Conthargos, the sire of many top grand prix showjumpers and leading event horses, has been put down aged 19 after developing sudden laminitis. A statement on behalf of his breeder Paul Schockemöhle said unfortunately Conthargos could not be treated by the vets were were called in immediately. His top-performing progeny include Concona, who has had placings at five-star grands prix with Ben Maher, and Conchento PS who has had top grand prix placings with Gregory Wathelet and Luciana Diniz. “One of the very great sires has left the stage far too early,” read the statement.
Witnesses have been asked to come forward after footage of a sulky race on a motorway in Ireland was shared online. The film, apparently taken from a car travelling close behind one of the carts, shows aggressive whipping as the sulkies travel at speed, with another car close behind to the camera’s left. Animal Law Ireland has urged anyone who saw the race to contact the Gardai, and added that, “The M3 between Clonee and Damestown has become a private racetrack for harness racing (sulky racing).”
Joseph Trunkfield riding Cruze in THE LEMIEUX SIX BAR during The London International Horse Show at ExCel in London on the 18 December 2022
(Image credit: HPower / Peter Nixon)
Showumper, trainer and yard owner Joe Trunkfield has discussed the cost-of-living crisis in his exclusive H&H column this week. Joe, who won the six bar at the London International Horse Show last month, spoke of the rising costs across the board and the struggles for yard owners and organisers. “Harder times are certainly ahead and I’ve already noticed conflict between show centres and competitors. Riders are quick to complain about the rising costs of entry fees, hook-ups and stabling while prize money remains the same. I understand the competitors’ struggle but can also see the organisers’ view,” he said. Joe also discusses ways to adapt and suggests a clearer system is needed in the sport between professionals earning a living and the hobby rider.
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Since joining H&H in 2018, Becky has covered a broad range of equestrian news including welfare matters, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings and road safety campaigns. She has also interviewed top riders including Scott Brash, John Whitaker and Ian Stark, to name just a few. Becky’s reporting has taken her to Canada for Spruce Meadows and France for Pau five-star, as well as the Royal Highland and Blair Castle International Horse Trials closer to home. She was also a key part of the remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympics and the Europeans.
