MONKSTOWN, Co Cork-based owner Mike McGrath was in touch with us recently to announce the retirement of Dromgurrihy Blue (Rocky) at the age of 16.

The Irish Sport Horse gelding by Puissance was bred in Co Kilkenny by Teresa Walsh out of Castlemorris Hope (by Furisto) and was first produced here by Patricia and Michael Ryan. The former rode him in 2006 and 2007, handing the ride over to Michael in June of the following year. On a great day for the Bandon eventing yard, Michael partnered Rocky to win the CCI1* at Tattersalls in 2009 while Patricia won the CIC3*W on Fernhill Clover Mist with Michael finishing second on Old Road.