URGENT.

Register your opposition to the imminent E.U. ban on the use of medicinal herbs.

Please take some time out and watch or listen to this and then please please sign the petition, it will affect all of us.You can then pass the link on to friends and family who also use and benefit from the use of herbs.

  From a correspondent who attended the CPBS AGM on Sunday April 3rd 2011 came the following report :-

  The newly elected members were Paraic Heanue, Paraic Hynes, along with John Varley and John Joe O’Neill.    And Frank Quinn, who caused a stir in a debate with Mr. Power, who in turn continued to shout at Quinn demanding the microphone be taken away from him.

Michael Igoe refused to sit with the Council and also attacked them from the floor, regarding the fact Henry O’Toole had used Glencarrig Knight to cover before he was inspected, and then Henry announced that he also used a yearling to cover, ( which he later corrected by stating this yearling had broken in and covered the mare). A lot of people on the floor were angry about this,  and said that any foal that is bred by a stallion while they are a grade 3  should mean that the foal produced should stay a grade 3.

The Inspections of the new colts then dominated the meeting.  People ( whose colts had been turned down ) took it on the chin when their colts failed in the first round, but on viewing the 3rd and 4th stages in the final at Clifden and seeing the rubbish that stood before them it revealed the entire process to be a joke.

   What do our members think ?  Any responses will be published only with the permission of the member, and anonymously if so desired.

 

NEWS FROM THE CPBS

Colt Inspections

 Some changes have been made to the Inspection process and were outlined on the application form. There is also a detailed description of the new four stage inspection procedure following on below the application form itself. 

Reduction in Fees

The CPBS is delighted to announce that the Council have reduced the prices of doing transactions with the Society for members. Parentage testing kits and foal registration for colts and fillies will now cost €50. Filly inspection fees have been reduced to €55. Transfer of ownership now costs €10 and duplicate passports cost €150. These price changes have immediate effect and only apply to members of the CPBS. 

NICPBA comment.

    Since one of the points made on the recent submission made by the NICPBA concerned registration costs, it is to be welcomed that this change has been implemented. 

    Regarding the colt inspections, time will tell whether or not the new system is fairer, but it is disappointing that the venue for the final stages is not as accessible to the greater part of the country as a geographic centre such as Mullingar would have been.  This is bound to discourage some colt owners, bearing in mind travelling costs and accomodation. One also has to wonder if parochialism will play a part in the selection of colts.   There is still no value accorded to bloodlines, despite the Connemara database facility of an inbreeding calculator - a matter which has to be seriously addressed if the gene pool is to be diversified.  Nor are the Clifden Showgrounds ideal for holding inspections, as this letter, received from one of our members, points out -

  " I just looked at CPBS site and am disgusted at the way they have decided to inspect colts from now on.  As we discussed ( at the NICPBA members meeting called after the communication was received from Council, Editor)  all colts have an inspection in each province.  Each of these centres will recommend which colts will then go to Clifden.  Stage 1 and 2 will be held locally and 3 and 4 in Clifden. What annoys me is not the journey or the cost, but the fact these are no facilities in Clifden to hold these inspections.  No parking except on the public road and then you have to lead a young colt along this public road - who's insurance covers this ?   There is nowhere to walk/trot the ponies except a short walkway in front of the stables, and then loose jumping alongside the river where I have heard numerous complaints.  The letter the NICPBA wrote was given some thought I reckon, read and thrown in the bin along with the others."

 Feb. 17th.

 

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Horse & Hound Hero.

 

 

A  recent issue of Horse & Hound included  a report of Silver Fox II, who has been awarded the accolade of Pony of the Year in G.B.  His points, mostly accumulated in Working Hunter competition, made him Connemara Pony Performance Champion for 2010.  The little 133 cm gelding, a son of Ganty Blazer ( S 876 ), proves that

you can still have a pony bred from traditional type, yet get great performance. 

 Nor does a pony need to be 'the full of the stick'  to get to the top !

  Thanks to Jane Somerville of Ardville Stud for bringing the news.

 

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SUBMISSION TO THE CPBS

for consideration at their Council meeting on January 25th, 2011.

     The views and suggestions expressed in the message below were compiled from notes taken at the NICPBA members meeting on January 19th, and from items submitted by members unable to attend or at previous meetings. The January meeting was called after Mr. Henry O'Toole contacted our group some few days earlier on behalf of the CPBS Council,  to ask for our input.

Message Sent: Friday, 21 January, 2011 0:01:27
Subject: NICPBA submission to CPBS Council. Jan. 2011.

  From NICPBA membership to the CPBS Council, following the invitation via Mr.Henry O'Toole to submit views and ideas for the operation of the Society.

  Item 1. Inspections.

 Given the figure by Mr.O'Toole that 93% of fillies pass inspection ( does this refer to  2010 ? or is it an average figure over several years ? ), it was questioned by some whether filly  inspections need to be carried out at all.   A view expressed by some is that since the stud book has been closed for so long, all ponies should be considered 'pure bred',  and birth registration sufficient. 

  Another view was that allowing lesser quality ponies to pass in this and previous years has reduced the quality of the stock. As a result, it was felt that inspections are needed, and that stricter criteria should be applied, provided the procedures are demonstrably open, consistent and fair to all applicants.

  It was reported that there is a difficulty in recruiting willing inspectors, and the attitude of 'secrecy' surrounding the inspection process makes it difficult for both parties.  Also, it is felt that at times, there is more consideration given to who owns or bred the pony, than the quality of the animal itself. Openness would help reassure the owners that neutrality can be applied. Inspections can  be an opportunity to educate the breeder on what is required in a good pony, by giving a commentary to the spectating public.

  It was recommended that the individual inspectors remain apart from each other, with no conferring, during the inspection.  They should be well trained in the points to be examined ( i.e. type, conformation, movement,  etc., ).  Some members reported that it has been their experience that some inspectors make minimum effort to mark the ponies, despite obvious differences in quality, and felt that the quality of the ponies is not reflected in the marks received. Considering the size of the inspection fee,  and the fact that it is a lifetime judgement,  the ponies deserve at least as much time and as good a scrutiny as they get in a show ring.  

 Applicants are required to sign that they accept  without question the  judgements of the inspectors, effectively waiving their right to an appeal . Our membership would like to know if this requirement to sign the waiver is even legal ? 

  There is also little consistency in marking, and guidance as to an agreed written standard is recommended. This standard should be available to all applicants and mandatory study for all inspectors. 

  One well expressed view is that if the pony is not distinctive and instantly recognisable as a Connemara, it cannot be considered to have sufficient 'type'.  As has happened, if very typical ponies are awarded only around 75 % for type, despite being 100 % Connemara bred, how are the lesser ones to be considered ?

  Another consideration is that poor mares, which are more likely to produce poor foals, damage the reputation of good stallions.  In theory a stallion owner can refuse to cover a mare which they consider unsuitable, but it practice, this rarely happens.

  It is also felt that the marking sheets should be more comprehensive, and constructed so as to be less subject to manipulation ( has not a means of fairer marking been offered to the CPBS in the past ? ). The present system makes it too easy to pass or fail a pony on an opinion, rather than for a real fault in the animal.  It has been said that the Society plans to measure bone in future. It is hoped that this will be by a method which leaves no room for dispute, and the membership would appreciate being advised on how this is to be achieved.

