Stamm 30 Stands at Scarvagh
The science of feeding horses is very complex but built around a simple premise. Proper development is essential to maximum performance. That is why Bluegrass Horse Feeds is working hard with owners, trainers and the industry to help develop awareness of sound nutritional strategies for performance.
In the field, this translates into yard visits, with Bluegrass reps, such as Craig Keliff visiting yards to help owners and trainers with their nutrition plans for the season. It can be a very individual process for each horse, but generally quality ingredients and a sound knowledge of what horses need at each stage of their development or training will bring success. Just this week, Craig was setting out the nutritional plans for the stallions at Scarvagh, which include the addition of Stamm 30 to the diet.
Stamm 30 ‘foal to finish balancer’, available exclusively in Ireland from Bluegrass Horse Feeds,is a highly concentrated source of proteins, vitamins and minerals, designed for foals, yearlings, broodmares, stallions and performance horses. Stamm 30is manufactured in an easy to use pellet, to aid digestion and reduce waste.
Stamm 30 ‘foal to finish balancer’ utilises proteinated trace minerals, copper, zinc and manganese to increase the bioavailability of these elements critical for bone, cartilage and muscular tissue development. A bio-available form of magnesium has been added to Stamm 30 as the latest nutrition research suggests that magnesium requirements are higher in horses under high stress loads, such as lactating mares. Magnesium also increases muscle strength and improves the structural integrity of the skeleton, making Stamm 30 a useful addition to your foal’s diet as he begins to share his dam’s feed.
A revolutionary new blend of yeast and yeast cultures has also been incorporated into Stamm 30 to improve the digestibility of certain nutrients in the diet. Fed alone or mixedwith the usual feed ration, Stamm 30 provides horses of all ages with the balanced nutrients they need and helps to build better equine athletes.
Anyone looking for a nutritional assessment of their stallions’ or mares’ diet for the forthcoming breeding season can download a free diet sheet at www.bluegrasshorsefeed.com
To help spread the word on the benefits of sound nutrition, specifically for the performance and thoroughbred sectors, Bluegrass Horse Feeds is exhibiting at the The Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association International Trade Fair and Symposium on Thursday 24th - Saturday 26th January 2008 at Goffs, Kill, Co. Kildare. Come and see them on stand 24.
For more information about Bluegrass Horse Feeds please telephone 048 37 548276or visit their website at www.bluegrasshorsefeed.com
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Craig Keliff of Bluegrass Horse Feeds and Russell Ferris manager of Scarvagh House Stud, setting out the nutrition plans for the stallions at Scarvagh. |
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Blue Grass sets Exceptional Standards
Michael Ryan and Master Mexico win the Blue Grass Irish Eventing Super League
Although new this year, the Blue Grass Irish Super League has set high standards for the world of eventing. Nothing quite like it has been seen on Irish soil before – with seven gruelling legs, hosted at the most prestigious courses in the country, the league saw the best of the best, horse and rider combinations battle it out for a most sought-after title – the Blue Grass Super League Champion.
The standards were exceptionally high in what is possibly the most asking and versatile of equestrian sports – eventing – requiring excellence in a number of disciplines. The league proved a superb format and championship, and after months of hard work, it was the talented Michael Ryan who took the league crown at the finals on the 1st September. It was a thrill for Blue Grass representative, Craig, to present the trophy to the winner – who is also a Blue Grass customer. Riding Master Mexico, he finished on a score of 16, just 2 points ahead of the Reserve Champion place, which he also scooped on his other ride – Dances with Wolves. This double championship placing is a huge victory for Michael, proving his talent and horsemanship a plenty.
Hopefully this win is some consolidation for Michael, who unfortunately missed out on selection for the European team this year. With such a title under his belt the future looks bright for him.
The final stage of the league took place at Loughanmore – the most galloping course in Ireland’s 1-day eventing scene. Designed by Becky Cullen, it is an extremely demanding course. Nonetheless, the riders set levels to aspire to in both dressage and jumping elements – the competition was hot. Becky Cullen, riding Wee Hot Toddy was right on Michael’s toes, finishing in 3rd place around her own course – the double points gained in this Advanced International stage allowed her a score of 10, placing her 4th in the league overall. Steven Smith’s score of 11 (gained from other stages of the competition) secured him third place in the championship.
The Blue Grass Super League final drew in a huge crowd of spectators. With 300 horses appearing on the day the event was well worth a watch. This was aided by the live TV coverage found in the Blue Grass marquee – allowing people to watch the cream of equestrian crop tackle the course live. This fabulous innovation was thanks to the supplier, AES Solutions of Cookstown. Its great success meant the marquee was packed with on-lookers throughout the day. On a Mission (Owner’s Supporters Group) provided hospitality throughout the league. Their efforts were greatly appreciated and ensured the competitors and spectator’s needs were fully catered for.
Credit has to go to the organisers of the Blue Grass Irish Eventing Super League for ensuring the whole event ran smoothly and was the massive success it was predicted to be. Events such as this are hoped to encourage Irish riders to compete at home rather than taking their horses abroad so often. Blue Grass looks forward to the next Super League – if this year’s was anything to go by, the talent will be no less than top-class. |
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> Click here to view 2007 results |
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BLUEGRASS BACKS PERFORMANCE FOAL SHOW

Bluegrass Horse Feeds is pleased to announce its sponsorship of the forthcoming Half Bred Horse Breeders Society’s Performance Foal Show.
Taking place at 10.30am on Saturday 8th September 2007 at the Mossvale Equestrian Centre in Dromara, the show is now in its forth year and is expected to attract entries from over 40 foals.
Allowing potential purchasers the opportunity to see the equine athletes of the future, the foals are shown in-hand and then turned loose and are judged on their conformation, type and athleticism. A considerable prize fund and a trophy presented to the HBHBS by Sean Nugent await the winner.
In its capacity as official sponsor, Bluegrass will be on hand at the show, offering breeders and potential purchasers free nutritional consultations and advice on the latest feed advancements in its Kentucky Equine Research-endorsed horse feed formulations.
For entry enquiries, please contact Shirley Livingstone at the Half Bred Horse Breeders Society on 028 4062 2658 or write to: Shirley Livingstone, HBHBS, Orangehill Head, 76 Ballygowan Road, Banbridge.
For further information about Bluegrass, please call 028 3754 8276 (UK), 048 3754 8276 (ROI) or visit www.bluegrasshorsefeed.com.
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Feeding Champions!
Held on 8th to 12th August 2007 at the RDS complex in the heart of Dublin, the Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show was a spectacular event for equestrian professionals and enthusiasts alike, offering gripping international show-jumping and showing as well as exhibitions and shopping aplenty.
Leading equine feed manufacturer Bluegrass Horse Feed has particular cause for celebration after the show, with a plethora of its professional customers winning across the competition circuit. Over 15 Bluegrass-fed horses scooped top honours, highlighting the feed’s winning formulation.
