FROM the many thought-provoking presentations at the Horse Sport Ireland Breeders’ Conference last December, it was dual World Equestrian silver medal-winner Padraig McCarthy’s comments about the need for more thoroughbred blood in event horses in particular that sparked off debates and gave some hope to traditional breeding fans.

Three months later, what does he think about the reaction? “I don’t know if it did have an impact or if people would breed to a thoroughbred horse this year because of that. It would be nice if a few people did, but they’re the ones that should be praised because it’s a difficult and thankless job,” he said.