 Welfare concerns were expressed, in that some animals presented at inspections have clearly not been properly cared for.  

 The surface on which ponies are walked, trotted up and measured should be suitable ( i.e. level, free from hazards, not too stoney, not so soft as to mask lameness ) and consistent from one venue to another. 

  It was appreciated that the CPBS inspection committee came further north this past autumn, and hoped that they found the central venue suitable and will continue to facilitate the Northern breeders in this way.    

 

 Specifically with reference to colt inspections, their athletic ability should be judged by competent persons, with these perhaps coming from outside the breed, and with no vested interest. Those who breed ponies for the show ring or as breeding stock often have no knowledge of jumping technique

 It was suggested that colts presented for inspection should have already passed a recent five stage vetting, thus saving expense for those unfit to go forward as there would be no point in wasting the inspectors' time nor that of the owners.  Some felt that a farrier as well as a vet should be involved in the inspection process.

 Mr.O'Toole informed our group that it was suggested to hold perhaps 4 preliminary regional colt inspections, with the best colts coming to one final venue and therefore easier to compare them with each other, so being as fair and consistent as possible.  The concensus at the NICPBA members meeting was that the venue should be central, and therefore accessible from all parts of the country within a days travel there and home again. Good roads to the venue, and plenty of parking space are also essential.  

 Item 2. Number of stallions.

It is a clear and accepted fact that the ratio of mares to stallions is very low, and that there is an over supply of colts to serve the Connemara brood mare base alone ( though it must be remembered that some cover outside the breed ).   Mr.O'Toole has told us that in future a limit may be imposed to the number of new colts accepted into Grade One. However, if in any one year the majority were sub-standard, and in another year most were tremendous colts, setting an annual limit, or a limit per venue or percentage,  could prove counter-productive.

It was reported to the NICPBA meeting  that the Breeding Committee set up by request  of the CPBS Council gave  recommendations that :-

A.  All stallions be tested to determine whether they carry sweet-itch.

B.   It  should be recorded on stallion passports if they carry the cream gene.

C.   Colts with rare or uncommon bloodlines should be awarded Grade One status, even if they have minor deficiencies which would otherwise exclude them from that status. 

 

With reference to rare bloodlines and out-crossed ponies, the In-breeding Co-efficient ( IBC value ) should also be accurately calculated and recorded on the passport, especially for stallions. ( Unfortunately the CPBS database is inaccurate in places - look up the pedigree of Rebel, for example.    How can it be depended upon at all ? )    It would be much better to give such colts the chance to get good stock by using them on suitable mares than to lose the bloodline. Deirdre Feely's research has already confirmed that the genetic variety of the Connemara population is dangerously limited .  

 The purpose of these recommendations is to inform the mare owner, and enable them to make an informed choice for suitable matings.  As an Association, we give our full backing to these recommendations.

 Item 3.  Height. 

It was expressed that breeders aiming for the performance market can find the society measurements incompatible with their requirements.  

 Another view was that over-height ponies, however well they sell in a performance market, are changing the character of the breed.  There is a tendency to favour larger ponies in the show ring, and concerns were expressed that this is especially apparent in youngstock classes.  This only tends to encourage  an upward trend in height. Smaller ponies, while still within the breed standard, are often unfairly disregarded solely because of their size. 

 

   Measurements at inspections can be highly inaccurate. It has been the experience of some that a pony, clearly over 148, has been recorded as being within the 128 - 148 cm limits stated in the stud book.  In some cases a big pony has been allowed to pass, even if it is immature and may reasonably be expected to grow, ( and conversely a 127 cm  pony at 2 y-old has been turned down ).  In other cases, the over height pony has been recorded at 148 cm and yet turned down on some other pretext, perhaps falsely.  This is both incomprehensible and unacceptable. 

  

   Where the pony is stood to be measured is not always suitable. Measurements conducted at Ecclesville have been on both sloped ground and on stoney ground.   We as owners are paying  for a service, and we deserve fairness and accuracy.  

  Laser measurement was suggested by the CPBS Breeding Committee for all those ponies entered at Clifden. This method could be considered for any ponies to be shown in Connemara classes throughout the country, perhaps with a measurement certificate issued at the beginning of the season and valid for the year, with lifetime measurement for ponies of mature age, as with other societies  ( e.g. the IPS ). Laser measurement could also be considered at inspections.

  Item 3.  Costs of registrations and inspections.

  In view of the economic downturn and reduced  prices for ponies, many do not consider it viable to register their foals at all, especially colt foals, or are holding back as long as they can.  It is strongly felt that the CPBS ,  if they are to encourage foal registrations, must reduce fees to an absolute minimum, and possibly consider subsidising foals registrations for a few years, until the economic situation resolves.  Parentage testing at Wetherby's Ireland costs 20 euros, as reported by a member who has recently used the service. Another member was able to get a passport with Parentage recorded from the IHB for 40 euros. ( The NIHB issue DNA tested passports for £45 to their members, though this does not include supplying a microchip. )

 That in the current economic climate, the CPBS reduce inspection fees to a viable amount also, and not view them largely as revenue earning opportunities. Taking a long term view, this could help sustain society revenues into the future.  

 Item 4.    The Clifden Office.

  No-one at our meeting could comprehend how five staff, equipped with state of the art facilities, are unable to answer telephones or e-mails.  There is also serious discontent regarding the time it takes to have passports returned.  Having been told by the CPBS secretary that all passports are processed in the same order that they are received in the office, one member reported having had two books returned six weeks apart, despite sending them to Clifden in the same envelope, and by recorded delivery.  A member who had given in his foal registration application in person was able to tell the meeting that actual processing took only 10 minutes, which makes the months usually taken to return passports even more frustrating. This situation seriously needs to be amended.

   A question was raised about parentage testing, as to why the CPBS still insist on the invasive technique of blood-sampling, rather than DNA testing from hair root sampling.  Having recently heard from the laboratory at Wetherby's , one member was able to explain that the CPBS regard blood-typing as less subject to falsification, as it must be carried out by a vet.  Attempts at falsifying records would show up in the following generation at least, where the animal concerned went on to breed a foal.  

 However, in the case of a genuine mix-up between two samples, in which there was never any intent to deceive, the member concerned found no willingness from either the lab or the office to simply re-label the samples, and that member has now to go to the trouble and expense of re-marking and re-sampling both foals.

   Item 5.   Cream ponies.

   Opinions varied to a degree about the Blue-eyed cream Connemara ponies.  Some like them and appreciate their qualities, while others remain wary. One said he did not dislike them, but would still not want to breed one.   A further opinion was that they ought to be eligible for Grade One at inspection, or awarded  it retrospectively if they have already been presented, on  just the same grounds as any other colour - especially as the CPBS charge the same inspection fee.  The cream gene did not come into the breed from the Arab, the Thoroughbred, or the Welsh via Cannon Ball, which means it must have been in the population right from the beginning, probably from the influx of Spanish blood.  DNA research has proved the close relationship of the Andalusian  and Lusitano to the Connemara.. A gene which has been in the pony all along cannot be excluded from the definition of type. To hold in disfavour the palomino and chestnut, who are included in the breed standard is to compound the prejudice.  

