'Dope testing keeps the sport clean'

Robert Walker on finding young horses, dope testing and ex-racehorse rules

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WE have recently returned from Dublin Horse Show, which is undoubtedly one of the highlights of our year. It’s a fun time for us to catch up with Irish friends and the breeders of many of our current horses.

This year, class numbers appeared to be up and the quality of horses was stronger than I have seen for a while. Spectators at the ringside were 10 deep for some classes and the show of young animals was exceptional.

Young horses are specifically aimed at Dublin and if you’re on the hunt for something for the future, this is the place to shop. You don’t necessarily have to look at the top of the lines. The eventing market takes a lot of youngsters over to their side, but if you have a root around you can find something special, even if the animal isn’t quite furnished enough for the show ring on the day.

We purchased a raw young horse who didn’t go through the card on this occasion, but we are thrilled and can’t wait to start working with him.