Bluegrass-fed winners include:
Young riders
- 8YO & Upward Finals – (2nd) – John Higgins – Flaming Star
- Young Event – (1st) – Stuart Crawford – Amacuzzi
Northern riders
- Class 28 Coloured Horses – (1st) – Michelle Murphy – Red Ruby Man
- Class 36 Mares – (1st) – Mark English, Donacloney – My Irish Charm
- Class 56 2YO Filly – (1st) – Valerie McCallister, Drumbo – Like A Diamond
- Class 91 First Ridden Ponies – (1st) – Sophie Buller, Scarvagh House – My Little Secret
- Coloured Horse Champion – (1st) – Seamus O’Rourke, Creggan – Red Ruby Man
- Medium Weight Hunter Mares – (1st) – Joanne Jordan, Glenavy – Ferndale Autumn
- Samuel Usher Robert Perpetual Cup – (1st) – Leslie Webb, Comber – Double Take
- Supreme Show Champion – (1st) – Leslie Webb, Comber – Double Take
Southern riders
- Class 1 Lightweight Hunter Gelding – (1st) – Michael Lewis, Glenmaura – Lorenzo
- Class 18 Lightweight Mares & Geldings – (1st) – Rosemary Connors, Woodstown – Woodfield Bing
- Class 3 Lightweight Hunter Mares – (1st) – Rosemary Connors, Woodstown – Woodfield Vallier
- Class 49 Breeder’s Champion – (1st) – Margaret Jeffares, Drinagh – Debbie’s Clover
- Class 59 3YO Geldings To Be Led – (1st) – Rosemary Connors, Woodstown – Woodfield Indo
- Cup No.15 Perpetual Challenge Trophy – 1st – Rosemary Connors, Woodstown – Woodfield Vallier
- Cup No.47 Perpetual Challenge Trophy – (1st) – Seamus O’Rourke, Creggan
- Longines International Grand Prix – (1st) – Gerry Flynn – Mo Chroi
- Samuel Usher Robert Perpetual Cup – (2nd) – Michael Lewis, Glenmaura – Lorenzo
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Supreme Show Champion – Leslie Webb – Double Take |
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Young Event – Stuart Crawford – Amacuzzi |
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Longines International Grand Prix – Gerry Flynn – Mo Chroi
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Coloured Horses – Michelle Murphy – Red Ruby Man
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Breeder’s Champion – Margaret Jeffares – Debbie’s Clover
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8YO & Upward Finals – (2nd) – John Higgins – Flaming Star |
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Highs and lows of double Bluegrass Superleague weekend
Weather hindered the double whammy of Bluegrass Superleague eventing activities held on the weekend of August 4th and 5th, providing a mixed bag of results.
The weekend got off to a promising start at Glenarm on Saturday 4th, with Stuart Crawford taking first place with a score of 45.1 on Bellaney Destiny, owned by Mandy Farr. Steven Smith on Quality VH gave Stuart a run for his money in the dressage with a score of 30 compared to Stuart’s 33.5, but Stuart then sailed through the show-jumping round with a faultless score and rounded the day off with a middling score of 11.6 in the cross country to gain top position. This was quite a feat for Stuart – who regularly feeds Bluegrass Horse Feed to his horses – as he was also the course designer, making the day especially busy for him.
Held on Sunday 5th, Ballinacoola unfortunately had to be abandoned after the dressage competition due to torrential rain. Though the bad weather held off long enough for Captain Geoff Curran to come first in the dressage with a score of 54.7 on Balladeer Alfred, owned by Minister for Defence, Maurice Cassidy, the remaining show-jumping and cross country scores categories were called off.
Bluegrass’ sales manager, Declan Cullen says of the unfortunate end to the weekend: “It was disappointing to see Ballinacoola abandoned. Organisers, the Phillips family, had put so much time and energy into the event – the perfectly manicured dressage arenas were spectacular and the event really set the standard for others to aspire to. However, the overnight and consistent deluge meant that technical director David Lee had no choice but to call the event off in the interests of safety. It was a real shame, especially since so many people had travelled to see the event. Many congratulations though to Stuart Crawford for his win at Glenarm.”
The good news is, however, that an extra round of the Superleague has now been scheduled to replace the Ballinacoola event, which is set to take place on Sunday 19th August at Kilmanahan, Co Kilkenny.
Cick here to see league table results
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Congratulations to Richard Iggulden & Leslie Webb of Orchard Stables on a Successful Balmoral 2007
Results:
Supreme Champion - Spruce Goose
Reserve Champion - Freddie Krugger
Lightweight 4yo Winner - Noble Man
4yo Middleweight Winner - Mill Bank Classic
4yo Heavyweight Winner - Spruce Goose
4yo Champion - Spruce Goose
4yo Reserve Champion - Noble Man
6yo Heavyweight Winner - Freddie Krugger
Ladies Side Saddle Winner - Freddie Krugger
Champion Ladies Winner - Freddie Krugger
Ladies A Stride Winner - Freddie Krugger
Lightweight Small Hunter Winner - Kilpatrick Lord
Reserve Small Hunter - Walton Bengal Tiger
Heavyweight Winner - My Pal Joey
4yo Working Hunter Winner - Double Take
Pictured above right: Supreme Champion Richard Iggulden and Spruce Goose
Pictured right: Ladies Champion Leslie Webb and Freddie Krugger
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The Blue Grass Irish Eventing Super League
After an extremely successful introduction at Ballindenisk and Tyrella, The Blue Grass Irish Super League kicked back into action at Kilmanahan on the 13th May with its Intermediate Dressage Event.
First Mate ridden by Frazer Duffy gained 1st place, followed by Kilpatrick River ridden by Elizabeth Power in 2nd and Master Mexico ridden by Michael Ryan in 3rd place.
After the third event Ringford Rara Ruby, ridden by Steven Smith and owned by Diane Harron Eakin is still leading the league with a Superleague Total of 11 points. Joint second is still Dances With Wolves ridden by Michael Ryan, Fernhill Clover Mist ridden by Patricia Ryan (nee Donegan) and First Mate ridden by Fraser Duffy all with 6 points.
The Super League consists of Open and Advanced Intermediate classes and will be taking place at a further four leading Irish event venues Ballinacoola (22/07), Glenarm (04/08), Ashmount (05/08) and the winner will be crowned at Loughanmore on the 1st September where they will receive the honoured title of Blue Grass Irish Super League Champion and scoop a prize of £1400.
Blue Grass is the inaugural sponsors of these events, which are collectively aimed at promoting the Irish horse and rider to a standard that hasn’t before been seen in this country.
The Eventing Ireland website can be found at www.eventingireland.com
For Ballinacoola venue enquiries contact Miss Georgina Philips at Ballinacoola on 087 231 4127
Silver Birch – Ireland’s New Hero
Bluegrass Horse Feed would like to congratulate owner Brian Walsh, trainer Gordon Elliot, jockey Robbie Power and, of course, Silver Birch, for a terrific, race-winning performance at the John Smith’s Grand National at Aintree on Saturday 14 April.
The result was a coup for Ireland: not only was the ten-year-old gelding Silver Birch Irish-owned and Irish-trained, but also fed on premium race products formulated by Ireland’s own Bluegrass Horse Feed.
Declan Cullen, sales manager of Bluegrass Horse Feed, said: ‘This is a terrific result for everyone involved. Our philosophy has always been to create feeds that encapsulate the science of success, and we’re overjoyed that our products have played a part in Silver Birch’s amazing win.’
The story of Silver Birch’s Grand National was certainly a remarkable one, and a classic triumph of the underdog against the odds. Brian Walsh bought Silver Birch at the Doncaster sales last year for 20,000 guineas, at which time the gelding was suffering with a leg injury. Under the tutelage of Gordon Elliott’s skills as an up-and-coming trainer, Silver Birch was able to overcome his lameness, train to top condition and defy his 33-1 odds to emerge victorious by a comfortable margin at the climax of an exciting and intense race. By backing his own horse, even when it had ante-post odds of 66-1, owner Walsh scooped in excess of £300 000.