   Item 6.   Payment options.

  Some members find difficulty with the payment methods offered by the Society, as not everyone has a credit or debit card, nor wants one, and few have a euro account.   Other NICPBA members suggested solutions to this, so it is hoped these will help.

  Item 7.    Broken engagement.  

 Last year the CPBS advertised an educational seminar, which was to take place in March in Dungannon. Firstly this was organised with no consultation with the NICPBA, and we had to postpone our AGM.    It would be appreciated if in future the CPBS would check with us and agree a mutually suitable date.  In the event, the CPBS seminar was called off at the very last minute.  Upon contacting the CPBS president, we were assured that it would be re-scheduled a month later. To date there has been no CPBS seminar.  This is extremely disappointing.

Item 8.   From previous discussions.  

  It is felt that the REPS  in the South has been detrimental to the population, by encouraging over-production, especially by breeders who neither know nor care about the true character and quality and worldwide reputation of the Connemara pony. Inevitably this has created welfare problems as well as exacerbating economic difficulties.  Meanwhile Northern breeders received little encouragement to keep good mares, since very few have ever been awarded Premium Mare status. 

   

   Conditions at the Clifden sale yard.  It has always been a serious concern that the Clifden saleyard is overcrowded and unsafe. Ponies are crushed into pens and trampled over. Running stock along the paths while the people scramble up on the rails to avoid half wild youngsters is hazardous.  We recommend that these concerns be addressed by the CPBS.

  Thank you for your attention.

F. Mulholland, for the NICPBA

 

 

   July 30th 2011. Addendum.   Despite a reminder some weeks ago that the NICPBA would appreciate an official response to our submission, none has yet been received.

 

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FEEDBACK ON THE FEEDBACK !

 

THE FOLLOWING ARE COMMENTS RECEIVED ON THE COMPLETED SUBMISSION OF

THE DOCUMENT IMMEDIATELY ABOVE.

 

 

 DNA should be done by hair follicle as this is the advancement with the science.

 

BEC - Should not be prejudiced against in any way, shape, or form. It is just a dilute gene. 

 

I personally feel that Homozygous greys should only be permitted to breed to non- grey (hence producing Heterozygous grey and hopefully breed the grey to be the exception not the norm due to melanoma associated with this gene especially with black turned homozygous greys as these do have more problems according to scientific research).

 

Studbook is closed.  All registered within the studbook are purebred so there is absolutely no necessity for Classification of any purebred stock.  The market and the progeny will determine the better lines.

 

HEIGHT strictly adhered to - if they want Performance Horses that is why there is a Sport Section of the studbook for Connemaras to outcross to Thoroughbred. Warmblood etc. to gain height.

 

The smaller end of the breed is urgently required as they are headed into a 'Horse' area as at 148cm at the top end this is a Large Pony anyway and 2 year olds at this height will mature taller. 

 

OR alternatively have different sections like the Welsh do.

 

 If they insist on retaining the Classification process then it needs to be done by assessors who strictly meet the criteria of the Society and are not breeders or have any invested interest in the pass or fail of a pony and not obligatory - like the American system.  The owners receive a copy of each of the assessments at the time of the assessment and NEVER sign off on querying the judgement of such.  Everyone is accountable and the owners pay a lot of money for these assessments and are entitled to be given a true assessment and the documentation relevant to that assessment on the day.  All other assessments I have been through with different societies ie, ASPR Inc - Dilutes etc. they always hand a copy of the individual assessment to the owners on the day and the original goes through to the Society.  There is never any conferring between assessors.  Their assessment is just that as it should be - not one assessor influencing the others which I have been privvy to.

 

Assessors must meet the Society's criteria and not their own - which is why outside people who have no vested interest in a pass or fail should be contracted to do the assessments. 

  J.

 

An excellent presentation of the views and opinions. 

  A.

 

  CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR SUBMISSIONS to the C.P.B.S. Very thorough full of good points. Will they be considered??

   Good Luck, P.

.

    I thought you mentioned some interesting and valid points on your CPBS submission, I was always a wee bit uncomfortable with the inspections being down to personal opinions rather than hard facts. The whole process should be more transparent, and each inspector should not be influencing the other two as they are, constantly conferring, so instead of getting three different opinions you get three similar ones, your idea that they should do their evaluations separately is a good one-even though they seem to 'look after their own' this would make it more difficult for them to do so.

You mentioned the vetting part of the inspection,  I haven't seen any evidence of a vetting being carried out at the mare inspections I have been to, (unless you mean at the colt inspections) the only thing the vet did was measure the ponies, perhaps considering the cost of inspections the vet could do a bit more?  For the long term benefit of the breed unsound mares should not be passed, wind trouble, poor feet, sweet itch etc are going to be inherited.  On the subject of sweet itch, is there a way you can genetically test for it?  It would be great if that was possible.

You are right that the CPBS insisting on being paid in euro is a pain, it takes me ages to get a euro draft in the bank, ( my husband ) got the last one recently for my membership renewal, he had the right hump!

On the subject of overheight ponies, I think they are very sought after and very marketable.  Although they are not technically ponies, the geldings can be more sought after than the in height ponies!

   S.

 

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News from Eastlands Stud and member Dianna Staveley.

New web-site up and running.  www.EastlandsStud.co.uk

 

Regards, Dianna.

 

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New Office for NIHB.

 

The Northern Ireland Horse Board office has relocated from the Ballykeigle Road,

 near Comber, to

The Meadows Equestrian Centre, Lurgan. The postal address is :-

 

Northern Ireland Horse Board,

The Meadows E.C.,

Embankment Road,

Lurgan.

Co.Armagh. BT66 6NE.

 

Telephone 028 3834 3355.

Office hours are from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., on Monday, Tuesday & Thursday.

 

The Centre is signposted off the M1 roundabout at Lurgan ( junction 10 ).

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And to give an idea of just how talented some of our members are, here are images

of some oil paintings created by Sue Johnston.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Connemara stallion 'Silver Park'.

 

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  The Plight of the American Mustang.

 

Fresh news - some of it good news - has been posted on our dedicated page, 

 'Cloud's Page'. 

 A small but significant victory for supporters of the wonderful wild horses of the west.

 

Another great source of information is Carol Walker's site, at http://www.wildhoofbeats.com/blog/ 

 

Carol visits the BLM holding facilities, and is present during roundups in order

 to record and document the circumstances. 

 

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Jane Bruce 07833347470
Irish Horse Welfare Trust N.I. Welfare Representative
British Horse Society (Ireland) Welfare Officer
Donkey Sanctuary AWO Co.Down and Co.Armagh 

REHOMING PLEA FROM THE DONKEY SANCTUARY

 

 

Read the full details on our Health and Welfare page.

 

Don't these two melt your heart !

 

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GALLOON ROLLOVER TENTH IN THE 

CONNEMARA & NEW FOREST SECTION OF THE MACE GROUP

M&M CHAMPIONSHIP AT HOYS 2010 !

 

Congratulations to his breeder, James Naan, and

owner and rider, Katie Bacon !

 

http://events.scg-nl.nl/2010/hoys/results/027-res.htm

 

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Country Comes To Results

(Pictures On the Country Comes To Town Page)

Or View More Photographs Here By Clicking The Below Photograph

 

 

 

 

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New page added to our website - Cloud's Page. August 2010. 

