WITH the Croker Cup back on the schedule, Ring 1 on Friday afternoon has now become a haven for many breeders. Immediately after The Irish Field Breeders Championship, the seven thoroughbred entries are set to parade before the judging of the Irish Draught stallion class, so once again ringside seats will be at a premium for the day.

Several changes have taken place in this year’s final with the RDS reducing the prize money, from €5,000 to €2,500 for this year’s winner. Special prizes will be awarded to the three highest-placed foals with a minimum of 60% thoroughbred blood in their pedigree, with an additional caveat being that the foals must be placed in the top eight to qualify.