Silver Birch may have been considered something of an underdog by the bookies, but not by Elliott, who, along with Walsh, had faith in the gelding from the very beginning. On the morning of the Grand National he was confident that Silver Birch was in top form, and he was reported as saying: ‘He’s fine, he’s in good order and he ate up this morning.’
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Owner Brian Walsh (Behind trophy) and wife Karen celebrating
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Blue Grass Horse Feed is immensely proud that the feed Silver Birch ‘ate up’ on the morning of the race was its very own Prep 14, a high fibre, high fat performance feed which provides a slow-releasing energy source for horses requiring extra stamina. The feed enables a 20% energy boost over conventional sweet feed, and is fortified with the industry’s leading energy supplement Stamm 30. Prep 14 is also the feed of choice for many of the world’s most highly regarded sales agencies when prepping bloodstock for the sale ring.
To achieve the science of success and the best possible product, all Bluegrass’ feeds are created in consultation with world-renowned nutritional scientists at the Kentucky Equine Research Centre in the USA.
Silver Birch, who came back from the brink this year and enjoyed a tremendous homecoming in Ireland thanks to his phenomenal win, looks set to go from strength to strength, as he keeps the momentum going at Punchestown at the end of April.
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Blue Grass Eventing Super League Kicks off in Ireland
The Blue Grass Irish Eventing Super League is new for 2007 and affords Ireland’s most talented up and coming horse and rider combinations the opportunity to compete across a series of high quality classes. The developing combinations are able to raise their game throughout the series, as they experience advanced dressage tests and show jumping tracks.
The league consists of Open and Advanced Intermediate classes, at 7 leading Irish event venues: Ballindenisk, Tyrella 1, Kilmanahan, Ballinacoola, Glenarm, Ashmount and Loughanmore.
Declan Cullen, Blue Grass Horse Feed’s Sales Manager, was the driving force behind the idea for the Super League. He said: “Blue Grass is proud to be the inaugural sponsors of these events, which are collectively aimed at promoting the Irish horse and rider to a standard that hasn’t before been seen in this country. This will be a system of development so that horses, riders and also owners feel included in a major competition.”
“This is a stepping stone to the resurgence of the Irish event horse on the world stage,” he continued, “replicating what our breeders have done for the past 12 consecutive years. Hopefully this will allow us in Ireland to become pro-active in the standard and presentation of our sport, rather than re-active.”
Blue Grass has been acknowledged for many years for its association with the Kentucky Equine Research Centre (KER), a mutually beneficial partnership that has allowed the feed available today to be formulated in consultation with the leading nutritional scientists in the world. It was this professional and scientific approach to feeding and performance that made Blue Grass’s association with the Super League so attractive to Eventing Ireland.
“I loved the idea of the Super League from the moment I first discussed it with Declan,” said Lars Christiensson, the High Performance Manager with Eventing Ireland, “as I saw how it could act as a tool to raise the standard of events in Ireland, and be an incentive to continue to breed the best event horses in the world, to be kept and brought up in Ireland.”
Lars sees the league as filling an important gap that has affected Ireland for too long, with eventers having to travel to England and further afield to compete at a certain level. “By having a league of high standard events that provide a gradual increase in ability, challenges, difficulty and training, it is an excellent way to monitor our performance horses, and to ensure that future horses can be brought up in Ireland in an exciting, rewarding and expanding industry environment.”
“It is vitally important that horses are properly trained, competed and fed, which is why a partnership with Blue Grass was so interesting and exciting to me. Nutrition, and the science of nutrition, is a field in which Blue Grass excels, and we are happy to have the sponsorship, enthusiasm and expertise of the company behind us for the Super League.”
The Super League will kick off on March 25 at Ballindenisk as an Open Intermediate class, results of which, and for every subsequent event, will appear both on the Eventing Ireland and the Blue Grass Horse Feed websites.
The winner will be crowned at Loughanmore on September 1, where they will receive the title of Blue Grass Irish Super League Champion and scoop a prize of €2000 (£1400). 2nd Place will be awarded the title of Blue Grass Irish Super League Reserve Champion, and take home a healthy €1000 (£750), with €500 (£350) allotted to 3rd place.
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Blue Grass sponsors Northern Ireland Stallion Show
The Northern Ireland Stallion Show – this year sponsored by Blue Grass Horse Feed – took place on the 3rd March at Necarne, Co Fermanagh.
The parade – then and now
The Northern Ireland Stallion Parade started in the early 1990s and has grown in popularity ever since. From the early days of the first parade at the Maze Racecourse, the venue has had to respond to fulfil the demands of an ever-expanding show: it has now become one of the major showcases for the horse breeding industry. Over the years, Northern Ireland-bred horses have excelled in sport at the highest level: horses such as Monsanto, True Blue, Lisnamarrow, Countryman, and Liscalgot in showjumping; Murphy Himself, Woodperfect, Maid Marion, Highscope in eventing; and Accolade in dressage.
The annual show is now well established in the equine calendar, and well over 1000 people travel to see what’s new in the Stallion world or to reassess old favourites.
Feeding for breeding
As all breeders know it is the future that matters, and the Stallion Show offers the opportunity to see first hand the current stallions at stud. This allows comparison, and aids selection for the next breeding season.
Blue Grass’ newly launched Stud Mix is at the cutting edge of feeding technology, thanks to being formulated in consultation with scientists at the world-renowned Kentucky Equine Research Centre in America. Stud Mix is a highly palatable blend of grain, super-fibres and alfalfa designed for breeding stallions and broodmares, which is made super-effective by the inclusion of the leading breeding supplement Stamm 30©. Proud to lend its support and expertise to the Parade, Blue Grass has long been successfully associated with nutritional excellence in feeding for the performance and breeding sectors.
Gearing up for the show
Over the years, Stallion icons such as Coral Society, Western Promise, Cruising, and Ard Allez Cat have paraded at the show. This year was no exception, as the organising committee worked hard to provide a show that catered for all tastes, but with an emphasis on performance.
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KER Makes an Impact in Ireland
Dr Joe Pagan, president of the Kentucky Equine Research Centre (KER) in Versaille, Kentucky, recently completed a lecture tour of Ireland, sponsored by Bluegrass Horse Feed. He shared with Ireland’s equestrian world his latest groundbreaking research into energy and the performance horse, growth rates of the foal and yearling, and vitamin E and the Thoroughbred Horse.
Thanks to years of collating data at KER through researching, comparing and contrasting thousands of different foals, Dr Pagan was able to provide the audience and buyers alike with an optimal body weight for all-round better performance, and showed how growth rates could impact on horses at a later date; breeders in the audience were staggered by the scale and thoroughness of the research.
John Watson, Training and Performance Team Leader at Eventing Ireland, said of the lecture: “It was a very thought-provoking presentation. It showed me the need to examine our individual current feeding practices and to decide on what ‘tweaks’ are advisable, and gave pointers as to the direction in which to look. “From my own perspective, I was pleased that I was not a million miles off track already. But I was delighted I made the effort to attend because I learned there are still areas in which I can see a potentially rewarding improvement.”