Defending the Wild horses of America. It seems that

the US Government does not yet realise the importance

 of their equines.

 

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NICPBA PONY 3rd AT DUBLIN

CONNEMARA PONY PERFORMANCE !

 

      Amanda Dempsey's pony, Archie, made us all proud on August 4th, when he and his rider, Clare Brown, did a fantastic individual show and only took one fence down, to finish third against some very accomplished ponies in the senior section of the RDS Connemara Pony PerformanceHunter Competition. 

    Bred by John Joe Bolton in Co.Clare, and registered as 'Cloonisle

Cashel Blue',  G2 - 3340,  the 11 y-o by Cloonisle Cashel ex Goodbye My Love ( Glencarraig Finn ) is the love of Amanda's life, and though she rides him in less challenging competition, it is Clare Brown to whom she trusts him whenever the going is tougher. The pair qualified only two weeks previously at Ballygraffan, Comber, and Clare was determined to take Archie to Dublin, as he deserved !   We are delighted to have been able to watch them both on

www.horsebox.tv

 

which for the first time ever was streaming live to the internet from the R.D.S.  To give an idea of the class of pony Archie was up against, the senior section was won by Cashel Bay Prince. Second placed was Irato Varagnac, who just the previous week returned from eventing in France !

 

       RESULTS and some pictures are also available on www.cpbs.ie

 

   8 -15 year old  Connemara Performance Hunter.

 

   Ist.  Cashel Bay Prince, owned by Robbie Fallon. by I Love You Melody ex  Coosheen Pheasant.

 

   2nd. Irato Varagnac. J.Moffat. By Abbeyleix Fionn ex Siobhan.

 

   3rd.  Cloonisle Cashel Blue, G2 -3340. By Cloonisle Cashel ex Goodbye My Love. Owned by Amanda Dempsey, Saintfield. Ridden by Clare Brown.

 

   4th.  Blackwood Fernando  by Ferdia ( Murphy Rebel ) ex Dancing Queen. 

      Alicia Devlin-Byrne.

 

   5th.  Grey Victory. By Glencarrig Finn ex Kilmaley Lady 2nd ex Wings of Victory

 

 

 

  5 - 7 year old Connemara Performance Hunter. Full details  are on the RDS website, at www.rds.ie

 

  1st.   Young Walt,  stallion by Castlestrange Fionn ex Dangan Suzy ( by Cloonisle Cashel )

 

  2nd.  Ciarog

 

  3rd.   Ashfield Troubador.  by Troubador ex Ashfield Blue Moll by Ashfield Sparrow

 

  4th.  Carnalecka Earl by Earl of Newbridge., ex Moygara Ashfield by Ashfield Bobby Sparrow.

 

  5th.  Brock Bay,

 

  6th.  Gloster Boy, by Laerkens Cascade Dawn  ex Ridge Sally. 

 

  Worthy of mention is Drumbad Moondancer, bred by Jim Ferguson of Belleek, who competed in the Connemara Performance Hunter with Gareth Saunderson aboard, having also qualified at Ballygraffan. He is by I Love You Melody ex Rhylin Saoirse. Another one to watch in the future!

 

And in the Connemara Ridden Class 73, two more Northern ponies took the ribbons --

 

    1. Julie Corbett's    Dunally Grey by Linsfort Barney, ex Dunmore Daffodil

    2. D & A Henderson's    Ballyalt Calla Lily, by I Love You Melody, ex Snabo Lily - 

  a very special achievement, since this 4 -y-o mare was only backed very recently.  Known at home as 'Princess', she shows the great conformation of her dam, who is a premium mare, and an exceptional temperament, and her family can be very proud of her ! 

 The image below was taken at Clougher Valley Show on July 28th 2010. 

 

                         

 

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SPONSORING THE NICPBA AT

THE RARE BREEDS SURVIVAL TRUST SHOW

AT GOSFORD PARK, MARKETHILL.

 

 

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'Silken' Sashes at BCPS Northern Show !

 

       Thanks to Helen Troughton for getting in touch to let us know about three of her breeding who achieved 

 four first placings between them at the Northern area BCPS Show on August 1st.  They were Honeyhill Encore,

 a purebred mare by Crusheen Comet, and Silken Gold and Silken Ruler in the part-bred sections, both

 by Song of Freedom. Silken Ruler went on to take the Partbred Championship,

with Silken Gold in Reserve - a triumph for the Portadown stud !

 

To read the full results, the BCPS link is given below. Well done to the Ballinteggart bunch !

    http://www.britishconnemaras.co.uk/fileadmin/user_upload/downloadables/BCPS_Shows/BCPS_

Northern_Show/Northern_Show_2010__-__Results.pdf

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NEW BROOM ?

 

In response to the petition objecting to the Labour Government proposals to introduce a 'tax' in all but name on all horse owners, the present UK government has now posted a reply. Go to the link below to read the full item.

 

 http://www.hmg.gov.uk/epetition-responses/petition-view.aspx?epref=Horse-Rethink

 

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New page on this website entitled 'PONY HISTORIES'.

July 31st, 2010.

 

Contributions from Connemara owners are welcome, with photographs.

 

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CONNECTED HORSEMANSHIP OFFERS NEW CERTIFICATION COURSE.

 

 

   For full details, follow the link provided :-

 

 

 

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Clogher Valley Show

28th July 2010  

 

Connemara Ponies

 

Judged by Mrs.Penny Hodge of Albie Stud, Lockerbie,  Scotland.

 

Clogher Valley Show Photographs 2010 - Copyright Eleanor Mulholland

Includes photographs of Connemaras, M&M, NPS, Championships, Horses etc...

 To request originals email connemara-productions@hotmail.com

 

 

CLICK ABOVE PICTURE TO VIEW CLOGHER VALLEY SHOW PHOTOS

 

  Please e-mail us if you would like an original photo of your pony.

 

connemaraproductions@hotmail.co.uk

 

 

Class. 111 – 1 year old, in hand, registered Connemara Pony Colt, Gelding or Filly.

NPS Area 32 Qualifier.

1^st. Roo Bella – Miss Laura McWeeney

2^nd. Ballylickey Prince – Mr Jim McConnell

3^rd. Slane Princess – Miss Emma Meade

 

Class. 112

1^st. Roo Bella – Miss Laura McWeeney

 

Class. 113 – 2 year old, in hand, registered Connemara Pony Gelding or Filly.

NPS Area 32 Qualifier.

1^st. Lishmar Hazel – Mr John & Maeve Riordan

2^nd. Rockmount Alice – Ms  Breege Flanagan

3^rd. Shannonside Peggy – Mrs Jackie Lindsay

4^th. Addrigoole Annabel - Miss Laura McWeeney

5^th. Beech Hall Star – Mr Wm Truesdale

 

Class. 114 – Qualifier for the Irish Shows Association Connemara 2 & 3 year old

 Filly & Mare of the Future All Ireland Championship. Two to qualify.

1^st. Barna Seabird – Miss Jayne Maxwell

2^nd. Drumkeeragh Molly Malone – Mrs Jill Doogan

3^rd. Crossowen Joy – Mrs Valerie McKie

4^th. Beltaine – Mr Ciaran Cassidy

 

Class. 115 – 3 year old, in hand, registered Connemara Pony Gelding or Filly.

