HSI Young Handler Regional Championship Winners

The Horse Sport Ireland Young Handler Championship Series got underway on the 29^th June 2019 at the Flavours of Fingal County show. The young handler series aims to promote Breeding and Production amongst the next generation of Irish producers, supporting the development of skills required to present and prepare horses for sale.

The winner of the senior section was Chloe Marks, presenting her Connemara pony ‘Killegar Mist’. Marks competed in the qualifier last year coming second, but unfortunately was not available to compete in the final. She was delighted to come in first this year and is looking forward to the championship.
“I came 2^nd last year in the qualifier here at the Flavours of Fingal but I was unable to make it to the final so I really wanted to come back this year as I really enjoyed it and I’m really looking forward to the final.”

Senior section winner, Chloe Marks & Killegar Mist with judges Phillip Scott & Joanne Quirke. Photo: HSI

The winner of the junior section was Laura Jackson showing her Connemara pony ‘Donode Dusty Ken’. Laura has had her eye on the class since last year and was looking forward to entering the class at this year’s show. She has used the class to develop her showing and handling skills.
“I had seen it in the show schedule last year but didn’t get to attend so when I saw it advertised again online this year I was interested in entering. We did lots of practice on the triangle and really worked on getting our trotting in-hand better.”

Junior section winner, Laura Jackson & Donode Dusty Ken with judges Phillip Scott & Joanne Quirke. Photo: HSI

The judges, Joanne Quirke and Phillip Scott, scored the handlers under the following categories: Control of their horse/pony; Skills in Showing; Courtesy and Sportsmanship; Horse/pony turnout; Handler turnout and Research and knowledge of horses. Quirke and Scott were complementary of the winners skills and series aims:
“We had two worthy winners that are showing great potential. The class is a brilliant introduction to correct showing in-hand and a great idea to help the younger generation prepare for the show ring and sales.”

There are four remaining young handler qualifiers in the series. The top three placings in each section will advance to the final at the National Ploughing Championships 17^th September 2019. Additionally, the senior winner will be awarded a week stay at a top Irish riding and producing yard and the junior winner will receive a family pass to the Horse of the Year Show 2019. Click here to see the dates for the remaining qualifiers and for information packs on how to prepare for the class.