28     MARE or GELDING, 4 years old, capable of carrying over 14st [89kg].
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 137  Tierney Mrs Daphne  BLOOMFIELD BADGER
2nd 134  McElligott, Richard F  PUSHKIN
3rd 136  Rothwell, Mr. Derry  GREENHALL HUNTSMAN
4th 139  Williams, Mr Ian  MARLFIELD
5th 138  Wallace, Mr Trevor  APPLE JACK

29     MARE or GELDING, 4 years old, capable of carrying 12st 7lb [80kg] and not exceeding 14st [89kg].
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 143  Hurst, Adrian  TATTYGARE SOMETHING SPECIAL
2nd 140  Benson & Chapman  BANNVILLE
3rd 144  West, Mr Jonathan  OSTARA
4th 141  Finegan, Mrs Marie Helene  Liquid gold kingdom

30     MARE or GELDING, 4 years old, capable of carrying up to 12st 7lb [80kg]
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 148  Pearson, Ms Yvonne  QUEEN BEE
2nd 151  Wylie, Mrs Lyndsey  UPTOWN GIRL
3rd 149  Smyth, Ms James  BANNVIEW SNAPDRAGON
4th 147  Kerr, Mr Olaf  CASTLEVIEWS GEE APOLLO

31     MARE or GELDING, 4 or 5 years old, not exceeding 158cms.
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 164  Scott, Mr Philip  SCT LE BIJOU DE REVE
2nd 161  P&S Horses  FRENCHFORT LUX GOLD
3rd 158  Louhglin, Mr Patrick J  THE PICKPOCKET
4th 154  Crozier, Miss Alison  Mastermind
5th 153  Corrigan, Mr Willie  THE MASTERS MISTRESS
6th 156  Lambert, Clare  MONATREA ADAM

32     MARE or GELDING, 6 years old and over, not exceeding 158cms.
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 172  Lewis, Mr Michael  CARNSDALE IRISH TIMES
2nd 170  Gibson, Miss Hilary  TOBER GILL CLASSIC FELIX
3rd 173  McMahon, K  INIS FAITH
4th 174  O’Rourke, Ms Sarah  ROCKSTAR ROSIE
5th 175  Rawluk, Mr Daniel  MIRROR MAN
6th 169  Finlay, Miss Kerry  Shanbally Ronaldo

33     MARE or GELDING, 5 years old or over, capable of carrying over 14st [89kg].
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 186  Ormedilla, Miss Victoria  Master Flint
2nd 183  Hagan, Mr John  MR KINGSLEY
3rd 179  Benson & Chapman  KILCLORAN
4th 181  Chauvin, Christine  MY BILLY OCEAN
5th 185  McNamara, Miss Maria  Shanbally Huntsman
6th 180  Carter, Mr Chris  CLOONAN HECTOR

34     MARE or GELDING, 5 years old or over, capable of carrying 12st 7lb [80kg] and not exceeding 14st [89kg]
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 206  Tierney Mrs Daphne  BLOOMFIELD BESPOKE
2nd 203  Ramm, Mrs Vanessa Jane  Testarosso
3rd 202  Producer-Show Horses  ANNAGHMORE HUNTSMAN
4th 195  Hennessy Ruane, Miss Helena  Cloneyhea Clancy
5th 200  McDonnell, Mr Angus  STATESMAN
6th 207  Wallace, Mr Trevor  O BROGAIN

35     MARE or GELDING, 5 years old or over, capable of carrying up to 12st 7lb [80kg].
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 227  Producer-Show Horses  MAN OF HONOUR
2nd 231  Wallace, Mr Trevor  GOLD MINE
3rd 223  O’Gorman, Mrs Janeith  REDWOOD SILVER SLIPPER
4th 213  Glenn, Mrs Suzanne  Ballylimp bob
5th 210  Benson & Chapman  DANDY MAN
6th 208  Ballykelly Sport Horses  BALLYKELLY EMPRESS

S25     CHAMPION PRIZES, £300 and £150- for the Champion and Reserve Champion Hunter. Presented by Creightons of Finaghy.
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
SP 206  Tierney Mrs Daphne  BLOOMFIELD BESPOKE
Res 227  Producer-Show Horses  MAN OF HONOUR