NPS Area 32 Qualifier.

1^st. Lishmar Bambi – John & Maeve Riordan

2^nd. Tawnydun Caramel – Mr James Naan

3^rd. Beech Cailin – Eddy Duffy

4^th. Crossowen Lochlann – Marina & James Wray

 

Class. 116 – Connemara Mare, in foal or with foal at foot, 4, 5 and 6 year old mares.

NPS Area 32 Qualifier. Class sponsored by Mrs P McLaren, Crossowen Stud.

1^st. Ardbear Lily – Mrs Breege Flanagan

2^nd. Island Oak – Mr William McCloskey

3^rd. Newgrange Beauty – Mr Mick McMenamin

 

Class. 117 - Connemara Mare, in foal or with foal at foot, 7 year old over.

NPS Area 32 Qualifier. Class sponsored by Mr.W Boyd, Fivemiletown.

1^st. Crossowen Ciara – Mr Donagh Gallagher

2^nd. Ballydoolagh April Song – Mrs J Hinchliffe

3^rd. Carraig Bán – Mr William McCloskey

 

Class. 118 – Registered Connemara Colt & Filly Foal.

1^st. Ballydoolagh Duke – Mrs J Hinchliffe

2^nd. Estrella – Mrs Breege Flanagan

3^rd. Newgrange Mighty Man – Mr Mick McMenamin

 

 

 

Class. 119 – In Hand Connemara Championship

Champion.               Crossowen Ciara – Mr Donagh Gallagher, Belleek. Co.Fermanagh.

Reserve Champion. Lishmar Hazel – Mr John & Maeve Riordan, Donabate, Co.Dublin.

 

 

 

Class. 120 – Powers Quarry All Ireland Performance Championship Qualifier

1^st. Ceide Rose – Caitlin Brown

2^nd. Craigmount Sparrow – Clare Brown

3^rd. Sweet Molly Malone – Hannah Catterall for  Mrs K Conly

4^th. Glengesh Champagne – Shannon Balfour

 

Class 121.  ICCPS Performance Qualifier. Rider over 16 years.

1^st.  Abbey Storm Fionn --  Sylvia Henry for Mr & Mrs A. Belford

2^nd.  Ballyalt Calla Lily -  for Mr & Mrs D Henderson.

3^rd.  White Star – Mrs Jackie Lindsay

4^th.  Maverick – for Mr Liam O’Connor, Co.Limerick.

 

Class 122.  ICCPS Performance Qualifier. Rider under 16 years.

1^st.   Ceide Rose -  Caitlin Brown for Mrs Nicola Brown

2^nd.  Classic Bawn Headlass – for Mrs Jackie Linsday

3^rd.   Craigmount Sparrow – Clare Brown for Mrs N Brown

4^th.   Turlough Star – Miss Taggart for Mrs J Taggart

5^th.   Glengesh Champagne – Shannon Balfour for Mrs J Balfour

6^th.   Sweet Molly Malone  -  Hannah Catterall for Mrs K Conly

 

Class 123.The Connemara Ridden Pony Gelding All Ireland championship Qualifier.

1^st.   Maverick – for Mr Liam O’Connor.

 

Ridden Championship :-

Ceide Rose ( Jack’s Promise ex Rusheen Leagh ) Caitlin Brown, Downpatrick.

 

Reserve Ridden  Champion :-

Abbey Storm Fionn ( Abbeyfort ex Storm Bird )- Sylvia Henry for Mr & Mrs A Belford.

  

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NIWHA Championship 2010 Show Photographs

Click The Link Below To View Them On THe NICPBA Facebook Group

 

http://www.facebook.com/board.php?uid=2384038928&status=512#!/group.php?gid=120553171310580&ref=ts 

 

 

Castlewellan Show 2010 Photographs

Click Below Picture To View

 

 

 

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Castlewellan 43rd Annual Agricultural Show Results
 Saturday 17th July 2010

 

 

To View Castlewellan Photographs Click Picture Below

 

 

 

Connemara Pony

 

Class 61 – 1,2 & 3 year old colt, gelding or filly.
1st. Loguestown Papaver ( by Murphy Rebel ) – Ivan Adams
2nd. Crossowen Joy ( by C.V.Cashel )– Mrs V. McKie
3rd. Killyan Sally ( by Emoe Berti )– Eloise Rosenfeld

 

Class 62 – Stallion, Mare or Gelding 4 year old & over to be shown in hand.
1st. Newgrange Beauty ( by Fairyhill Tomboy )– Mick McMenamin
2nd. Glenmore Kelly's Owen ( by Abbeyleix Owen )  – Francis & Deirdre O’Reilly
3rd. Corha Delight ( by Castleside JJ ) – Nicola Brown

 

Class 63 – Connemara Foal.
1st. Glean Mor Windy's Molly, filly by Windy's Boy – Francis & Deirdre O’Reilly
2nd. Newgrange Mighty Man, colt by Rhinstroem's Mighty Man – Mick McMenamin

 

Connemara Championship

Champion. Newgrange Beauty – Mick McMenamin
Reserve Champion. Glenmore Kelly's Owen – Francis & Deirdre O’Reilly

 

Mountain & Moorland

 

Class 64 – 1, 2 & 3 year old colt, gelding or filly, mixed M & M, in hand. 
1st. Glenlough Persuasion – Glenlough Stud. Shetland.
2nd. Loguestown Papaver – Ivan Adams.  Connemara.
3rd. 694 – Chestnut Shetland, not catalogued.

 

Class 65 – 4 year old & over, mixed M & M, in hand.
1st. Glenmore Kelly's Owen – Francis & Deirdre O’Reilly.   Grey Connemara mare.
2nd. Hixton Hazelnut – Diane Gordon. Bay Dartmoor mare. 
3rd. Beltoy Rising Pride – Mrs M. McDonald. Black Shetland stallion.
4th. Minster of Mowbray – Catherine Lyttle. Shetland.
5th. Magheradartin Beeswax - David Lyttle. Dun Shetland Stallion.

 

 

Mountain & Moorland In Hand Championship.

Champion. Glenmore Kelly's Owen – Francis & Deirdre O’Reilly.  Connemara.
Reserve Champion - Hixton Hazelnut – Diane Gordon.  Dartmoor.

 

Class 66 – Mountain & Moorland Lead Rein
1st. Llafar Barthez – Nicola Roscoe
2nd. Saethydd Coco – Miss Claire Dobbin
3rd. Toffee – Truesdale
4th. Clothie Night Hajcosay - Glenlough Stud
5th. Beltoy Remus – A D Wheeler
6th. HRE Hobbit – Trudy Reid
7th. Mountain Gemma – Paul McAulfield

 

Class 67 – Mountain & Moorland First Ridden
1st. Dryknowl Victor Plum – Megan Dummigan
2nd. Ballyloughan Lady Lindsay- Mrs J Bingham
3rd. Llafar Barthez – Nicola Roscoe
4th. Reenroe Murrymint – Alex Hughes
5th. Lauren Gordon-  grey Welsh section A.

