On 13 July, Irish Draught owners and supporters attended the launch of the 32nd Irish Draught Horse Society National Breed Show. This year the show makes its return to the west of Ireland and will be held in the Ballinasloe Showgrounds on 4 August.

Irish Draught Horse Society chair Seán McGuirk gave a brief history of the Irish Draught and spoke about the need to preserve the breed. MEP Maria Walsh said a few words before handing over to Councillor Dermot Connolly.

As an Irish Draught breeder himself, Connolly noted how the Irish Draught and horses in general were integral to the town of Ballinasloe and the surrounding area, with large numbers descending on the town every year for the annual October Fair.

The evening ended with Irish Draught judge and Irish Draught Horse Society 2019 hall of fame inductee Cyril McDermott singing a lovely rendition of the Rose of Tralee for Maria prior to her departure.

The National Breed Show will include the Blarney Castle mare of the Future class, young stock classes, mare and foal classes as well as performance and ridden Irish Draught classes.

For more information visit the Society’s Facebook page.