S26     THE ROYAL ULSTER RIFLES PERPETUAL CHALLENGE CUP- for the best Hunter. Presented by Miss A D P McCammon, Holywood, in memory of all ranks of the Regiment who fell in the 1939-45 War.
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
SP 143  Hurst, Adrian  TATTYGARE SOMETHING SPECIAL
Res 148  Pearson, Ms Yvonne  QUEEN BEE

S28     THE PEARL CREIGHTON TROPHY – for the highest placed ridden Hunter horse, bred by exhibitor and continuously owned by the exhibitor up to the time of entry.
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
SP 203  Ramm, Mrs Vanessa Jane  Testarosso

COB Classes
39     COB, MARE or GELDING, [lightweight], 4 years old or over, not exceeding 155cms, capable of carrying up to 14st [89kg]
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 283  McAteer, Mr Samuel A  RANDALSTOWN RAFFLES
2nd 286  Morrow, Robert  MORROWS POACHER JACK
3rd 287  Producer-Show Horses  MR BEAR
4th 276  Gault, Mrs Sharon  THE HUNKY DONKEY
5th 282  Louhglin, Mr Patrick J  HUNTINGTOWN
6th 292  Smyth, Mrs Audrey  VINCENT VAN COB

40     COB, MARE or GELDING, [heavyweight], 4 years old or over, not exceeding 155cms, capable of carrying over 14st [89kg].
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 307  Morrow, Robert  MORROW’S STREET WISE
2nd 311  Smyth, Mrs Audrey  SOCK ET SET
3rd 310  Sloan, Mr Gerard  CHAMPAGNE AGEN
4th 313  Walker, Miss Claire  BURKES BLACK JACK
5th 303  McAteer, Mr Samuel A  RANDALSTOWN REFLECTION
6th 301  Gillespie, Mrs Mandy  ASH HILL SMOOTHIE
41     MAXI COB, MARE or GELDING, 4 years old or over, exceeding 155cms, to be judged as Cobs. To be shown with hogged mane.
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 319  Farley, Miss Allison  BENEDICTION
2nd 314  Anstey, Mrs Lindy  OFF THE ISLAND
3rd 317  Curran, Miss Ruth  BALLYORGAN MISTER DARCY
4th 318  Delaney, Miss Louise  MIGHTY MARTY
5th 322  Wylie, Mrs Lyndsey  TOMMIE TUCKER
6th 323  Zichova, Dagmar  CODY
S30     CHAMPION PRIZES £50 and £25- for the Champion and Reserve Champion Cob. Presented by the Society.
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
SP 283  McAteer, Mr Samuel A  RANDALSTOWN RAFFLES
Res 307  Morrow, Robert  MORROW’S STREET WISE

COLOURED HORSES
42     MARE or GELDING, 4 years old or over, exceeding 148cms, to be ridden by riders who have attained their 16th birthday by 1st January in the current year.
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 335  Robb, Mrs Lynsey  GLENVINE CREG-NY-BAA
2nd 329  Gransha Equestrian Centre  HELEN’S GYPSY
3rd 336  Rodgers, Mrs Meg  TEESHAN’S BLUE
4th 338  Stewart, Miss Nicola  WOODQUARTER WHY NOT
5th 327  Donaldson, Mrs Yvette  ANIMATION
6th 333  Murray, Miss Beth  Kit N Kaboodle

BROODMARES
14     BROOD MARE, [lightweight], thoroughbred and non thoroughbred entered in their respective stud book, certified to foal in 2017 or with foal at foot. All foals to be led.
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 37  Howard, Paula  SLATEQUARRY SASHA
2nd 38  Roche, Mr John  ASSAGART TRAVELLING SOLO
3rd 40  Wafer, Mr Patrick  PARKMORE EVITA
4th 39  Stewart, Mrs Susan  CREWHILL MYSTERY GIRL

17     Filly foal. Progeny or mare in class 14 & 15. All foals to be led [no entry fee].
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 8  Hanna Messrs  MACFIN SWEET MELODY

