THERE was a strong international turnout at the Moynalty Steam Threshing’s 50th anniversary, with a global farrier competition seeing 50 competitors from the USA, Sweden, England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland going head to head.

The Irish Field supported one of a number of classes taking place at the Co Meath event earlier this month. A healthy-sized crowd were able to watch farriers make and fit handmade horseshoes, nailing and finishing all while under the pressure of a ticking clock.

“We got fantastic feedback from the public on the day, many of whom had never seen horseshoes being made or even horses being shod before this event,” said John McAteer, master farrier and competition organiser.

“It would be fantastic if somewhere in that crowd was a young teen who might consider farriery as a trade, as a result of being there to see our competition.

“Farrier competitions are very important and, while there can only be one winner, they offer farriers a chance to come together and display their skills in front of one another, allowing each farrier to learn and witness different techniques which will ultimately benefit the horses in their care as they strive for success to one day be called show champion.”

This year’s Yukon Forge, GE Tool and Peli Products Master Show Champion was John Benfield, while Paul Coady was awarded the Ariat Apprentice Show Champion.