Dr Bridget Younge, equine nutritionist at University of Limerick, thought that the lecture was extremely interesting. She was particularly impressed by the way in which Dr Pagan related incidences of osteochondrosis (OCD) in horses to growth rate, body size and condition scoring in foals and yearlings, and how he brought that forward in terms of how well they did in the sales ring and at the race track. “It was definitely a worthwhile visit for the entire industry,” she said. “Dr Pagan conducted the question and answer session at the end of the lecture extremely well, giving good replies and advice on feeding that was applicable to people’s needs, while presenting scientific information in an easily digestible form.”
Representatives attended from Italy, as well as Scotland and England, alongside people from the Irish National Stud, Ballyhane and Kildangan Studs; degree students from UCL and Gurteen; and thoroughbred breeders, endurance and event riders from the length and breadth of Ireland, to name but a sample.
Jim Newsam, a well-known eventing rider in Northern Ireland, who competes up to 3-star level, attended the lecture at the Beech Lawn Hotel. He said: “It was all very interesting. A lot of things, like the section on omega 3 and omega 6 I hadn’t come across before, and it’s certainly given me a lot to think about.”
The respect that Dr Pagan commands in the world of equine nutrition was highlighted by the attendance of feed companies from all across England and Ireland, notably Horselyx, Gowla, Red Mills and Tenderlene.
Sales Manager of Bluegrass, Declan Cullen, said: “Those who attended genuinely had a thirst for developing their knowledge, and I was thrilled with how well Joe’s presentations were received. People were coming up and shaking our hands, and thanking us for making it happen.”
Neil Morris, of Eventing Ireland, felt that the lectures provided excellent technical information on a range of topics, and was well hosted by Bluegrass Horse Feeds. “It was great to have access to a world renowned expert like Dr Pagan in an open forum like this.”
Owing to the success of the lecture tour, Bluegrass is holding talks to investigate the possibility of hosting similar events bi-annually, in partnership with another team member. The next time Dr Pagan touches down on European soil, he may very well find himself addressing eager audiences at Newmarket.
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Irish Riders Roll Out Heroic Performances
Bluegrass-sponsored riders certainly made a spectacular impact at the Northern Ireland International Horse Show, with riders and horses of all ages, shapes and sizes making their mark in front of a global audience.
Talented young rider Carol Cawley claimed her first ever Grand Prix victory in the Bewleys Hotels 138cm National Championship, riding Kildea Hero. Their Belfast debut was characterised by a phenomenal performance, a clear round and a time of 26.75 seconds.
Carol feeds Kildea Hero on Bluegrass Horse Feeds’ 14% Hi-Performance Mix, a feed specially formulated for horses and ponies in medium to hard work. Made from top-quality cereal grains processed for optimal release of nutrients, the mix contains supplemental protein, vitamins and minerals to meet the demands of equine athletes – the presence of a special live yeast culture promotes good fibre digestibility.
Peter Smyth’s horse, Rollo Tomasi, on which he competes and also owns, is sponsored by Bluegrass’ own indispensable sales representative, Sharon Nolan (no relation). In the 1m 55 WKD International Show Jumping Stakes at Belfast Peter and Rollo gave a dazzling performance to finish in fifth place.
It was his biggest competition to date, and he jumped very well,” said Peter. “He showed a lot of potential and I know he’s destined for much bigger things in the future.”
 Peter feeds Rollo on Race 13 and Equi-Jewel, a high-fat stabilised rice bran supplement that increases the energy density of a horse’s ration. Equi-Jewel helps maintain weight on hard-to-keep horses with increased energy demands such as lactating mares and performance horses. Adding stabilised rice bran to the diet avoids potential digestive upset, which may occur with high grain feeding.
“Feeding him Bluegrass feeds has given him a lot more condition and muscle,” said Peter. “He’s jumped all year and he’s been on it since February. He’s as fit and fresh and healthy now as he’s ever been.”
With its feed formulated in consultation with nutritional experts at the Kentucky Equine Research Centre, and commitment to dedicated riders and equine athletes of all denominations, Bluegrass is sure to be the driving horse and helping hand behind the best–of-the-best nationwide in 2007.
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Ireland to Host Dr Joe Pagan Tour
Dr Joe Pagan, President of the Kentucky Equine Research Centre (KER), in Versaille, Kentucky, is embarking on a lecture tour of Ireland this November to talk with those in the racehorse industry, and those passionate about equine science. During the talks he will cover developments he has pioneered in the fields of equine nutrition, and research he has conducted into the connection between nutrition, conformation and performance in horses.
Bluegrass Horse Feeds is excited to be hosting and sponsoring Dr Pagan’s appearances, especially since its range of top-quality, high-performance feeds is formulated in consultation with the world-renowned nutritional scientists working at KER.
Dr Pagan’s Credentials
Dr Pagan has a Ph.D. in equine nutrition from Cornell University, and has recently received the American Feed Industry Association Award. He founded the Equine Research Centre in 1988, in order to serve regional feed manufacturers that did not have the resources to fund their own research programs.
The Evolution of KER
From humble beginnings with just one client, a home-based office, and four horses, KER has grown to incorporate more than thirty staff, 142 acres of land, and a research herd of twenty horses. KER is proud to boast a research network that spreads from Hong Kong to Dublin and beyond.
The work of Dr Pagan and his KER staff is extensive, and involves research and product development into all facets of horse nutrition and exercise physiology. This includes trials to evaluate the digestibility of various feed ingredients, development studies in foals and yearlings, and exercise physiology studies with Thoroughbred racehorses.
Getting Involved
Dr Pagan is scheduled to appear on the:
- 21st of November at the Beech Lawn Hotel, Lisburn, County Down
- 22nd of November at Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge, Co. Kildare
- 23rd of November at Limerick Race Course, Limerick, Co. Limerick
Admission to Dr Pagan’s lectures is free. You can book your place at www.bluegrasshorsefeed.com.
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Scotland Shines at HOYS
Kirstine Douglas did Scotland proud at the Horse of the Year Show (October 4 – 8 2006) at the NEC in Birmingham. Riding her Bluegrass-fed horse, Harry Rodger’s District Court, she achieved fifth place in the Middleweight Hunter of the Year class.
For riders nationwide, HOYS is the crème de la crème of equestrian competition. It is testament to Kirstine’s training, dedication and shrewd choice of feed that she not only successfully qualified for the event, but then also performed so well when she competed.
Kirstine feeds her horse on Equi-Jewel, a high-fat stabilised rice bran supplement that increases the energy density of a horse’s ration. It also helps maintain weight on hard-to-keep horses with increased energy demands such as lactating mares and performance horses. A good source of B vitamins, it contains added calcium carbonate. Adding stabilised rice bran to the diet avoids potential digestive upset, which may occur with high grain feeding.
“Equi-Jewel gives my horse all of the good energy he needs,” said Kirstine. “It definitely gave him a boost in the right direction for HOYS.”
Bluegrass is sure that Kirstine and her horse will continue to enjoy every success in competitions to come, especially with the full support of Bluegrass’s nutritional expertise, in partnership with scientists at the Kentucky Equine Research Centre, USA.
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Bluegrass Backs a Winner in Connor
Bluegrass Horse Feeds is extremely proud to be the sponsor of Connor Swail, the newly crowned 2006 Boswell Equestrian National Grand Prix League Champion, with 120 points and a massive 19-point lead on his nearest rival.
