Curran injured

IRISH Army rider Captain Geoff Curran (right) is temporarily side-lined after sustaining a rib fracture during a training session last Friday. However, he expects to be back in the ring within a short time.

FEI rule changes

IRELAND has made a number of proposals for rule changes to the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). The national federation has suggested that penalties be given at show jumping water jumps if any impression is left on the lath.

The current rule states that faults are given if a foot or shoe touches the lath, but not if it is a boot or fetlock. The Irish federation would also like to see the use of video assistance become compulsory for division one Nations Cups and Grand Prix.

The FEI responded that hawk-eye technology is being used at all 2019 Nations Cup competitions and a decision on all other suggestions will be deferred until 2020. Another of Ireland’s proposals is a ban on the use of draw reins at all times in international show jumping for pony riders and children on horses.

This decision has also has been deferred until 2020.

CPBS council nominees

NOMINATIONS for the council of the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society are now being accepted.

Completed forms need to be returned to the ‘Secretary’ at Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society, Clifden, Co Galway, no later than 4pm on Friday, August 2nd. Council nomination forms and further information is available from www.cpbs.ie

Clonroche Gymkhana

THE 82nd annual Clonroche Gymkhana has changed its date to Saturday, July 27th (from Sunday, July 28th) to avoid a clash with the All Ireland hurling semi-final.

It will run as per original SJI schedule and more details can be found on Facebook. The 1m class has a lucrative €1,000 on offer, while the Cooney-Furlong triple bar high jump competition is hugely popular. Other classes include lead rein, junior equitation and a dog show.

All monies raised each year are donated to local charities with Clonroche Meals On Wheels being main benefactor. All enquires to CJ Doyle on 087 2420599.

Erris show

ALL roads lead to Belmullet tomorrow, Sunday July 21st for the annual Erris Agricultural Show. The show is held on the Erris peninsula on the grounds of the airfield and surrounding farm lands. There are many attractions on the day with the Coast Guard helicopter landing at 2pm. In the Connemara Pony section, there is a €500 prize for the mare and foal class judged as a unit. The ground are ideal for the show jumping and in hand showing.

TIHA selection dates

THE selection dates for the Traditional Irish Horse Association sale at Mullingar Equestrian on September 3rd next are as follows:

  • Carlanstown Cross-Country, Co Meath Saturday, August 17th at 6pm
  • Bluegate Equestrian Centre, Callan, Co Kilkenny, Monday August 19th at 6pm.
  • Clonshire Equestrian Centre, Co Limerick, Wednesday, August 21st at 6pm
  • Claremorris Equestrian Centre, Co Mayo, Thursday, August 22nd at 7pm.

    • The cost of entering for selection is €25 and equine passports must be produced on the day.