THE 2025 Irish Draught Horse Breeders Association (IDHBA) Laois Branch Show was held on Sunday, July 6th, at the picturesque Stradbally Hall, hosted by the Cosby family. Show Chairman Timmy Wilson commented: “We’re delighted to see entry numbers are up compared to recent years, especially as there are a number of other shows on today around the country.”

Five classes were funded by the Breeding Grant Initiative, under National Breeding Services with thanks to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and delivered by Horse Sport Ireland. The Traditional Irish Horse Association supported three classes and the Championship for TIHs, with a class for TIH youngstock added to the schedule for the first time. Treo Eile was a new sponsor for this year, supporting a ridden and performance class for thoroughbred horses.