LIAM Hackett, a student at St. Joseph’s College in Borrisoleigh, first made waves in January when his science project ‘BitFit’ was featured here in The Irish Field during the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition. Now, he’s back in the spotlight as a national winner in the Student Enterprise Programme.

BitFit is a universal bit-fitting device that Liam developed after noticing how much discomfort and behavioural issues can be caused by poorly fitting bits. As a dedicated rider and newly qualified amateur jockey, he realised that while there’s plenty of focus on horseshoe fitting, bit fitting doesn’t get the same attention.

Practical solution

Liam spent a lot of time talking to equine professionals - vets, physiotherapists, farriers, dentists, trainers, jockeys and work riders - to come up with a practical solution. Originally laser cut in plastic, BitFit has since been upgraded to a more durable stainless steel design with a handy storage case. The sliding-ruler tool includes a scale ranging from one to 15, with metric and imperial conversion charts engraved on the box and a locking mechanism for accuracy. It’s designed to make it easier for everyone, from young riders to professional trainers, to measure and fit bits properly - ultimately supporting horse welfare and performance.

Shine a light

The Student Enterprise Programme, which is Ireland’s largest initiative for young entrepreneurs, introduced a new Concepts Award category this year to shine a light on high-potential business ideas still in development. After winning the senior category at the Tipperary county final, Liam went on to the national finals in Mullingar on May 8th, where he was named a national winner in the Concepts Award.

Liam’s prize includes a fully-funded, three-day innovation boot camp at the Patch Labs Innovation Hub in Dublin. It’s a great chance for him to learn more about business and connect with other young entrepreneurs.

Despite running the project solo, Liam is quick to say he couldn’t have done it without the help and encouragement of many people.

“They say it takes a village to raise a child and, in many ways, the same was true for BitFit,” he says.

Liam is especially grateful to all the teachers, whose unwavering belief and support kept him motivated, Gleeson Steel and Engineering in Glengoole and Mike Fitzgerald for their expertise in laser cutting the stainless steel design, and Tina Mulhearne from the Tipperary County Council’s Local Enterprise Office for her practical advice and support.

Industry expertise

Looking ahead, Liam is open to potential investors or collaborators who might want to help take the concept further. Ideally, he’d like to stay involved as a shareholder while someone with industry expertise takes the reins. With a trademark and patent application in place through the Intellectual Property Office of Ireland (IPOI), BitFit has the potential to become a go-to tool for equestrians across the country and beyond.

Anyone interested in learning more, collaborating or exploring investment opportunities can reach out via email at thebitfit@gmail.com.

With the Student Enterprise Programme providing such a strong foundation and BitFit already gaining traction in the equine community, the future looks bright for Liam.