Overall victory was effectively sealed for Connor on Thursday September 7 at Iverk, Co. Kilkenny, when he turned in three fault-free performances on Rivaal, Alaska and Conduct to come in fourth, third and first place respectively.
Connor’s horses certainly benefit from the Bluegrass feed with which they’re fuelled - formulated as they are in consultation with equine experts at the Kentucky Equine Research Centre. Bluegrass’s commitment to Connor runs deeper than being merely a feed supplier. Connor’s horses were all subject to full nutritional consultancies and physiological assessments from Bluegrass to complement their choice of feed and professional training. Bluegrass is quick to boast that the combination of its top-of-the-range feed and intensive expertise add up to the best package possible for equine athletes of all callings.
Connor is the latest in a long line of Irish riders helped to victory by Bluegrass, from showing champion Richard Iggulden, to Michael Ryan in the eventing sphere, to top-class racehorse trainer, Shane Kelly.
Connor feeds all of his winning horses on Bluegrass’ Cool ‘N’ Condition and Transform Mix. Uniquely formulated with the caloried supplement Equi-Jewel, which reduces the cooked cereal meal in a horse’s diet, and increases safe calorie intake, Bluegrass’ Cool ‘N’ Condition is designed to promote show ring condition and shine. High oil helps to produce an excellent coat and increases the energy density of the feed from a slow-releasing, non-heating source, without encouraging the “fizz” normally associated with high-grain feeds.
Transform Mix boasts quality grains and a unique blend of oils and flavourings, providing a highly palatable ration. Formulated to meet the nutritional needs of a wide variety of horse classes and requirements, Transform Mix is ideal for horses undergoing a fittening programme and light to medium workload. The inclusion of cooked maize, wheat and barley provides the energy required, yet avoids the high spirits in horses often associated with the feeding of top quality oats.
With Bluegrass behind him, Connor is sure to continue to go from strength to strength, and everyone at the company wishes him the best of success.
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Connor Keen to Compete on Bluegrass
Bluegrass Horse Feeds is proud to be the new sponsor of League Leader of the Boswell Equestrian National Grand Prix, Connor Swail. Connor has achieved four first places and three seconds in the league over the course of the year, and enjoyed international success in the CSIO**** in Drammen, Norway.
Connor was keen to try out Bluegrass’s range of feeds on his horses before committing himself to a sponsorship deal. After a few months of switching to Bluegrass feed, Connor was happy to report that his horses had performed tremendously and enjoyed a real improvement, leading him to embrace the endorsement with enthusiasm.
“I use the entire range, because we have different horses with all sorts of different dietary requirements,” says Connor. “I think the expert advice from the Bluegrass team is a fantastic help. They always come down and make sure that we’re happy with the horse’s attitude, weight control, things like that. It’s an excellent part of their commitment to customers.”
Connor is particularly impressed by the high-fat stabilised rice bran supplement Equi-Jewel, which he says is ideal for putting weight on his competition horses without making them excitable.
“I am aiming to win the League,” says Connor, “Then I’m going to compete in a few international events, with Bluegrass behind me the whole way.”
Bluegrass Horse Feeds’ is incredibly excited by the sponsorship deal, and overjoyed to have its comprehensive range of equine products endorsed by a rider of Connor’s championship calibre. It is hoped that this will serve as a first step in Bluegrass’s commitment to the overall showjumping fraternity. Bluegrass already enjoys the accolade of being the official feed consultant for Ireland’s 3-day Event Team.
All feed products and supplements in the range are lent expertise through the company’s affiliation with the world's leading research center in equine nutrition, Kentucky Equine Research (KER).
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Thornton Hits the Top at Barnadown with Bluegrass
Bluegrass Horse Feeds is proud to announce yet another winning connection with talented rider Catherine Thornton, who won the prestigious Show Jumping Association of Ireland Four Year Old National Championship at Barnadown in Co. Wexford riding her remarkable gelding RoundThorn Madios. Bluegrass-fed RoundThorn Madios was also awarded the Irish Horse Board Prize for the highest placed Irish bred horse in the Four Year Old Final.
Horse and rider are no strangers to success having this year already won the RDS Qualifier in Barnadown, been placed fourth in the RDS Final in Dublin and won the National Balmoral Four Year Old Championship in Belfast.
Owner Patricia Connon from Crumlin, Co. Antrim, feeds RoundThorn Madios on Bluegrass Horse Feeds’ Cool ‘N’ Condition, a fully balanced non-heating cube designed to promote show ring condition and shine. High oil in the feed helps to produce an excellent coat and increases the energy density of the feed from a slow-releasing, non-heating source, without encouraging the “fizz” normally associated with high-grain feeds.
The inclusion of the high-fat supplement Equi-Jewel is totally unique among conditioning feeds, and includes glycerol and essential fatty acids, elements linked to elastic skin and glossy coats. Research has proven that Equi-Jewel lowers heart rate and lactic acid levels during exercise, therefore helping to promote recovery.
Cool ‘N’ Condition is ideal for all horses in work and competition, including performance horses, showing, sales prepping and veterans or hard to keep horses. The feed is part of Bluegrass Horse Feeds’ comprehensive range of equine nutrition products, developed in conjunction with the world's leading research center in equine nutrition, Kentucky Equine Research (KER).
Bluegrass Horse Feeds’ is the top class feeding company for top class competitors across all of Ireland and Scotland - extremely happy to be the feed of choice for Catherine and Roundthorn Madios.
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Success for Bluegrass-Sponsored Tomasi at Cork
Peter Smyth on Rollo Tomasi finished in fabulous fourth place in the fiercly fought Grand Prix Super League 1.50m at Millstreet Horse Show on Sunday August 20. Bluegrass-sponsored Rollo Tomasi competed in the County Cork event while fed on Bluegrass Horse Feed’s Race 13 and high-energy supplement, Equi-Jewel.
Sharon Nolan is the Bluegrass rep for Peter Smyth’s area, and is always on hand to keep Rollo Tomasi topped up with feed. Sharon’s personal expertise in equestrian feeding, coupled with the nutritional excellence on hand from Bluegrass Horse Feed and the Kentucky Equine Research Centre, is always available to Peter.
“Rollo is performing brilliantly this year,” said Sharon, “and we at Bluegrass are very happy to be sponsoring such a successful combination of horse and rider. We wish Peter all the best at the rest of his shows throughout the year, and we’re confident that Rollo will continue to go from strength to strength.”
Race 13 is a high-energy, premium-quality sweet feed ideal for racehorses requiring maximum energy. It contains highly digestible fibre for a sustained source of slow-release energy, and is rich in complex carbohydrates that can be broken down immediately to provide instant energy. This highly palatable blend of cereal grains, vegetable oil and sugar beet shred is designed to maintain the equine athlete throughout the racing campaign.
Equi-Jewel is a high-fat stabilised rice bran supplement that increases the energy density of a horse’s ration. It helps maintain weight on hard-to-keep horses with increased energy demands such as lactating mares and performance horses. The supplement is a good source of B vitamins and contains added calcium carbonate to ensure the calcium : phosphorus ratio remains balanced. Adding stabilised rice bran to the diet avoids potential digestive upset, which may occur with high grain feeding.
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Bluegrass Supports Team Ireland
Bluegrass Horse Feeds was recently the proud sponsor to a team of top Irish endurance riders at the Home International & Celtic Challenge in 2006, hosted by the Scottish Endurance Riding Club, in Yetholm.
