WHILE most people opening this week’s paper will have Cheltenham on their minds, I would urge readers to delve deep into this issue and help celebrate half a century of the Irish Horse World.

On Tuesday, I had the pleasure of joining leaders of the sport horse industry, and many winners in 2022, as we celebrated a golden year for the sector. It was fitting that the year was one of so much success, as it coincided with the 50th anniversary of The Irish Field awards which are presented to the best riders in eventing, show jumping and dressage. Two of the five awards are for junior riders.

The array of talent in the room, many of whom were winners of the Gain monthly prizes, was stunning, and while many fear that the achievements of our riders last year will be impossible to replicate, I am of the firm belief that were are in a golden age for equestrian sports in Ireland, and in a year’s time we will be celebrating another round of outstanding success.

Tuesday was extra special, as we took the opportunity to honour the six ladies who hold or have held the title of editor of the Irish Horse World. Four of the six have been in the role during my time as editor of The Irish Field, and all six have a common feature – that of being ultimate professionals.

Sadly, the first editor, Averil Douglas, was unable to attend. She founded, at the instigation of Valentine Lamb, that section of the paper, and brought it to great heights.

Among her legacy is the fact that she started the annual awards. Averil passed the baton to Grania Willis, conqueror of Mount Everest, and her great tenure at the helm led to her being snapped up by the FEI.

Siobhan English moved from Fleet Street to the Irish Farm Centre when The Irish Fieldwas acquired by the Agricultural Trust, and this ace photographer was followed in the role by Sascha Geraghty, now Freyne. Both Siobhan and Sascha left their distinctive marks on the paper, before Caitriona Morrissey had a short spell in the hot seat, her talents being recognised by our sister paper, the Irish Farmers Journal, who snapped her up.

Today, we have what I call the dream team in place, Isabel Hurley as editor and Judith Faherty as her great ally. Leading the best team of writers and contributors in the business, they produce weekly copy of the highest quality, and both enjoy the respect and admiration of all the previous editors in spades.

I salute all who have made the Irish Horse World what it is – indispensable.