18     REGISTERED IRISH DRAUGHT MARE, certified to foal in 2017 or with foal at foot. All foals to be led.
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 50  Roche, Mr John  ASAGUARD KINGSTEAD FIONA
2nd 45  Derryronane Stud  STRICTLY COME BOUNCING
3rd 47  Doyle, Mr David  DERRADDA MIST
4th 44  Colhoun, Mr Sean  LADY STARDUST
5th 48  Maguire, Miss Joanne  UIBH FHALIE DUCHESS

19     Pure bred colt or filly in class 18. All foals to be led [no entry fee].
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 50  Roche, Mr John  ASAGUARD KINGSTEAD FIONA
2nd 48  Maguire, Miss Joanne  UIBH FHALIE DUCHESS
3rd 47  Doyle, Mr David  DERRADDA MIST

20     Half bred colt or filly in class 18. All foals to be led [no entry fee].
Prize Cat. No Cat. Name Details
1st 45  Derryronane Stud  STRICTLY COME BOUNCING

Andrew Getty, Knotts Bakery along with Jenny McNeill, RUAS getting ready for the Knotts Young Event Horse Championship at the 2017 Balmoral Show.

The RUAS are delighted to announce that Knotts Bakery is continuing their sponsorship of the Young Event Horse Championship at Balmoral Show 2017.  There will be four year old and five year old classes which aim to identify high calibre horses bred in Ireland with the potential to become top class eventers. The Knotts Bakery Young Event Horse Championship has been received very well at Balmoral Show and provides a recognised platform for breeders and producers to display their quality young stock and compete for the coveted winning titles.

The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) today launched the 149^th Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank. This year’s Show will provide an exciting mix of food, farming excellence and showmanship alongside an exhilarating entertainment schedule from 10^th – 13^th May 2017.

With many new additions to the Show, news of a fourth day is proving the most highly anticipated development. Rhonda Geary, RUAS Operations Director commented “We are very excited to bring our amazing Show offering to a fourth day, on a Saturday, which has been called for, for many years. The four days of the Show will include all that is brilliant about Balmoral, grassroots agriculture alongside a mix of shopping, entertainment and attractions. We are delighted to see a marked increase in many livestock sectors including equine and beef, and are looking forward to a full house in May competing for prestigious Balmoral titles”.

Richard Donnan, Head of Northern Ireland, Ulster Bank, said at the launch “As we mark our 9^th year as principal sponsor of the Balmoral Show, Ulster Bank is proud of its continued partnership with one of the biggest events in Northern Ireland’s calendar. The Balmoral Show gives us the perfect platform to showcase our support for the agri-food industry and we want to let farmers and producers know that our expert teams are here to provide them with real and meaningful help for what matters as they continue to manage risk and seek out new opportunities.

Sponsoring the Show symbolises the key role that Ulster Bank plays in helping the sector develop and succeed – connecting with our customers, engaging with them, and highlighting the significant funding we have available. We look forward to welcoming visitors over the course of the four days and to a very successful Balmoral Show 2017.”

While the Year of Food and Drink has passed, its legacy remains and food is top of the agenda at the Show. The NI Food Pavilion will showcase over 100 local producers with 50 chefs cooking up a storm over the four days. 2017 will see the introduction of a new Health and Fitness Village which will appeal to gym buffs and outdoor adventurers alike.

A superb family day is on offer as food and fitness are served alongside farming, a jam packed entertainment programme and attractions. There will be live robotic milking served up alongside the SPAR Arena which offers a dedicated area for fun family entertainment. The Agri Pavilion provides a platform for businesses, where networking and business will be rife over the four days, complemented by impressive outdoor machinery trade stands.

Audiences around the Main Arena will be captivated by the Kangaroo Kid and his tantalising motorcycle display which will have Show goers watching through their fingers in anticipation. However if you prefer to indulge in retail therapy the Eikon Shopping Village is perfect for spending an afternoon browsing the goodies on offer.

