THE Cork Kerry Branch of the Irish Draught Horse Breeders’ Association had noticed declining numbers in in-hand classes over the past couple of seasons and put their heads together to see what could be done to turn things around.

It was noted that there was a lack of high-profile competitions for Irish Draughts in the Munster region. To this end, they embarked on a partnership with Cork Summer Show to put on attractive Irish Draught mare and foal competitions with a total prize fund of €3,700 across the three classes. Cork Summer Show was also the ideal shop window to showcase the Irish Draught breed, with more than 30,000 visitors frequenting the event.