DUNGARVAN Agricultural Show played host to the latest Tattersalls Ireland Treo Eile Showing Pathway Series qualifier, with Claire Gilna and Dick Frisby presiding as judges. A bumper entry of 11 horses across both sections made for two competitive classes.

In the novice section, cheers could be heard around the showground when Present Appeal and Chloe Draper were pulled in as winners. Although it was the combination’s first time in the show ring, they had three point-to-point runs together earlier this year. Their last run came in May and, after a few weeks at grass, the five-year-old Sholokov gelding was brought back into work. “I didn’t know what to expect, but he’s such a gent,” commented a delighted Draper. “I’ve had to borrow all the gear from everyone, I’ve a great support crew!”

Training

Taking second place and also securing their spot in the final were Ailish Lambe and Elusive Prince. Another horse recently retired from the track, he last raced in April of this year when in training with James William Hannon.

The open section saw Creggs Cross and Claire Connors win their second qualifier of the year. The seven-year-old by Ocovango ran three times under Rules, with his last appearance coming in a maiden hurdle in June 2023. “He only started his showing career in May of last year and won on his first outing,” commented Connors. “He had a small injury, which put him out for the remainder of last season, but he’s had a great year so far this year.”

Mirroring their results at Midleton Show earlier in the year, second place went to Salseros and Chloe Ahern. The 11-year-old gelding was owned and trained by Ahern’s father, Garrett. “He’s a real family horse as my dad trained him, my brother rode his first point-to-point winner on him and now I’m having a ball on him in the show ring!”

The next qualifier in the series takes place at Nugentstown Show this weekend.