Harley v/d Bisschop to Bertram Allen

BERTRAM Allen has a new star in his German stable after welcoming the five-star Grand Prix winner Harley v/d Bisschop to his string this week. Formally ridden by Belgium’s Nicola Philippaerts, the 11-year-old gelding was part of the winning Belgium team at the FEI Nations Cup final in Barcelona two weeks ago when jumping double clear.

Reported strangles outbreak

THERE is a reported outbreak of strangles in the area of Pilltown, Co Kilkenny, according to Beline Estate Equestrian, who announced on their Facebook page this week that they would be closing their facility to prevent their livestock becoming infected.

The disease is a high contagious infection of the upper respiratory tract cause by the bacteria Streptococcus equi subspecies equi.

Performance psychology event

JOIN performance coach Poppy Blandford on November 1st at the Killashee Hotel, Naas, for an evening dedicated to mastering the psychology of riding at home and at competition. Poppy will share mental strategies from the top riders as well as tips and tricks you can implement straight into your own riding. Tickets sold online at poppyblandford.com. All levels and disciplines welcome!

Cross-country day

CROSSOGUE Equestrian are holding their cross-country competition next Saturday, November 3rd with competitions ranging from pre-novice singles and pairs, novice singles and pairs and open singles and pairs. Classes start at 10.30am at the Ballycahill, Thurles, Co Tipperary centre and entry fee is €25 for singles and €35 for pairs. For more information contact 086 2573741.

Donkey conference

THE Irish Donkey Society’s PRO James Wyse is one of the guest speakers at Dublin Port Authority’s WWI conference next Saturday. The conference, which is already booked out, marks the centenary of the end of WWI.

Up to 1,000 donkeys were shipped from Dublin Port during WWI and the Donkey Society volunteers will also have ‘four-legged’ exhibits at the event. Donkey-drawn vehicles and two horse-drawn carriages, including President Eamonn De Valera’s carriage, will be on display.

Connemara Pony Sales underway

THE four-day Connemara Pony Sales kicked off in Clifden, Co Galway yesterday (Friday) and run until Monday. With a total of 900 lots on offer, the annual sale is likely to attract big domestic and international interest. The sale starts at 10am each day. View the catalogue on www.connemaraponysales.com.

Time change

ARE you going to an event tomorrow? Don’t forgot the clock go back tonight (Saturday) at 2am, giving you an extra hour in bed.