The Irish Draught and show world bid farewell to one of its greatest stalwarts Timmy Sullivan (86) recently. Timmy bred a number of well-known Draught stallions such as Crannagh Hero, Merrymate and Silver Jasper, while Holycross and his Greenvale champion mare Warren Lass were two others associated with the renowned Draught breeder, judge and inspector.

A native of Kilkenny, Timmy moved to Laois after inheriting his uncle’s farm. Few did as much to protect the heritage of the Irish Draught as the sprightly Sullivan who travelled the island to look at horses he had heard of. As a result of his travels, he had an enormous store of knowledge and anecdotes.

In an Irish Horse feature about Dublin Horse Show memories, Timmy spoke eloquently of how horses travelled by train from their local station, via Kingsbridge (now Heuston) to the show and he also recalled greats from the Irish Draught classes.

In more recent years, it’s hard to recall an annual general meeting, show or stallion inspection where Timmy wasn’t in attendance, usually with his loyal travelling companions, Eileen Brennan, the Wilson and Croke families and Jennifer Haverty. The respect and affection held by them and Timmy’s many other good neighbours and friends was evident at his funeral. Condolences to his brother Bill and sister Maeve. The Irish Draught world and much that is good in Irish life was all the richer for the presence of their brother.

– SF