ADDING their names to an illustrious list of past winners, Patrick Byrne and Whispering Lux were crowned the Michael Leonard young horse champions on Sunday evening.

Sitting midway on the flat, but delivering one of only three show jumping clears, the Lux Z gelding forged ahead to eventually record the only double clear round. Owned by Henry Phipps and bred by Niall O’Donovan, he was initially produced by Tina Brown before Byrne took over the ride. “I knew Henry wanted to buy into another one (he also owns Anchorman) so I suggested he invest in this one,” explained Byrne. “He was little green in the country, and spooky through the gaps, but he’s a very good jumper, and I just had to keep him in a rhythm.”

In terms of consistency, Patrick Wall’s John A was a worthy runner up. Ridden as usual by Michael McNally, the John Anthony Coogan-bred grey by Ballydaniel Silver Fox added just time faults to his first phase score. “He was a bit strong so I had to set him up a bit,” said McNally. “I think he has plenty of ability.” Coogan, together with the owning Wall family, is well represented by his broodmare Union Connaught Cruz (Cruising) who is also responsible for Bridie, who was placed third in the EI 90 national championships recently.

The Byrne family’s celebrations were boosted further when Maria slotted into third with the home-bred grey mare BGS Ocean Mist. Denied the winning spot after tipping the first fence, the traditionally bred mare is by Patrick’s jumping stallion BGS Ocean View out of a thoroughbred dam.

The cross-country rode well for these youngsters, although time faults in both jumping phases proved significant. All jumped around happily in the country apart from Kate Keenan (Ardkyle J’Taime) who was unlucky to tip up at the Barrels (6) and Storm O’Connor, who going well until Hacketts Cross took a green dislike to the Castle water.

Bowing out

TWO well-known and popular figures to bow out at Ballindenisk were commentator Tom Busteed, together with British CCI3* Ground Jury member Les Smith.

Making his surprise announcement, the Cork-based Busteed is standing down after nearly 30 years behind the microphone. His immediately recognisable, lively and informative commentary has entertained at venues such as Blarney, Ballindenisk, Tattersalls and Punchestown, and he will be hugely missed.

“I’ve thought all year about it and had to make a decision, I’ve a busy yard at home, as well as my 10-year-old son Josh who is now very keen and increasingly active in the equestrian world. You can’t do everything, and I want to give him the time.”

Also calling time, and at the same venue that he began his international career back in 1991, is Northumberland Ground Jury member Les Smith. A familiar figure at Ballindenisk, he has since been at the helm of some of the world’s most prominent events, including the four-star fixtures at Burghley and at Pau. His retirement comes in line with the FEI age rules, although he disclosed these are to be reviewed again next month. “I’ve judged in 14 different countries and it’s been terrific,“ he commented. “I’ve had a lot of fun, I’ve been to places I would never have dreamed of visiting and met some fabulous people.”

History relived

TAKING a new initiative, Kate Fell produced a fresh look programme for the event. Listing the runners and riders on a separate sheet, the programme was devoted to the long history of Ballindenisk, together with a sample list of results from their first international back in 1977.

Yogi Breisner was among the most recognisable names, while others included the late David Foster, Helen Cantillon, Lord Patrick Connolly-Carew, Brendan Corscadden and the evergreen Ann O’Grady (Leonard).

Supporters

IT was good to see Tom and Theresa McCarthy (parents of WEG hero Padraig) supporting their granddaughter Romy, and also Mary and David King who were cheering on daughter Emily. It was the David’s birthday, and in recognition, he was given a tuneful rendition by commentator Tom Busteed.

Family favourite

JIM Newsam had already described his popular CCI3* winner Magennis as part of the family, and indeed demonstrating that, many will have spotted his wife Emma competing him in the CIC* at Millstreet last month. “We could be fighting over the ride,” said Newsam.