 

Mountain & Moorland Ridden Championship

Champion. Dryknowl Victor Plum – Megan Dummigan
Reserve Champion. Llafar Barthez – Nicola Roscoe

 

Class 68 – Open Mountain & Moorland Ridden Small Breeds
1st. Hixton Hazelnut – Lauren Gordon
2nd. Hilin Sky Rocket – Miss A Steele
3rd. Signwood Goldfinch – Valerie Dumigan
4th. Huttons Ambo Mayflower – Mrs M McDonald
5th. Hennen Logic – Mrs A McClenaghan

 

Class 69 – Open Mountain & Moorland Ridden Large Breeds, which was dominated by the Connemara.
1st. Clogher Valley Kestrel ( by Innellan Kestrel ) – Mrs V. McKie
2nd. Ceide Rose ( by Jack's Promise ) – Nicola Brown, ridden by Caitlin Brown.
3rd. Tydfill Red Marvel – Sara Morrow ( Welsh Cob )
4th. Aberpennar Lilli Bou - Deborah Cherry ( Welsh Cob ) 
5th. Springlawn Boy ( by Glove's Misty Owen ) – Helen Troughton, ridden by Iona Pirie. 
6th. Abbeydale Christy ( by Dangan Boy ) – Clare McIIveen
7th. Heath of Cashel ( by Cloonisle Cashel ) – Wm. Truesdale, ridden by Euan McCracken.

8th. Abbey Storm Fionn ( by Abbeyfort ) – Carol Belford

 

Open Mountain & Moorland Ridden Championship

Champion. Hixton Hazelnut – Lauren Gordon
Reserve Champion. Clogher Valley Kestrel – Mrs V. McKie

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  New CPBS Database Facility

July 6th 2010 

 

The CPBS has recently added another facility to their database at www.connemara-pony.com

 

whereby it is possible to search for details of stallions by county of residence.  Colts passed this spring have yet to be added, and some of the information is outdated ( stallions which are dead or moved to another stud, for example ), so it is advisable to contact the stallion keepers before travelling to view or cover. 

We will be checking details also, and posting photos etc. on our stallion page once the new information is confirmed regarding those stallions standing at public stud. It would be appreciated if anyone aquiring a stallion would get in touch with the NICPBA.

 

NICPBA Committee.

Thankyou. 

 

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NICPBA Champion Of Champions Competition 2011

 

The Northern Ireland Connemara Pony Breeders Association wishes to inform its members that for the showing season of 2010 we will once again be running the ‘Champion of Champions’ league.  The competition is designed to encourage NICPBA members to exhibit their ponies in the in-hand and ridden classes at the many local shows in N.Ireland and in the Border counties.

 

Competition Rules

 

1                   Pony owners must be members of NICPBA for 2011.

2                  Owners must have the ponies registered in their own name.

3                  Owners may exhibit as many ponies as they wish, but each pony will have a separate entry.

4                  All ponies must be registered with CPBS or daughter society e.g BCPS.

5                  Showing cards are available from the NICPBA secretary for each entry, and it is the responsibility of the exhibitor to have the card signed by the judge, show secretary or a committee member of NICPBA.

6                  Completed cards must be forwarded to the NICPBA secretary at the end of the year.

7                   A pony must compete at a minimum of 3 shows to be eligible to enter the competition.

8                  The best results from a maximum of 6 shows will be used to calculate the pony's points for the competition.

 

Points system

 

1        1^st in class                                       10 points

2       2^nd in class                                       8 points

3       3^rd in class                                        6 points

4       4^th in class                                        4 points

5        5^th in class                                       2 points

6       6^th in class                                        1 point

 

Additional points

 

1       Champion Connemara Pony                                                 6 points

2       Champion ridden Connemara Pony                                      6 points

3       Reserve Champion Connemara Pony                                   4 points

4       Reserve Champion ridden Connemara Pony                        4 points

5       Junior Champion Connemara Pony                                      4 points

6       Supreme Champion of Show                                                10 points

7       Reserve Supreme Champion                                                 6 points

8       2^nd Reserve Supreme Champion                                           4 points

 

We have a Champion Connemara Pony in each of the following classes

 

In-hand Champion

 

1                    Colt or filly foal

2                   1  year old colt, gelding or filly.

3                   2 or 3 year old colt, gelding or filly

4                   Mare or gelding 4 year old or over.

5                   Partbred Connemara Pony ( Sire or dam must be CPBS registered ).

 

If we have enough entries these classes may be divided again

 

Ridden Champion

 

1                    Young rider up to 16 years old

2                   Rider 16 to 18 years old

3                   Adult ridden class

 

The overall Champion of Champions will be the pony which accumulates the highest points from their best 6 shows.  

 

Each class Champion will receive a special rosette.

 

The Champion of Champions will receive a embroidered rug and sash.

  

To accommodate competitors from the various areas in the jurisdiction, we have not made a list of designated shows, but points can be accumulated from shows which have the following classes either ridden or in-hand :-

 

Connemara Classes

 

Mountain and Moorland Classes

 

Connemara  Working Hunter Classes

 

M & M Working Hunter Classes.

 

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EXPERIENCED BAREFOOT TRIMMER

 

NICK HILL OF  CLOVER ROSE EQUINE IS AVAILABLE

FOR A LIMITED NUMBER OF TRIMS / CONSULTATIONS

 

Visit  www.cloverroseequine.co.uk

 

Contact Laura Webster at  laura@littlegreenangels.com  to find out more, and to arrange a visit.

Nick will try to come at a date to suit as many as possible.

  

 

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 Loss Of Moyan's Little Monkey

 

We are sorry to report the loss, on June 2nd, 2010 of the stallion, Moyan's Little Monkey, who was owned by our member Paddy Traynor. By Corbally Star out of an Ormond Oliver mare, he was a very athletic little horse, scoring high in the CPBS performance test as a two year old - I remember hearing how he could barely be kept in the yard, hence his name !  He went on to breed many jumping ponies. Our sympathies to Paddy and the family.

 

 

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SPONSORSHIP FOR IRISH HORSE WELFARE TRUST

 

The Irish Horse Welfare Trust rehomes, rehabilitates,  and rescues horses and ponies. In particular they specialise in re-training ex-racehorses and finding suitable homes for them. Part of the work also entails investigating welfare complaints and promoting equine education and awareness. 
You can rest assured that the money will be put to good use amongst equines in need.
 
Many thanks,
Jane Bruce ( IHWT ).

 

Learn more about the IHWT, and see contact details at www.ihwt.ie

 

The Committee of the NICPBA voted unanimously to make a donation, on behalf of it's membership, to the work of the IHWT in response to Jane's request for sponsorship for her run in the Flora Ladies Dublin Marathon in June 2010.

 

 

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Ecclesville Colt Inspection 2010.

 

Some pictures from the inspection.

Including images courtesy of James Naan and Ernie Somerville.

 

 

Sylvia Henry and her colt.

 

 

Vet Philip McManus microchips a colt by Jack's Promise.

 

 

Gabriel Murphy brought his colt all the way from Co.Mayo.

 

 

Bay colt,  Donegreagh Cuach na Scamaill,  by Silver Cloud out of an Ard Zachary dam.

 

Colt belonging to Conal Watters of Donegal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sean Bourke's colt, Rathlacken Cascade, by Laerkens Cascade Dawn

 ex Prospect Cloud. This colt won the colt foal section at The Country Comes to Town in 2007.

