WHILE those attending Saturday’s Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association (Northern Region) awards lunch at Down Royal were lauding this year’s victors, Mossbank, who won the 2008 National Hunt award for Billy McGladdery, was taking part in the racehorse to riding horse parade where he was ridden side saddle by Chloe Thompson of Nutts Corner.

Although he still appears in the ownership of Gigginstown House Stud at major functions, the 18-year-old Kadeed gelding is lovingly cared for by Thompson’s neighbour Alistair McDonald. The pair also combine as owner and rider of the unraced Tikkanen mare Beechburn Lass who competes in thoroughbred classes, working hunter competitions and one-day events.