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Winning a war is one thing, working the peace is another.
War certainly broke out in the Irish Sport Horse sector when stallion and mare inspections were summarily scrapped back in December 2015.
A strong fightback by breeders had that decision reversed and, in a sense, the turf war was won.
But what of the peace? Breeders now have to prove that the battle was worth it and that inspections can be made work in the Irish context
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Granted we will never have the great gala events that surround selections in the Netherlands and Germany, but at least we should be able to grow into a situation whereby the inspections are respected and appear to be bearing fruit.
Not since Cruising or Pacino have we had an Irish-bred approved stallion jump for us at the top level, or in the Aga Khan.
I feel we are on the verge of finding some and when we do it will be nice to say: “That horse met our standards at such and such HSI stallion inspection.”
No really strong argument was presented against the inspection programme’s continuance back in 2015.
Most people felt that it had more to do with finance than with breeding policy. But the best possible argument for it’s continuance will come when stallions that have passed through the system make it big on the international circuit.
Quality matters
The eight inspections held so far have been somewhat up and down affairs.
At the first two, back in 2010 and 2011, upwards of 100 colts were entered.
But as the stringency of the test sunk in, the numbers gradually dropped. By 2015 they were back to 41 and in the last two sessions they were in the mid 30s.
However, this was in the face of great uncertainty about their taking place at all in those years.
In the long run it is quality that matters. One can only hope that in the 2018 version of the selection process both numbers and quality will be on the up again.
The hope is that the peace can be won and that there will be a good strong catalogue this time.
Cavan Equestrian will once more host the event, which is open to the public.
The previously announced dates have now been moved back to 21-22 March.
The closing date for entries has also been extended to 19 January. Entry forms can be had from Antonette (045-854508), Lorraine(045-854517) or online at horsesportireland.ie.
NOTE: Owners can now avail of the option to complete the veterinary phase of the process prior to the inspection day. These examinations can take place at four designated veterinary clinics that are listed on the entry forms.
SHARING OPTIONS: