NEWS

Joanne Fox

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One message that came through loud and clear from all the speakers at last week’s Teagasc National Equine Conference was that if the aim is to breed for the international show jumping market, then put faith in genetics.

Top pedigrees win out time and again, as emphasised in numerous examples from all speakers. Mares must be good models with excellent canter lending to rideability.

Crucially important is strength and depth of the dam line in terms of mares and stallions in multiple generations with aptitude to compete at top level and/or produce international performers of merit. As Jacques Verkerk of the Dutch Equestrian Federation said: “The more challenging your set of goals, the more improvement you make.”

Such a small number from all stud books make it to the top echelons of the sport but there is still a lucrative market for sound, good-looking, balanced, well-produced and rideable horses at 1.30m to 1.45m level and even for the right models at 1.20m, as emphasised by show jumpers Clem McMahon and Greg Broderick. The fact that so many Irish riders are based abroad, particularly in the USA, is a huge bonus given most are traders and only too delighted to come back to fill their order books if the supply is provided.

Renowned horse producer Paul Hendrix, while underlining his confidence that we have the wherewithal, given very strict selection and smart choice of sires, to make swift progress, also issued caution that we must not repeat the sins of the past and must hold on to the good mares and fillies.

Clem encouraged breeders to go show jumping and research stallions at the ringside through their progeny. He urged caution in focusing too much on carefulness, suggesting the ultra careful horses that lack scope for the top level can be unsuitable for amateurs. Breed in scope and rideability and a good canter but don’t expect the sire to do all the work.

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Greg urged care to complement the mare in choice of sire. Some sires just don’t fit well with particular types or pedigrees of mares. Talk to the riders. Get closer to the sport.

Pat Connolly, in speaking on the use of frozen or imported semen, advised breeders to pay per pregnancy, not per dose, to avoid disappointment and to work closely with a good vet. Carmel Ryan explained the need to be proactive in researching information on stallions and if employing riders to keep a close eye and be sure they are a good match for the horse.

All presentations are available on the Teagasc website at www.teagasc.ie.