumulator in Upper MarlboroCoyle and Incredible who had the very obvious Mr Incredible to base themselves on got even closer to the lions share of the prize money, stopping the timers in 47.51 but Pessoa and Corrie 9 shaved 0.19 of that mark to land the honours, with the previous nights winners, McLain Ward (USA) and First Lady completing a high-class podium.On Saturday, the Ardmore-reared world No 9 and Incredible excelled once more, this time sporting regulation uniform. They found American favourite, Laura Kraut and the appropriately named Tres Bien Z unbeatable in the shows feature, the Presidents Cup Trophy for the $340,000 FEI Jumping World Cup.Fittingly for such a prestigious prize, and even though the world No 1 Kent Farrington (USA) and No 2 Ben Maher (GBR) were in the field and a total of 12 Olympians, there were only three double clears and the first by Kraut, with a time of 40.83 seconds, could not be bested.Incredible is no slouch, of course, and in Coyle has an astute navigator. The duo gave it a real go and stopped the clock in 41.14 to secure $68,000, with Maher in third on Faltic HB.Swail was the personification of consistency at the Show Place Arena, and prior to Theos fourth in the aforementioned accumulator had collected a couple of ribbons on Thursdays opening day of international competition at the Maryland venue.Swail kicked off with a fourth-place finish on Casturano in the Welcome Stakes. The 1.55m competition was won after an exciting jump-off by Ward (USA) and First Lady, but Swail and the 12-year-old gelding owned, like Count Me In, by Murray, registered two excellent clear rounds, slotting into fifth with a time of 35.53 seconds in the tiebreaker.The Down man was in the stirrups on Theo 160 in the Stars and Stripes Speed Final after that and the pair navigated the 1.50m class clear in 57.26 seconds, narrowly missing out on a podium position in a class won comfortably by Daniel Bluman (ISR) with Gemma W.Lynch was in action at the four-star show in Lige and kicked off on Thursday with a bronze medal in the Prix Lige Airport on board Katja.There were 58 participants in the 1.45m speed class and the only Irish representative steered his ten-year-old mare to the top echelons with a blemish-free trip in a time of 60.07 seconds, behind Niklaus Rautschi (SUI) and Oxana Vd Bisschop, who took the overall spoils in 58.25, and runner-up Jrme Guery (BEL), who clocked 58.61 with Gigolo Di Villagna.Doing alright, getting good grades, the futures so bright I gotta wear shadesIn three-star competition, pride of place went to Vards Nations Cup winning team in Andaluca (above and main pic).The Green Jackets unit of Susan Fitzpatrick with Lovely Stassi PS, Niamh McEvoy with Olympic GL FVD, Max Wachman with Tipperary and Ethen Ahearne with Heritage Bloodstock-bred Irish Sport Horse LVS Goldrush H, excelled to take the top spot with just six faults, two clear of Brazil on eight.Clear rounds by Fitzpatrick and Ahearne, in company with McEovys two time faults set a brilliant platform for the triumph.Fitzpatrick had four faults to get the second stanza under way but with McEvoy leaving all the rails up again the second time but crucially within the required time, and Wachman putting the disappointment of eight first-round faults in the rear view mirror with a perfect trip, there was no need for Ahearne to even get in the saddle only to accept the garlands and the plaudits of the appreciative public.Canbella Blue PS has been jumping some lovely rounds for OConnor in the past few weeks and they earned their reward for that reliability by scoring in the three-star Stephex Trophy in Vejer de la Frontera on Saturday.Three-star winners Canbella Blue PS and Cian OConnor in Vejer de la FronteraCompeting against 75 other combinations in the 1.50m two-phase class, the world No 24 and his 11-year-old mare owned by Karlswood Partners recorded a fantastic double clear.It was the time in the speed phase that was scarcely believable however, the timers stopping at 21.14 seconds to leave no room for argument about the result. Runner-up Carlee McCutcheon (USA) was more than two seconds in arrears with Aralyn Blue.Fridays Nations Cup winner, Fitzpatrick completed a memorable weekend by finishing fifth in the Diputacin de Cdiz Grand Prix with Valisco PS.There were 14 contestants in the jump-off, with four Irish athletes in total. Ahearne and LVS Goldrush (ISH) had four faults, however, as did Tom Wachman with Oboras Laura and OConnor with Gengis Kann de Londe, meaning they had to settle for minor prize money.Fitzpatrick and Valisco PS were outstanding though, going clear again in 41.13 to grab a valuable top-five finish and only two-hundredths of a second away from fourth. Victory whent to Jodie Hall McAteer (GBR) with Key West.In Saturdays other ranking class at Andaluca, the 1.45m two-star Grand Prix, the Irish were very well represented on the podium. The winnerd for the second time in the week were Derwin and Parvati AEG, in a very competitive 14-horse tiebreaker, beating off McEvoy, who was riding the Austin Broderick-bred BP Rocket Man (ISH). OConnor was fourth with Corinna Z.Derwin was victorious first on Friday in a 1.45m speed class. In a competition that was contested by a whopping 86 combinations, the Athlone man guided Parvati AEG to a clear in 62.85, more than a second faster than the best of the rest, Germanys Tom Schewe with Lester, in the Milton Sand Arena.At Sentower Park, Daniel Fitzgerald won a 1.45m two-phase special with Grifonder du Rouet on Saturday, snatching the honours with a 31.33 clear in the speed portion of the competition. Eoin McMahon was third with Disney Z.BREEDINGLVS GOLDRUSH H (ISH) 2016 gelding by Stakkato Gold (HANN) out of Arcadia Lvs Z (ZANG) by Arko III (OLD). Breeder: Heritage Bloodstock LTD. Owner: Dermot Walsh. Rider: Ethen Ahearne (IRL).BP ROCKET MAN (ISH) 2017 br gelding by Stakkato Gold (HANN) out of BP Quidy (ISH) by Quidam Junior (KWPN). Breeder: Austin Broderick (Ballypatrick Stables), Co Tipperary. Owner: Richard Kirby. Rider: Niamh McEvoy (IRL)The post Past, present and future in lights this week appeared first on .

