HSI seeks venue applications for the 2019 Young Handler Championship Series

Following the success of the inaugural Young Handler Championship Series in 2018 Horse Sport Ireland continues the Series in 2019. The aim of the Series is to assist in the development of the skills of young handlers to prepare and present horses for show and sale.

The Economic Contribution of the Sport Horse Industry to the Irish Economy 2017 highlighted that since 2012 the involvement of young breeders (≤ 30yrs) in the sport horse industry has declined from 8.1% to 3.7% in 2016. In 2016 just 0.19% of breeders were less than 20 years of age. The Championship is aimed at encouraging more young breeders/producers to become involved in the industry. It will also provide a unique opportunity for young handlers that are new to the industry to become involved in breeding initiatives and to gain contact and information/education and encourage long term involvement in the breeding industry.

The Championship will run over five qualifiers within the five Irish Horse Board (IHB) regions where possible and will take place between June and August to allow for maximum participation. The top three young handlers from each qualifier will be eligible to compete in the final which takes place at the National Ploughing Championships.

There will be two age categories for the Young Handlers Championship Series:

• Junior: 14 – 18 years
• Senior: 19 – 25 years

HSI are now seeking applications from existing shows and venues interested in hosting a regional qualifier.  The closing date for applications is Friday 17^th May 2019.  For the venue application please download the form HERE.