 

John McKay of Cushendun.

 

Midas Touch, 4 y-o colt by Coral Prince ex Whitegate Rover ( by Grey Dawn ).

 

Sylvia Henry, Comber.

 

Ernie Somerville, Belleek.

 

Colt by Gwennic de Goariva.

 

 

John McKay with his colt.

 

 

 

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NICPBA BADGE.

 

The Association badges are available for all members. Designed by Eleanor Mulholland and Euan McCracken, the badge depicts the association logo of a Connemara pony with a shamrock on it's rump, on a dark blue background,and surrounded by the association name in gold lettering on burgundy. The image shown is in close -up.

 

 

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Renowned Sire Lost

Cocum Camelot, son of Thunderbolt, was put down before Christmas time 2009.

He was in his 25th year, and suffering from Cushings syndrome. Owned by Eileen and Tommy Simpson, who breed Sydserff Connemara Ponies, he lately stood with the Hodges at their Albie Stud in Scotland. Out of the outstanding mare, Cocum Prima Donna, the little chestnut  was a premium stallion, and has 5 sons standing at stud. They are Pilgrims Excalibur, Sydserff Thunderstorm, Sydserff Avalon, Fly the Last Flute and Sydserff Gallant Knight. Another stallion son was Lintavon Tempest. His most famous offspring is Sydserff Lord of the Dance, who has numerous championships and supreme championships to his name. Our sincere sympathies to all who loved and cared for Camelot. http://www.albiestud.co.uk/album.php

 

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Help Tracing Ponies

Lisnamann Full Force is a Partbred Connemara by Connemara Stallion Spring Con and out of Maid Of Lisnamann.  We have a request from the present owner asking if anyone can help trace the breeding of the mare Maid Of Lisnamann or has any information which may lead to discovering the mares breeding.

Help would be greatly appreciated.

Contact: connemara-productions@hotmail.com

 

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First Foal Of 2010 ? Let Us Know When Yours Arrive !

 

 

 

Dawn of Rickamore  and her filly foal by Midas Touch, foaled during the early hours of Tuesday March 2nd, and is pictured here only hours old.  Dawn was bred by Mr.Gerry O'Reilly of New Ross, Co.Wexford, out of his good Westside Mirah mare, Caperann Cailín.  The 5 y-o Dawn is by Carraig Thunder, and is a member of the Donegreagh Herd. 

 

 

 

 

Donegreagh Ceilidh.

 
  

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CHECK OUT OUR NEW POSTS ON THE HEALTH AND WELFARE PAGE !

 

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All meetings or events organised or held by the N.I. Connemara Pony Breeders Association will always be advertised as such.

 

Thank You

N.I.C.P.B.A

 

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Photographs

 

Older photographs have been removed due to launch of the new NICPBA website (www.nicpba.co.uk) as it was not possible to move them from the old website (www.connemaraponybreeders-nicpba.co.uk) at the time, however most photographs where archived and are still available on request and most will be reposted.

PLEASE NOTE: Photographs published on this website are the property of the original owner and no photograph on this site may be used or reproduced in any form without prior permission from the original owner. Any violation of the copyright laws will not be tolerated.

 

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Make Life Easier For Your Vet & You

 

"Veterinarians work under a great handicap when handling horses--almost everything the veterinarian does to a horse is either frightening or painful," began Robert Miller, DVM. However, that doesn't mean there's no way for a veterinarian to work comfortably with a horse, he says. With a bit of patience, time, and understanding of the horse's flighty nature, veterinarians and horse owners can easily train a horse to work with them rather than against them.

Miller discussed equine psychology and its application to veterinary practice at the 2009 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention held Dec. 5-9 in Las Vegas, Nev. Beginning with his early equine experiences, Miller discussed the observations and training methods that have led him to become an authority on equine behavior, training, and imprinting.  

        

Read the full article on: http://www.thehorse.com/ViewArticle.aspx?ID=15855

 

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IPS National M&M 2009 Results

 

Congratulations to Euan McCracken & Annaghdown Cloonahinch Moonlight (Jake) who were placed 2nd in the IPS National M&M points for 2009 and got a beautiful rosette at the IPS National Awards dinner in Athlone in January 2010.  Jake was sold to Wiltshire early in the winter, and is having a great time with his new people ! Having spent a while last autumn searching for a taller pony to move on to, a Currachmore Cashel gelding turned up, and the new team have been training for working hunter classes.  Seen below competing recently at Connell Hill E.C. in Randalstown are Euan with his new pony, Harry. They are aiming for the 153 W.H. at Balmoral in May, and we wish them the very best of luck !

 

           

 

 

    Kindly supplied by proud Mum, Valerie, is the photo below, showing Euan at the IPS Awards Night where he won:

 

      M&M Working Hunter Pony National Award

      Novice 153cm Working Hunter Pony National Award

      M&M Ridden National Award

 

      IPS Ulster Silver League 2008 - 1st Novice M&M Ridden

      3rd M&M Working Hunter Pony

 

          

 

   

 

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Tragic Loss Of In-foal Mare Due To Yew Poisoning

12th Feb 2010

 

When bringing a haylage bale to his ponies earlier this week, one of our members discovered that his in-foal mare was not just basking in the sun, but, in fact, had died.  Since the ponies are seen daily, and had shown no signs of ill health, the owner called out his vet in order to find out what could possibly have happened. Veterinary analysis of blood samples revealed that yew tree poisoning was the cause of death.  The toxin from Taxus baccata ( the Irish Yew ) is called taxin, and is so potent it kills very rapidly - within 4 to 6 hours, according to the vet.  Animals have been found dead with the distinctive dark green leaves still in their mouths. The seeds and wood are also toxic.  Knowing that no such tree bordered the field, the owner, upon searching, then discovered that a neighbouring home owner had thrown cuttings over the fence to 'give the ponies a bit of greenery'.  With two other mares and two young fillies in the field, there could have been an even greater disaster.  That the neighbour was not aware of the extreme toxicity of yew is hard to fathom - any gardener should know it.  Yew is just as poisonous to humans as to other animals. 

We are advising anyone with ponies to make sure any neighbours are well warned not to throw cuttings of any kind to their ponies. It is the only way to prevent accidental poisoning, or even colic ( caused by grass cuttings ) by well meaning but ill-informed neighbours.  For ponies who graze roadside fields, the dangers from fly-tipping are frightening.

 

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Make Your Own 'Parelli' Halter  

Instructions at http://www.all-natural-horse-care.com/natural-horsemanship-halter.html  Link supplied by Lesley Harvey.

   

         

 

                   

 

                                           

 

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Registered Connemara Pony Stallions

 At Stud In Northern Ireland

 

For anyone standing Connemara Stallions in Northern Ireland for the season please send us any updates such as change of contact details, change of address or change in stallion grade to finola.mulholland@btopenworld.com

Any updated information for the forthcoming eason would be much appreciated.

 

Please note we also can post photos

• £20 for Non Members
• Free For Members for the first stallion, and at £10 per additional stallion.

   

  Basic Information about Stallions will be placed on the website free of charge for the benefit of mare owners.

   

  Membership for the NICPBA is only £15 per annum! 

