Death of Eamonn Egan

EAMONN Egan, head of Lloyds Insurance in Ireland and a keen horseman, died in a farming accident last weekend at his home in Maynooth. He was 58. A member of the Ward Union Hunt, he advised the point-to-point and hunting community on insurance issues, and he was also very involved in equestrian sport administration. He is survived by wife Sarah and their their three children. See more on page 75.

West Nile Virus warning

THE Department of Agriculture has advised all horse owners to look out for signs of West Nile Virus (WNV) in their horses. Details of symptoms and how to protect horses from WNV are carried on page 71. Suspected cases must be reported to the Department. Although no cases of WNV have yet been reported in Ireland, mosquitoes capable of spreading the disease have been detected here. Irish horses travelling to countries where WNV is present are also at risk.

Co Limerick stud sold

for €2.4 million

A 100-ACRE farm in Co Limerick which was the Irish base for Qatar Racing has been sold for just over €2.4 million. Spring Lodge in Manister near Croom was auctioned in the Dunraven Arms Hotel on Thursday. Andrew Nolan of Goffs Property reported: “There were 30 people at the auction. Bidding opened at €1.8 million. There were three bidders. It went on the market at €2.35 million and eventually made €2.425 million under the hammer. It was bought by a local businessman.”

Farriery Ireland open day

THOSE interested in pursuing a career in farriery are invited to attend an open day at the Irish School of Farriery at the RACE campus in Kildare town on Thursday, June 19th. From 2pm to 4pm, visitors will be given a tour of the facility and an insight into the Solas apprenticeship and career. Females are encouraged to consider farriery as a career.

Register in advance to attend the open day by emailing info@farrieryireland.ie