Equestrian travel is always at the top of my bucket list. Id already been on several horseback riding holidays in Ireland, and knew that any chance to ride there shouldnt be missed. So when the opportunity arose to head to the Emerald Isle, I jumped at the opportunity.Photo by Amber HeintzbergerCastle LeslieWith just a week available, I had to make the most out of every day. After spending a day recovering from jetlag and catching up with friends, it was off to Castle Leslie in County Monaghan. Located on the border of Northern Ireland, this was a perfect couple of days of horse-themed luxury.I rented a car for the week, and while I adjusted pretty quickly to driving on the left-hand side of the road and shifting gears with my left hand, train service is available for anyone who doesnt want the added stress of navigating the country roads by car. The castle has an illustrious family history, and offers several options for accommodations. If you really want to make a splash, you can stay in the castle proper, or if youd prefer more peace and quiet, the Old Stable Mews are located far out back on the property.Castle Leslie. Photo by Amber HeintzbergerMost people interested in riding will be content to stay in The Lodge, which is connected to the stables and features the upscale Snaffles restaurant, drinks at Connors Pub, and a spa for relaxing after time in the saddle.I arranged the trip to Castle Leslie through Unicorn Trails Horse Riding Holidays Worldwide, and the reservation process was easy and well managed. Every detail of the trip was smoothly planned in advance, and checking in at The Lodge was an easy process. The accommodations were well equipped and exceedingly comfortable. It was a huge highlight that the small balcony overlooked the stable yard.My kids were heading back to school that week, but airfare from New Jersey to Ireland drops significantly in September: my flight was about $400, compared to over $1,000 in August.My non-horsey husband agreed to deal with the back-to-school week so I could enjoy an adventure with my old friend, George Barry, who Ive known since we were teenagers, when he and his sister and my brother competed in the International Tetrathlon exchange through Pony Club back in the late 1990s.Wed traveled together before, and hes a competent rider, and since riding is a high-risk sportand so is driving a car in IrelandI felt a little safer traveling with a companion.Cross-Country JumpingAfter settling in, we stretched our legs with a wander around the grounds and the castle. That evening we enjoyed an elegant six-course dinner at Snaffles. The food was delicious, featuring mainly locally sourced, fresh ingredients, and the service was impeccable. After dinner, we wandered out the door to the stables and admired the facilities and horses before retiring for the evening.The full Irish breakfast the next morning was equally as impressive as dinner, if not more so. There was also an impressive array of fresh fruit, pastries and other breakfast items that left me wishing my appetite was larger. But with our horses waiting, I reined in my appetite. After changing into boots and breeches, we headed out to the stables.The horses were fit and well cared for, and the borrowed helmets and cross-country vests were in good condition and up to the latest safety standards. I rode a gorgeous big gray mare named Blueberry, while George was on a stout gelding named Arnie. Im 511, and Blueberry took up my leg nicely. There were horses of all shapes and sizes, for riders of all shapes, sizes and levels of experience. A questionnaire in advance made sure that we met our ideal match.Our instructor, Steven Carty, performed a brief assessment before we set off across the countryside. Steven was lovely and we chatted about the horses, the lifestyle working at the stables, and the history of the estate. If wed had another night, I would have enjoyed sitting down with him for a pint at Connors Pub.The jumps were on the small side, but since we were both out of practice, it was perfect. The cross-country course is extensive, but since we only had one day, we kept things simple, and the horses clearly knew the drill.Next, we made our way to the corner of the lake, where we could jump in and out from a small bank or down a series of steps. Splashing through the lake with the castle in the background felt like a scene from a fairytale.The cross-country course included a series of small steps down to the water. Photo by Amber HeintzbergerA walk in the woods that afternoon left me wishing we had more time to explore the estate. It was a peaceful way to wrap up our short visit, as the grounds and gardens are just as beautiful as the buildings.The Wild Atlantic WayI would have happily spent a week at the castle living the life of luxury, but our next stop would bring plenty of fun adventures. (In fact, if I were to do the trip again, Id arrange to head to the castle after the beach).A couple hours drive west to County Mayo brought us to the small coastal town of Westport, a scenic village set on the calm, clear waters of Clew Bay. The bay is home to a number of tiny islandsone for every day of the yearand set in the shadow of Croagh Patrick, the mountain where Saint Patrick is said to have driven the snakes from Ireland.This segment of the trip was organized by Ireland Equestrian Tours and operated by Go Trekking Ireland. Laura Lamb of Ireland Equestrian Tours sent a number of brochures over with information about the various options, and the Wild Atlantic Way seemed a good fit for a bit of adventure