Show jumping rider, Dean Wilson caught up with Bluegrass Horse Feeds sales representative Conor Sheridan as part of the Bluegrass behind the success series.

Dean started riding when he was eight and progressed into hunting and pony club, but after visiting Dublin Horse Show he quickly turned to show jumping. In 2011, Dean travelled to Germany to work for Denis Lynch to help further his knowledge and improve his attention to detail as well as riding and management.

“Before setting up my own private yard in north Kilkenny, I spent some time with Cian O'Connor which was a worthwhile experience. My main focus is buying, selling and producing young horses. Turnout and appearance are a big factor for me and it's why I use Bluegrass Horse Feed products. I like horses to be in good condition, happy healthy animals. I use a wide variety from Nice N Easy, Stud Mix, Competition Cubes, Garlic Chaff and the Turmash depending on the horse’s needs” 

1) What’s your favourite horse you’ve ridden?

All Star 5 or Lantinus

2) What horse would you like to have in your stables?

 Armitage Boy

3) If you weren’t a showjumper what would you like to be?

 Engineering 

4) Favourite horseshow?

Dublin Horse Show or Aachen

5) Do you prefer the Greatest Showman or Les Mis soundtrack?

 Greatest showman for sure. They’re both great, but the Greatest Showman is a bit more like me! I have to say I see a lot of myself in Hugh Jackman

6) What’s the one thing in your tack room you can’t be without?

My bit collection 

7) Have you any routines or habits before you go in the ring?

 I don't like to over jump in the warm-up, you do your homework at home. I make sure the horse is warm, relaxed and soft. 

8) Do you have any other hobbies or sport interests?

Horse racing or rugby

9) Name one competition that you really want to win?

National Champion or Hickstead Derby 

10) What’s your favourite Bluegrass Horse Feed Product?

 I really like the Turmash as a starter for new horses that come in, they love it. I also give it to my two older horses as an all rounder for gastric health and joint support. 

11) When did you start riding?

I was 8 at the local riding school, which is now closed but I'm still involved with them breeding young stock. 

12) First pony’s name?

 Lucy a dun 13.2 fireball. 

13) What’s your proudest achievement so far?

 I am very proud of the yard we have built from scratch with my family. I won the willie tough memorial cup while I was in England and I ended up riding for his son Emerson afterwards. Otherwise my horses normally get sold before they are competitive. 

14) What’s your favourite training exercise?

 I like a variety for horses minds so that they are not in the arena everyday. But canter poles, small bounces or grids to loosen the horses backs and balance them up. 

15) One piece of advice you’d give to young riders?

Never give up know matter how tough it seems because it will get better if you keep plugging away.