ALL equestrian sports need sponsorship and much thanks and kudos should go to those individuals and companies who continued to offer their support during 2020.

The Horse Sport Ireland Autumn Development Series in dressage, eventing and show jumping was much appreciated by riders especially those professionals who had little opportunity to earn money during the year.

One way however was through online sales and many producers have upped their game in this sphere with increased quality of videos, horse production and turn-out. Sales companies too have embraced social media and it was very encouraging to see the high clearance rate at sales when they resumed, mainly online.

Social media was utilised by most of HSI’s affiliate groups to keep their members informed and motivated when sport was on hold and to organise matters when restrictions were eased. I think the Irish Pony Society could have done more to run Area shows and training during the year, like the Irish Pony Club which held rallies, etc. at Branch level and managed to run its national hunter trials championships.