and beach riding after our cross-country schooling up in County Monaghan.We stayed at Georges uncle Johns house on the way, and got an early start to Westport so that we could be out riding early, before the tide came in. We met the proprietor of the Westport Woods Hotel, Michael Lennon, who took us to his stables to select our horses for a beach ride. I chose a tall, athletic and solidly built chestnut hunter type named Coady, while George rode a gray named Naymar.Beach Ride to RememberWe followed the horsebox to a spot where we unloaded and mounted up. Four of us set off across the bay. Our guide, Joanne Mason, was on a smaller cob who was fairly submerged in some of the deeper water crossings, so I was glad to be on a long-legged sport horse!Amber and George had a blast galloping Coady and Naymar down the beach. Photo by Amber HeintzbergerEventually we ended up on Bertra Strand, where we had a good gallop on the beach and then rode out on a grassy headland overlooking a couple of large islands. After clattering over a stony section, we came to another beach where we rode out in the waves, before crossing back over to Bertra Strand for another good gallop in the shadow of Croagh Patrick. By the time we wrapped up our antics, the tide had come in, so we picked our way around the bay and back to the horsebox.After riding, we stopped at a local pub for a truly Irish experience: drinking a pint in front of a peat fire. While harvesting peat is banned in much of the country, some locals are still allowed to harvest a limited amount using ancient methods, and the particular smoky atmosphere in the pub evoked a bygone era.If you go, make sure to get out and explore nearby towns, restaurants and pubs for a taste of the local flair. Photo by Amber HeintzbergerAt Michaels suggestion, we spent the afternoon at Ballinrobe Races, about 45 minutes south. It was the final meet of the season and there was a good crowd out for the racing. This was a fun way to see another aspect of the Irish horse industry and enjoy the excitement of placing a few small bets. I braved the bookies and bet a couple of Euros on two winning horses, bringing home around 40 Euros and a slightly inflated sense of my ability to judge a winning horse.Ballinrobe Races provided a fun way to see another aspect of the Irish horse industry. Photo by Amber HeintzbergerThat evening, we settled on the Westway Pub in downtown Westport for a bite to eat. The food was fresh and simple and the atmosphere smart but casual. Id hoped to stop in to listen to the traditional music at another pub up the street, but with another day of riding planned, opted for an early bedtime instead.Surfing BeachThe next morning the horses were hauled to Carrownisky Strand, a popular surfing beach a half-hour or so down the road. It was a gorgeous, sunny day and a little surreal unloading the horses in a sandy parking area populated mainly by surfers and families taking their kids to the beach for the day.We made a bit of a spectacle, galloping on the wide, sandy beach, which is the home to an annual horse race. The horses were eager to go and we were all too happy to oblige, with sea spray splashing in our grinning faces.To cool the horses out, we hacked to the nearby Bunlahinch Clapper Footbridge, the largest complete clapper bridge in Ireland, at 50 meters long. Its 37 arches are constructed in a primitive style, each made of flat limestone slabs, and likely dates to the 1840s.On the way back, we walked past cow pastures and bogs where sheep were grazing on the verdant grass, later taking another lively canter down the beach. The horses were very fit and had plenty in the tank to give another good run. Mountain RideThe original plan was to do the mountain ride the following day, but with stormy weather in the forecast, I opted to join a group going out that afternoon. After a short rest at the hotel, I headed back to the stables with Michael and an American woman and her daughter who had just arrived on holiday. (George had taken an unplanned dismount into the saltwater on our beach ride and wasnt keen to go on a three-hour ride in soaking wet clothing, so he stayed behind and had a stroll around the town). I was on Coady once again, and we rode directly from the stables and enjoyed a long, leisurely hack to the base of the mountain. Other than an easy canter up a long gravel track, this ride maintained a leisurely pace and was a good opportunity to take in views of the peat bog, the mountain, and sweeping views of Clew Bay, following narrow lanes winding over hills and through little valleys past cottages and farms.Riders enjoyed a long, leisurely ride to the base of the mountain, a good opportunity to take in views of the peat bog, mountain, and sweeping views of Clew Bay. Photo by Amber HeintzbergerThat evening, we walked from the hotel to the Quay for dinner at the Towers Pub, a little more upscale than the previous evenings location. Following Joannes recommendation, we followed dinner with pink gin cocktails garnished with strawberries at the Coast Hotel across the street. It was charming and refreshing and a nice accompaniment to the live music featured that evening.All too soon, it was time to head to the airport, return the trusty rental car and fly home.Ambers Packing Tips and List for an Irish Riding HolidayThis article about a horseback riding holiday in Ireland appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustratedmagazine.Click here to subscribe!The post A Horseback Riding Holiday in Ireland appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.