IT began at Dublin as the brainchild of the late Thady Ryan – rather than judging broodmares and foals on an individual basis, to hold a combination championship.

Breeders and exhibitors took to this breakout approach immediately and 11 qualifiers were held around the country in 1985 when 20 combinations won their places for the inaugural final by placing “first or second at qualifying shows held throughout the country earlier this year.”