New league aims to boost eventing in western region

EVENTING Ireland’s revitalised western region is organising an eventing starter stakes league with four classes for Irish-bred four- and five-year-olds, thoroughbreds and ponies. Aimed at identifying future high-class eventers and to encourage breeders, producers and riders, it will also raise the profile of eventing in the western region.

Sponsorship is welcomed and Sligo Candy Boy’s owner Padraig Howley, Derryronane Stud’s Liam Lynskey, Matt Gordon, Treo Eile, PJ Gilligan Racing, Dunlop Sporthorses, Milchem Equestrian Centre’s Ralph Conroy, Barnaboy Stud’s Margaret Hynes and Gordon Elliott Racing have already contributed to the prize fund. Special prizes will be rewarded to the highest-placed traditionally bred four- and five-year-old and ex-racehorse.

Qualifiers (a minimum of two out of four must be attended) take place at Claremorris EC (Saturday, March 19th), Clare EC (Sunday, March 27th), Milchem EC (Sunday, April 3rd) and Galway EC (Sunday, April 10th) before the final takes place at Milchem EC on Easter Monday, April 18th.

Contact EI western region chairman Ralph Conroy (087 274 4945) for further details.