THE 23rd annual Half Bred Horse Breeders Society Three-Year-Old Loose Jumping Championship Final was held at Connell Hill Equestrian Centre last Wednesday.

Sincere thanks goes to Ian Fearon who judged the final and was impressed by the standard of the competing three-year-olds. The top three especially showed good technique and scope.

The winner, in particular, for such a big horse, was very light on foot, showing great scope, technique and care. Ian Fearon stated that he has judged this competition a few times over the years and thinks it is a great incentive for Northern breeders to bring their three-year-olds out for experience and a chance to see their potential. He also noted that it was great to see such good jumping bloodlines.

Thanks was also paid to the judges of the qualifying rounds, Gabriel Tunney, Joanne Jarden and Gareth Clingan, all of whom generously gave their time. Tori O’Connor Photography covered the event and qualifiers while Raymond Brady once again helped out with an excellent and informative commentary.

Sponsors Drumhowen Stud provided rugs for the winning horses while Bluegrass Horse Feeds donated vouchers and Padraig and Vincent Howley donated a nomination to the popular stallion Sligo Candy Boy, which was won by David Finlay.

Finally, thanks to the committee members and volunteers without whom the event could not run.

Final results at

Connell Hill:

1. Annette McCracken’s Carrickview Aerendi by I’m Special De Muse out of Carrickview Calypso by Sunny Boy

2. Brian Hutchinson’s SVS Zarocco by Zirocco Blue Vdl out of SVS Zar a by Je T’Aime Flamenco

3. Megan McGrory’s Bambi by Beach Ball out of Coevers Diamond Girl by Coevers Diamond Boy

4. Brian Hutchinson’s SVS Attraction by Air Jordan Z out of P Zermie by Palfreiner

5. Charlie Smiley’s Lough Mourne Cruise Control by Cornets Stern out of Oldtown Sally K by Cruising

6. Judith Sossick’s Loughview Diamond Orla by Orestus out of Loughview Diamond Lucy by Jack of Diamonds