  

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Barefoot Trimming Trainer's Visit to Northern Ireland. 

 

With more enlightenment nowadays concerning the natural keeping and training systems for equines, there was a good turnout at the meeting organised by local horse owner, Laura Webster, at whose invitation barefoot practitioner and field instructor from the U.S. based Association for the Advancement of Natural Horsecare Practices ( A.A.N.H.C.P. ), Nick Hill, came to speak on the evening of Tuesday, February 2nd.   Nick trained with the association's founder, acclaimed barefoot trimmer, Jaime Jackson, and is himself based in Scotland.  You are invited to visit his website  at www.cloverroseequine.co.uk . His principal engagement was a seminar  at the Temple Golf and Country Club, Boardmills ( near Lisburn ) , and all profits from the admission were donated to the excellent cause of The Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary, which is currently experiencing an unprecedented demand on it's resources.   The following two days were taken up by his attending ponies and horses around the country, when he enthusiastically imparted advice and demonstrated his skills.  He will be back again through the year, and interest has already been expressed by some owners wishing to learn the skill of barefoot trimming themselves, and Nick is willing to train a group on a regular basis. Anyone wishing to register their interest in such training should contact Laura on 077  9654 0475.  

 

       

 

Above is Nick Hill, explaining aspects of his craft to NICPBA member, Lesley Harvey, whose daughter Jenny recently qualified as a barefoot trimmer.

 

More information on the holistic appoach to horse-keeping and the natural method of hoofcare can be found on    www.jaimejackson.com and www.hoofrehab.com , the site of fellow barefoot specialist, Pete Ramey. The philosophy behind natural horsecare systems is to keep domesticated horses in as near as possible the conditions which the horses themselves would choose if they were living in the wild. That  means freedom to move over a variety of country, to eat a natural ( grass or hay based ) diet, to have others of their own kind for company, and therefore achieve all the advantages of physical and mental health which a wild life would offer.  A major part of this is the relation of structure to function in the horse's foot. Studies conducted in the wild laid the foundation for the barefoot method - with trimming to attain the shape and structure of the 'wild horse model' or mustang foot.  Left unshod, the foot is able to flex and function as evolution has fashioned it in the millions of years before man first nailed iron upon it.  It only makes sense that something so well designed for species survival is better not interfered with any more than it must be. Since, however, domestic horses  are not free to choose to move as far and wide as wild stock, the barefoot trimming method effectively mimics the wear which the foot ought to receive in nature, thus resulting in the best possible foot .

 

 

 

Above are the hind feet of the bay mare shown in the first picture. The nearer hoof has been trimmed by Nick to the 'wild horse' model, and the middle one is yet to be trimmed. The white hoof belongs to the colt foal.  Despite appearances, the actual amount of hoof removed was minimal - the method is completely non-invasive - but emphasis is on balancing the foot and achieving the correct angle of growth ( as is evident just below the coronary band ) and the correct height of the heel, which should be low. All crumbling tissue is removed, ( as it would be naturally worn away if the horse were travelling over varied country ), thus allowing the hoof to flex freely and be the dynamic organ it is meant to be,  functioning properly, and is not just like a block of solid wood on the end of a leg !

 

For a chance to see the contrast between shod and unshod hooves on the horse as it performs, a visit to the website below is highly recommended. Links are provided to video clips which run simultaneously, clearly demonstrating the concussion absorbed by the foot in it's natural state, whereas the shod foot jars the entire leg. 

 

Barefoot horses at Performance Barefoot  

Performance Barefoot takes horses through the process of hoof rehabilitation, removing shoes, transitioning hooves and creating barefoot performance horses ...
www.performancebarefoot.co.uk/

 

 See also http://www.all-natural-horse-care.com/toe-rocker.html

 

The photos below show a laminitic hoof before and, in the bottom picture, after being trimmed by Nick on Feb. 3rd in the method pioneered by Jaime Jackson. The improvement in the form of the foot gives the owner real hope that the hoof can, in time, be returned to normal.  The mare was a little tender for a few days, due to the old material being taken off the sole, but was soon going much better again. As her comfort in movement increases, the healing should increase in pace. On the base of the foot, the sole, frog and separated white line are to be scrubbed daily with a wirebrush and vinegar, to cleanse and gently disinfect the foot.

 

   

 

   

 

For further information, another site which will be of interest is www.epauk.org - useful links will take you to the Equine Podiatry Association's websites and forum.

  

 

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Reading Horse Forehead Swirls

 

Thanks to Tandragee member, Liam Flannigan, for letting us know about the video on Youtube featuring Chris Irwin,

 horse trainer, on the subject of whorls on a horse's head and observations on their relevance to a horse's ability to learn. 

Afterwards, have a look at your own pony and see what you think.

        

 

 

 

 

                     

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NICPBA Joins The Equine Council

Dec 2009.

 

Further to the meeting of the NICPBA committee with representatives of the Equine

 Council for N.Ireland on December 9th, we are delighted to announce that our group has agreed to become a participating member of the E.C.N.I. 

Mr.Tony Bell, who will be familiar to many through his work with the National Pony Society, represents the pony groups on the council. He was accompanied by Christine Casey, whose experience as regional chairperson on the B.H.S. and secretarial and business skills are proving invaluable to the provincial organisation, which  was constituted on March 10th, 2008.  Set up a a charitable company, the E.C.N.I.  aims to give a voice via it's association with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Developement ( DARD ) to all sectors of the equine world and ancilliary industries. The following extract from the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the E.C.N.I.  outlines the principal purpose of the organisation.

 

The Company ( i.e. the Equine Council for Northern Ireland ) is established to promote any charitable purpose for the benefit

of the Equine Sport and Industry in Northern Ireland.  It will endeavour to promote the advancement of education the improvement of quality and standards in breeding, performance, health and welfare in equines.

It will promote improvement in standards of achievement (within the sport and industry) and will encourage increased participation, promotion co-operation, and economic awareness within the Equine Sport and Industry.

 

We look forward to leaning more in the very near future, and introducing the E.C.N.I. to our membership.

 

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Rollover Heading For The Jackpot

November 11th, 2009

 

Galloon Rollover is featured in the leading U.K. equestrian magazine, Horse & Hound, this week. His breeder, James Naan, still keeps in touch with the bay colt's owner, Katie Bacon, and 'Barney' has been doing very well - most recently in the Championships of the M&M Heritage section of the British Show Pony Society. 

 

The photographs shown here are strictly protected by copyright. We are grateful to Katie for allowing their publication on this website. The photographer is Equinational (Colin Nicolas Photography)

 

 

       

 

                         

 
Katie writes " This year he ( Galloon Rollover ) has won 11 times out of 13 classes entered,  and has had two seconds. Also 5 Championships and 1 Reserve Championship.
3 wins from 3 at BSPS Heritage Championship (Novice, Restricted and Open Ridden)
Qualified Ponies UK Winter Champs (Confined Novice and Open) N.P.S Spring Festival (Novice and Open) and B.S.P.S Winter Champs (Novice, Restricted and Open)".  A record of which to be justly proud ! 

Katie also has a younger full brother to Barney, who, it is hoped, will follow in the elder's hoof-prints ! Both are by Murphy's Oscar

out of Galloon Wind of Change ( by Moy Hazy Cove ).             

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