The Irish Draught Horse Breeders Association welcomed equestrians from every part of the country to Mullingar Equestrian Centre on Sunday the 23^rd of February for their annual Stallion parade.

It might have been a chilly day despite the sun shining outdoors, but this didn’t stop members, breeders and horse enthusiasts from gathering in the main arena to admire some of the country’s top Thoroughbred, Irish Sport Horse, Connemara and Irish Draught Stallions on display. Each stallion was asked to walk and trot in hand, followed by an assessment of overall conformation. A few of the stallions that could be seen there included ‘Kinamara Hillview Silver Sparrow’, ‘Cruising for Chics’, ‘Gortfree Lakeside Lad’ and ‘Moylough Bouncer’.

The IDHBA endeavours to promote and protect the national breed in its distinct from. Events like these help traditional Irish horse owners to showcase their stock for breeding. The Stallion parade gives horse breeders the opportunity to see stallions side by side and determine which will provide the most suitable cross for their individual mare. With the public’s support this event will be sure to continue to be a success.

The IDBHA welcomed Bluegrass Horse Feed who were delighted to be one of their sponsors for the Stallion Parade. Vera O’ Callaghan from the Bluegrass Horse Feed team attended the event to give support and to provide nutritional advice to horse owners. The winner of the Bluegrass sponsored prize was Patricia Shortt from Co. Kildare who was delighted to take home some Bluegrass Horse Feed to her own horses. Congratulations Patricia!