Despite some bad luck in the beginning, team Ireland had an overall successful weekend. Bluegrass provided riders and their assistants with top of the range, stylish rugby shirts, which they proudly wore, displaying the Bluegrass logo.
Friday afternoon, August 10 2006, saw the official start to the weekend’s endurance with a parade of competitors from Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales. A piper led the way from the town Yetholm to Kirk Yetholm, which was followed by the turnout competition. This was won by Scotland. The team vetting followed on Friday evening and unfortunately Ireland lost Billy Kelly when his horse Jasmine trotted up lame. Nonetheless, bright and early on Saturday morning, competitors riding in the 160km, which took place over two days, set off, and among the field was Irelands Pat O'Reilly aboard Swift. The route through the lower Cheviot Hills proved tough going, but Pat and Swift fought through.
Despite a slight mishap in the beginning, Londonderry rider Judith Hyndman and her horse, Ardkill Mo, kept a good steady pace throughout the 80km class. Also competing in this class was Thomas Roche on Jasione, from Wicklow, and Lorraine Sloan on Manning, from Co. Down. All three riders battled throughout and finished with good times.
At 9am the remaining classes commenced. Riding in the 48km class was Gail Baillie on I’m Not Quickly, Alex Wallace riding Chase The Sun and Jason Finlay aboard Freddie.
The two-day 80km class was represented by Cora Keary on Salvia, Karen Keily riding Tambroline Dakota, who is fed on Re-Leve, and Robyn Catterall piloting Charlie Four Socks. Ireland's final member was Jane Bruce from Co. Down riding her dunn Connemara, Holy Smoke.
Gail, Alex and Robyn remained in good humour throughout the competition and showed their crews what fun endurance can be.
Sunday morning came quickly with Pat O'Reilly already on course when Lorraine and Robyn set off for day two of their class. The weather, much like Ireland, saw the arrival of rain, and although both riders were soaked to the bone, they managed to quicken their pace from day one and both were delighted to finish on their optimum times. Unfortunately Cora's horse was vetted out lame at the start of day two leaving Karen to ride the 32km course with Jane; both girls finished safely.
An anxious crowd now gathered to wait for the 160km riders, who, before long, had crossed the Bowmont River and raced for home. Congratulations go to Pat and Swift who finished first to take home The Highland Challenge Cup and win the Scottish Championship. The Celtic Challenge team came second with the Home International Team finishing fourth. It’s with big thanks to the Scottish Endurance Riding Club for providing such a challenging but enjoyable course and a fantastic weekend enjoyed by all.
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Blue Grass Horse Feeds Scottish Training Award
In order to recognise the excellence of Scottish riders, Blue Grass Horse Feeds has joined forces this year with the Riding Clubs in Scotland to present the first ever Blue Grass Training Award.
If you are a horse owner and member of an affiliated riding club in Scotland you are eligible to apply, regardless of which equestrian discipline you practise. Blue Grass is seeking those with a will to learn as strong as their will to win, and people with the requisite pride and passion for both their horse and their sport.
Does this sound like you? If you think you have what it takes to be presented with the first Blue Grass Horse Feeds Training Award, then here’s how to take advantage of the opportunity:
You should send your CV and a 500 word essay including your achievements to date, your plans for the next two years and a little of why you would like to win the Blue Grass Training Award.
You must be an owner/rider and be willing to participate in advertisements and promotions for Blue Grass.
Entries close 30th June 2006
The final will take place in September, and the nine riders lucky enough to be selected will get the chance to participate in an interactive lecture demonstration, which will be presided over by Becky Cullen (née George), an EFI International coach who was short-listed for the Athens Olympics, and has competed both at the European Championships at Punchestown, and at Badminton.
As well as the prestigious award, participants stand to win intensive training from an EFI International coach, clothing for horse and rider, and a years’ supply of Blue Grass horse feed.
There may be only one overall winner, but runners-up won’t go home empty handed, as each of the finalists will receive five bags of feed and a saddle-cloth, and a full dietary analysis of their horse by Blue Grass Horse Feed experts, in consultation with the Kentucky Equine Research Centre.
Bluegrass Horse Feeds is a comprehensive range of equine nutrition products, lent expertise through the company’s affiliation with the world's leading research center in equine nutrition, Kentucky Equine Research (KER). Closer to home, it has formed a distribution partnership with renowned UK feed manufacturer Carrs Billington.
Send your entries to: Blue Grass Riding Club Award, Stilloga Mills, Eglish, Dungannon, County Tyrone, BT70 1LF.
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Hi-Performance for High Cavalier
Victory came to competitor Mandy McConechy and her horse High Cavalier when they debuted together at the Ayr Riding Club Working Hunter and Showing Show, on Sunday the 23rd of April.
During the day, they won both the Novice and Open Working hunter classes of the competition, and thereby qualified for a place at the Scottish & Northern Equestrian Magazine/BHS Scotland Working Hunter Series Final at Blair Castle Horse Trials in August.
Blue Grass Horse Feeds is proud to announce that the winning horse is fed on its 14% Hi-Performance Mix, along with the Kentucky Equine Research-formulated supplement, Equi-Jewel.
“High Cavalier is bounding with energy, but energy I can use,” says Mandy. “14% Hi-Performance Mix has given him a boost without the fizz.” Of Equi-Jewel, Mandy continues: “Being a young horse, it has helped to build his topline. In general, he has never looked so good since being fed on Blue Grass.”
14% Performance Mix is formulated for horses and ponies in medium to hard work, and is also suitable for youngstock undergoing sales preparation. Made from top-quality cereal grains processed for optimal release of nutrients, the mix contains supplemental protein, vitamins and minerals to meet the demands of equine athletes. In addition, the presence of Yea-Sacc1026, a live yeast culture, promotes fibre digestibility.
Equi-Jewel is a high-fat stabilised rice bran supplement that increases the energy density of a horse’s ration. It helps maintain weight on hard-to-keep horses with increased energy demands such as lactating mares and performance horses. The supplement is a good source of B vitamins and contains added calcium carbonate to ensure the calcium : phosphorus ratio remains balanced. Adding stabilised rice bran to the diet avoids potential digestive upset, which may occur with high grain feeding.
Blue Grass Horse Feeds is affiliated with the Kentucky Equine Research Centre, and all products stocked and manufactured benefit from this partnership and the combined years of expert knowledge and experience it brings. All of this nutritional expertise is behind Mandy as she looks forward to Blair Castle in August and this, married with her great technical skill, and choice of feed, surely augurs further success in summer for Mandy, High Cavalier and Blue Grass.
“High Cavalier has a taste for winning now!” agrees Mandy. “And, it’s fair to say, he’s got a taste for Blue Grass feeds, too!”
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Blue Grass Cool ‘N’ Condition Ahead of the Competition
Blue Grass Horse Feeds is once again extremely proud to be associated with a multitude of winning horses and riders, after a successful eventing weekend at Ballindenisk for Michael Ryan and Joseph Murphy, and their horses Master Mexico, Tragumna, Cappacurry Girl, Master Boy and Skibereen Eagle.
Ryan and Murphy are both part of the Cool ‘N’ Condition crowd, feeding their winning horses on the fully balanced non-heating conditioning cube. The pair also benefit from the expert nutritional advice offered by the highly knowledgeable staff at Blue Grass, in conjunction with scientists at the Kentucky Equine Research centre.
