HSI is currently enlisting the assistance of several marketing specialists within the equestrian sector, but is seeking Government funding to assist in promoting the industry further.

The lack of a marketing department has been a weakness of the governing body and this move to address the area is certainly welcome. Irish horses and riders have enjoyed great success in recent years and there is a need to capitalise on these results.

Although HSI has worked within its budget constraints, Government support will be instrumental in driving the marketing of the equestrian industry forward. The horse racing industry has benefited from Irish Thoroughbred Marketing and a similar initiative is needed for the sport horse sector.

A strategic plan is also being developed between HSI, Teagasc and the RDS, with another meeting having taken place last week between representatives of those bodies and Minister Coveney. They are working on an approach to deliver an economic return for the industry, something that the Minister is said to be keen to support.

The united approach appears to be something that appeals to Minister Coveney and will help eliminate the perception that the sport horse industry is fragmented. Previous divisions and public fractions have damaged the industry somewhat and the Minister is keen to see the industry unite and progress.

ELITE SALE

Plans by the Connemara Pony Elite Sales Group (CPESG) to host an elite sale of performance Connemara ponies this year are very interesting. The model has been very successful in eventing and is going to be developed further by Goresbridge Horse Sales for an elite show jumping sale this year.

Connemara ponies are very sought-after around Europe and a sale of this nature has the potential to attract strong foreign interest and investment.

THIS WEEK

In this week’s paper, David O’Brien talks about his career since leaving the army and his hopes to grow his new business. He discusses his promising string of horses and the facilities he has developed at his Athlone base.

In her column, Aoife Clark talks about an initiative that could increase prize money and awareness of eventing, along with creating additional revenue for riders and trainers.

saschageraghty@theirishfield.ie