AN exciting new research project, aimed at tracing the key genetic influences in the Traditional Irish Horse, was officially announced at this week’s Dublin Horse Show.

The Traditional Irish Horse Association (TIHA) along with Horse Sport Ireland Director of Breeding, Alison Corbally, and Prof. Emmeline Hill, Chief Science Officer for Plusvital, came together at the world famous Show to announce Professor Hill’s ongoing research into the genetic ancestry of the Traditional Irish Horse.

Seamus Davis of the TIHA, who initiated this project in 2014, outlined the 2,000-year history of the Traditional Irish Horse against a backdrop showcasing the diversity of the Traditional Irish Horse, including the famous five-star Ardcolum Duke (ISH)(TIH), bred by Joe Flynn of Co Roscommon.

The Gypsy Duke stallion has been ridden to multiple Grand Prix wins by Cork international show jumper Billy Twomey.

“Plusvital is delighted to have established a collaboration with the TIHA and Horse Sport Ireland to investigate the genetic ancestry of the Traditional Irish Horse and compare it with the bloodlines of Irish Sport Horses with foreign blood and other breeds.

“Modern DNA technologies now allow us to determine the ancestral influences at a DNA level, which may be useful in situations where pedigree is not always available,” said Prof Hill.

Using DNA from almost 150 horses from eight breeds to look for genetic similarities and differences, the research found five principal genetic lineages in the Irish Sport Horse: Thoroughbred, Connemara Pony, Irish Draught, Warmblood and a newly discovered Irish Hunter lineage.

“Our preliminary data indicates that the TIH has almost negligible Warmblood ancestry compared to other Irish Sport Horses and is comprised mostly of what appears to represent ancestral Irish Hunter genetics. The ancestral genetics of the Irish Hunter are likely to be the key genetic influence in the TIH and may comprise a unique genetic signature.”

DEEPER UNDERSTANDING

Commenting on the research project, a spokesperson for the TIHA, Chris Ryan, said: “Firstly the TIHA would like to take the opportunity to thank Prof. Hill (Plusvital) and Horse Sport Ireland’s breeding department for their support and collaboration. We expect the ongoing scientific research and findings when finalised will lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of Traditional Irish Horse genetics.

“Going forward it is all about improving the breed and their performance using data and genetics of merit alongside the shared sentiment for breeding and conserving the Traditional Irish Horse.”

Overall, it has been an exciting and informative year for the TIHA.

Ryan added: “As an Association, we have had some fantastic outcomes this year and now genetic science will become a crucial part of the foundation on which to build. We look forward to seeing the final results of this project in the coming months.”

Prof. Hill’s genetic research project is very timely as the Association has for many years advocated conserving the remaining top quality genetics of the TIH mare population.

Coupled with a higher standard of breeding and production, it is the intention of the TIHA to increase the market value of traditional Irish stock for the home and export markets by working with stakeholders and breeders.