It was a good weekend indeed for the two competitors. In the CIC∗ event, Michael Ryan romped home to finish in first position on Master Mexico. He also made another two appearances on Tragumna and Cappacurry Girl, finishing seventh and eighth respectively.
Joseph Murphy achieved an eighth place in the CIC***W event on Skibereen Eagle, and came sixth place in the CIC** event, this time riding Master Boy.
“The performance of my horses at events has been greatly improved since feeding them Cool ‘N’ Condition,” says Michael Ryan. “The difference in their stamina and behaviour is incredible. I wouldn’t want to give them anything else.”
Based on cooked cereal meal, and boasting exceptionally high oil content, Cool ‘N’ Condition is designed to promote show ring condition and shine. High oil helps to produce an excellent coat and increases the energy density of the feed from a slow-releasing, non-heating source, without encouraging the “fizz” normally associated with high-grain feeds.
The inclusion of the high-fat supplement Equi-Jewel is totally unique among conditioning feeds, and includes glycerol and essential fatty acids, elements linked to elastic skin and glossy coats. Research has proven that Equi-Jewel lowers heart rate and lactic acid levels during exercise, therefore helping to promote recovery.
Cool ‘N’ Condition is ideal for all horses in work and competition, and Blue Grass Horse Feeds is extremely happy that it is the feed of choice for so many successful competitors nationwide.
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Cool ‘N’ Condition – Ahead of the Competition
Blue Grass Horse Feeds is proud that Cool ‘N’ Condition is the feed of choice for Dengie Winter League Pony Club finals winner, Jill Gourley.
Jill, a 14 year-old show jumping competitor from Co Tyrone in Ireland, purchased mare Fizzy 18 months ago, and has been feeding her on Cool ‘N’ Condition – as well as benefiting from the expert nutritional advice available from staff at Blue Grass, in conjunction with the Kentucky Equine Research centre.
“I’ve really seen the difference in her with Cool ‘N’ Condition,” says Jill. “I’m thrilled with how Fizzy has jumped since working with Blue Grass.”
Although Jill has been riding since she was ten, the Winter League final was her debut at an event of this type; and an impressive debut it was. From the start of the course, she skilfully cut inside two fences on Steve Martin’s jump-off track to gain an early advantage. Never letting this slip, Jill kept up the tempo on eight year-old Fizzy throughout. This determination resulted in her winning the competition by a remarkable four seconds, and taking the title home to Ireland.
Jill and Fizzy were not the only members of the Irish contingent to do well in the competition; nor was Fizzy the only successful horse fed on Blue Grass feeds. Other commendable competitors – and part of the Cool ‘N’ Condition crowd - were Iveagh branch members Alex Buller, daughter of eventing star Vina, who came first in the warm-up on Just Kidding, and Angela Percy, riding Ambushed, who was one of four to reach the final stages of the 1.15m Open, finishing just behind Lois Hadley on Sound Man Vinnie.
Based on cooked cereal meal, and boasting exceptionally high oil content, Cool ‘N’ Condition is a fully balanced non-heating cube, designed to promote show ring condition and shine. High oil helps increase the energy density of the feed from a slow-releasing, non-heating source, without encouraging the “fizz” normally associated with high-grain feeds – good news for champion horse, Fizzy!
As the Winter League finals prove, Cool ‘N’ Condition is ideal for all horses in work and competition, including performance horses, showing, sales prepping and veterans or hard to keep horses.
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Flying the Flag for Ireland
Building on their success of being the first Northern Irish horse feed company to export horse feed out of Northern Ireland, Bluegrass Horse Feeds is continuing to grow and expand, and has recently sent its third container of feed to Greece.
Bluegrass provides a comprehensive range of premium quality horse feeds and supplements from its Co. Tyrone mill, and is the exclusive Irish team member for Kentucky Equine Research (KER). This prestigious link with KER has helped to cement the company’s relationship with Mr Nick Xidis of Lyidia Ltd, importer of Bluegrass Grass Horse Feed to the Markoupaola Race Track in Greece.
Lyidia Ltd is the largest importer of horse feed in Greece and whilst conducting a search for premium products, discovered Blue Grass Horse Feeds in Ireland through their website at www.bluegrasshorsefeed.com. With seventy horses in training, including his own winning stallion Dounavis, an 8 year old by Petong, Nick soon settled on Blue Grass Horse Feeds as the company’s chosen supplier.
Sales Manager for Bluegrass Horse Feeds, Declan Cullen said: “This further export order marks real recognition for the quality of Bluegrass products, and is also a great honour for the Northern Ireland horse feed industry as a whole.
Other than supplying Lydia Ltd, this is not the first time that Bluegrass products have graced Greek soil either, as they were also privileged to be an official feed supplier to the equestrian teams competing at the Athens Olympics in 2004.
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What a Transformation!
Transform your horse this Spring with the new and improved non-heating Transform Range, designed for horses in medium work. Highly palatable and fully balanced, the Transform range contains YeaSacc1026, Bioplex minerals and quality proteins for efficient muscle function. New Transform is available in both a coarse mix and a cube.
Transform Mix is uniquely formulated using super fibres and oils to give a low sugar (glycaemic) index response for horses in work. This helps to deliver slow release energy, on demand for the equine athlete. Scientists at Kentucky Equine Research, the leading international research group of which Bluegrass is an official team member, have proven the benefits of super fibres (beet pulp shreds) in an equine’s diet. Super fibres aid faster rehydration after exercise when compared to cereal grains, and also provide a non-heating energy source. Transform Mix also contains linseed and vegetable oil, which help to increase stamina and encourage a healthy, shiny coat and all round peak condition. In addition, YeaSacc1026 and Bioplex minerals ensure the maintenance of a healthy digestive system.
Transform Cubes combine increased amounts of digestible fibre, cooked cereal meal and superfibres (soya hulls) with a slower releasing energy source, to provide a fully balanced, non-heating diet for the equine athlete. Transform Cubes are highly palatable, and contain YeaSacc1026 and Bioplex minerals to help increase mineral availability and gut efficiency.
Bluegrass Horse Feeds’ Transform Range is suitable for all levels of competition horses, or sales preparation, and even provides enough energy for racehorses in the early stages of training.
Transform is available from Bluegrass stockists throughout Scotland and Ireland.
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Bring
Colour Back to Your Horse
Bring colour back to your horse with an innovative new feed from
Bluegrass Horse Feeds. Branded in eye-catching bright pink sacks,
new Cool ‘N’ Condition is certain to catch your eye
and make your horse stand out from the crowd.
To celebrate the launch of Cool ‘N’ Condition, log onto www.bluegrasshorsefeed.com/coolncondition to check out the exclusive competition, and you could win a year’s
supply of Bluegrass Horse Feed for one horse.
Based on cooked cereal meal, and boasting an exceptionally high
oil content, Cool ‘N’ Condition is a fully balanced
non-heating cube designed to promote show ring condition and shine.
High oil helps to produce an excellent coat and increases the energy
density of the feed from a slow-releasing, non-heating source, without
encouraging the “fizz” normally associated with high-grain
feeds.
The inclusion of the high-fat supplement Equi-Jewel is totally unique
among conditioning feeds, and includes glycerol and essential fatty
acids, elements linked to elastic skin and glossy coats. Cool ‘N’
Condition also contains Stamm 30, the industry’s premium protein,
vitamin and mineral supplement that delivers the essential nutrients
needed to promote muscle development and help develop topline.
