Two greats of the Irish equestrian scene have passed away: Billy Cotter of Enniskeane, Co Cork, and Hugh Dunlop of Cullybackey, Co Antrim. Both men were giants within their spheres of the Irish Sport Horse world and will long be remembered for their constant contribution and success.

Just the mention of the word Enniskeane brings to mind Billy Cotter, who was a stalwart within the Irish Draught section. Back in the early 1970s, he was a founder member of the Irish Draught Horse Society and remained a valued and steady voice within that sector throughout his life. He did not just talk ID, he bred ID mares like Enniskeane Countess that will long have influence within the ID Stud Book. He was also a great even-headed and practical promoter of traditional breeding and will always be honoured for that.

Hugh Dunlop was a dedicated horse showing man who had an extraordinary eye for a good riding horse. He would make annual tours to Munster shows where he purchased superb young stock that he then matured into in-hand and ridden winners all around the North and then at big championship events in Balmoral and Dublin. Bearing the names of Munster places where he found them, the likes of Skibbereen and Bantry Bay come to mind. Many of his went on to be winners abroad and here at home, like Mark Kyle’s Olympic eventer Coolio.

Because of their dedication to their chosen segment, both men were a great inspiration and great fun to be with. Their memory will be long-lasting.