Cool ‘N’ Condition is ideal for all horses in work and
competition, including performance horses, showing, sales prepping
and veterans or hard to keep horses.
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Bluegrass is Growing in Scotland and Ireland
To accommodate continued growth and to support a growing network
of stockists, Bluegrass Horse Feeds has strengthened its sales team
in Northern Ireland with the recruitment of two new members of staff.
Craig
Kileff was born and brought up in Zimbabwe, before the escalating
violence and political unrest forced him to relocate to the UK with
his wife and family. Having previously run his own training yard
just outside Harare, before joining Henry Cecil in Newmarket as
an assistant trainer, Craig brings with him a vast amount of experience
in the Thoroughbred sector. Craig will support existing customers
and help to build new business across North West Ireland.
Sharon Nolan joins Bluegrass with a wealth of experience in the
retail sector, having run Ecclesville Equestrian Store for a number
of years. She will spend her time covering the North East of Ireland
and building Bluegrass’ network of retail outlets.
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Glenhills
Golden Foal
Pictured is a four day old colt foal by Glenhills
Gold out of the Thoroughbred mare Hickys Gin Mill. The foal was
born to International Eventer Becky George’s mare on Thursday
2nd June, the same day that Glenhills Gold started his first international
3-day-event at Dartfield. Glenhills Gold is owned by Mr Stephen
Orr, and stands at the Ballytaggart Stud in Co. Armagh.
Bluegrass is Growing in Greece
Bluegrass
Horse Feeds has recorded a first for the Northern Irish horse feed
industry by being the first Northern Irish company to export horse
feed out of Northern Ireland. Already one of Ireland’s leading
horse feed manufacturers, Bluegrass Horse Feeds is continuing to
grow and expand, and has recently added a new European client to
its customer base.
Bluegrass provides a comprehensive range of premium quality horse
feeds and supplements from its Co. Tyrone mill, and is the exclusive
Irish team member for Kentucky Equine Research (KER). This prestigious
link with KER led Lydia Ltd, a leading horse feed distributor in
Greece ,to contact the Bluegrass sales team via their website, www.bluegrasshorsefeed.com.
The first shipment of feed left the mill on 2nd June bound for Athens,
a 4 week journey by sea. The shipment included 10 tonnes of racehorse
feeds as Lydia Ltd own a number of thoroughbreds in training, as
well as 10 tonnes of leisure feeds such as Cool Mix which will be
sold across Greece.
Sales Manager for Bluegrass Horse Feeds, Declan Cullen said: “This
export order marks real recognition for the quality of the products
Bluegrass produces, and is also a great honour for the Northern
Ireland horse feed industry as a whole. The Greek shipment has led
to further export enquiries from Egypt and the Middle East, and
we intend to continue to expand our international sales. Sometimes
its true what they say – you’re never a prophet in your
own land!”
This is not the first time that Bluegrass products have graced Greek
soil, as they were also privileged to be an official feed supplier
to the equestrian teams competing at the Athens Olympics in 2004.
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Sponsoring Irish Sport
Bluegrass
Horse Feeds has demonstrated its support for top-class equestrian
sport in Ireland by generously sponsoring two prestigious international
equestrian competitions.
Bluegrass was the major title sponsor for the Mournes International
FEI Endurance Event, held on 28th and 29th May. The races, which
included a 160km CEI*** held over two days, and a CEI***120km, started
from Tullybrannigan Equestrian Centre in County Down and took in
the beautiful Mournes countryside and forest parks.
The team at Bluegrass were also delighted to be involved as fence
sponsors of the prestigious Dartfield International Horse Trials,
held in the picturesque grounds of Dartfield Park from 2nd-6th June.
Bluegrass work with scientists at Kentucky Equine Research in USA
to supply a vast range of cutting-edge performance feeds for all
types of competition horses, from endurance to eventing.
Bluegrass 14% Hi-Performance Mix is a top quality, coarse mix that
has been formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of horses
and ponies in medium to hard work. Extra proteins, vitamins and
trace minerals have been added to meet the demands of the performance
animal. Summer Games is a dietary electrolyte and trace mineral
supplement, designed specifically to mimic the composition of sweat
and replace essential electrolytes for performance horses in hard
work.
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Going for Gold
Glenhills
Gold, Ireland’s only coloured eventing stallion, beat a strong
field of 45 to take the Tattersalls Novice One Day Event last weekend.
The young Irish sports horse, who won two pre-novice events in 2004,
will head to his first CCI* at Dartfield International Horse Trials,
where Bluegrass Horse Feeds is a major sponsor.Glenhills Gold is
trained by Becky George and ridden by Declan Cullen of Bluegrass,
and Declan credits much of the stallion’s success to the top
quality Bluegrass performance feeds which the horse has received
since he was a foal. At present Glenhills Gold thrives on 14% Hi-Performance
Mix and Summer Games electrolyte, which has been formulated with
the expertise of scientists at Kentucky Equine Research in the USA.Glenhills
Gold is a six year old stallion by Saracen Hill (TB) who is by Step
Together, who also sired the prolific Irish event horse Don’t
Step Back. Owned by Mr Stephen Orr of Dungannon, Co. Tyrone, Glenhills
Gold is standing at the Ballytaggart Stud, Co. Armagh. He is available
to cover mares by Artificial Insemination (AI) only this season,
with a stud fee of £350. After Dartfield, the ultimate aim
for Glenhills Gold this year will be the World Breeding Championships
at Le Lion D’Angers in October.
For stud enquiries please contact Stephen Orr of Ballytaggart Stud
on 07710 681466.
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The Bluegrass is Always Greener….
The old adage says: “The grass is always greener on the other
side of the fence”, and how true this is of horses who can
always be caught stretching to reach the furthest blade of grass
through the fence, because they always want what they can’t
quite have! This old story rang true when Bluegrass Horse Feeds
recently took a call from Mr Fritzen in Norway.
Mr Fritzen had just returned to Norway from Ireland with Ohio, a
nine year old Dutch Warmblood stallion he had purchased from Cherrymount
Stud.
Initially Mr Fritzen was concerned that Ohio did not settle well
and wasn’t eating up so he phoned Cherrymount Stud for advice.
Staff at Cherrymount explained that the only feed that Ohio would
eat was Equijewel and 12% Cool Cubes from Bluegrass Horse Feeds!
Despairing at how this valuable show-jumping stallion could possibly
survive and certainly perform his duties without these feeds, Mr
Fritzen called Bluegrass Horse Feeds for help.
Declan Cullen of Bluegrass immediately arranged for an urgent shipment
of Cool Cubes and Equijewel to be sent by air to Mr Fritzen’s
Norway home. Equijewel is a high fat heat stabilised rice bran product,
developed by Kentucky Equine Research, which helps to maintain weight
on performance horses with increased energy demands such as working
stallions. Bluegrass’ 12% Cool Cubes are an excellent non-heating
pelleted feed, ideal for horses in light to medium work. As a result
of this unusual enquiry, Bluegrass Horse Feeds have now recruited
Godtfarhesten, a new stockist in Norway who will continue to supply
Ohio with his feed.
Ohio wanted something which he thought he couldn’t have, but
with help from Bluegrass Horse Feeds, he has proven that the Bluegrass
is always greener…!
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