The Downtown Radio Show Stage provides a platform for emerging and established local acts to take to the mike and provide musical entertainment. Animals are also aplenty from prize winning stock and International Show jumpers to the cute and cuddly inhabitants in the Children’s Farm and the Rare Breed Survival Trust stand. The Young Farmer’s Clubs of Ulster make a return as they encapsulate the energy and enthusiasm of the Show in their various activities from Tug of War to Tractor Handling.

The Healthy Horticulture Area at this year’s Balmoral Show will be a crowning glory. A revision of the Garden Village, the area has increased in size and scope. There will be a polytunnel with growing displays of fruit, vegetable and herbs as well as the Horticulture Forum’s ‘Grow Marquee’, housing local growers of apples, strawberries, mushrooms and cut flowers.

The Mighty Spud campaign will be in attendance bringing with them their Couch Potato chill out area as well as sampling freshly cooked produce. Greenmount College students will be planting a number of displays throughout the event and award winning former student Jonathan Gill will be building a feature show garden. Ulster in Bloom will also be creating a floral display giving visitors a sneak peak of some of the colourful exhibits ahead of this year’s competition.

The area will also feature displays of sports turfs, garden design, school gardens, scarecrows, miniature gardens, YFCU floral art and the RSPB, Ulster Wildlife and Ulster Bee Keepers will be in attendance. The Balmoral Park Wildlife Area will also be available to view with its wildflowers and bird boxes providing a tranquil natural area away from the bustle of the Show.

Rhonda concluded saying “We are indebted to our sponsors especially our over arching sponsor Ulster Bank and our five platinum sponsors Lidl, M&S, SPAR, Tesco and ABP.” She also commented that use of public transport was advisable and informed Show goers that details can be found on the Translink website.

Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank takes place at Balmoral Park, Lisburn between Wednesday 10th and Saturday 13th May 2017. Opening times are 9.30am – 6pm (Wed, Fri and Sat) and 9.30am – 8.00pm (Thurs). Admission charges range from £2 to £18 with discounted early bird rates available on our website. Children under 5 years are free when accompanied by an adult.

To keep up to date with the new four day 2017 Balmoral Show, check out our website balmoralshow.co.uk, Facebook: Balmoral Show and Twitter: @balmoralshow.

Rhonda Geary, RUAS Operations Director and Patrick Doody, Sales and Marketing Director, Henderson Group, owners of the SPAR franchise in Northern Ireland are pictured alongside Becky Laidlaw and Natalie Thompson from Stripey Socks Productions who are performing in the SPAR Arena. The dedicated family fun area with run over the three days of the Balmoral Show from 11th-13th May.

The RUAS are delighted that family brand and platinum sponsor SPAR are continuing their sponsorship of the SPAR arena at Balmoral Show 2016.  The SPAR Arena will showcase family entertainment and be a hub of activity as several attractions fill an exciting timetable.

This dedicated family fun area boasts an impressive lineup with a variety of acts including exciting displays from the NI School of Falconry, Tim Crothers demonstrating gun dog skills and the kids favourite Bruce Airhead

Located beside the SPAR Arena will be SPAR’s enjoy local marquee.  The marquee will house a play area for young children and provide show-goers with the opportunity to sample SPAR’s new enjoy local meat range.

The Balmoral Show will also act as the launch pad for a new range of SPAR enjoy local meats.  Working with the award winning Ballymena butchers K&G McAtamney, a hassle free, straight to oven, enjoy local meat range has been selected that’s perfect for the grill or BBQ.

Local chef Paula McIntyre has teamed up with SPAR Northern Ireland to host cookery demonstrations at the SPAR enjoy local marquee at the Balmoral Show each day from 2pm to 3pm.

SPAR’s fully-functioning pop-up store can also be found at the Show this year, situated at the corner of Park Central West and Barbour Avenue, Show where visitors can enjoy fresh sandwiches, coffee, tea and muffins to keep energy levels up over the three day spectacular.

Bronagh Luke, Head of Corporate Marketing at the Henderson Group, owners of the SPAR franchise in Northern Ireland commented;

“SPAR are delighted to have taken ownership of the SPAR arena at Balmoral Show 2016 for a second consecutive year where we have an exciting line up of family fun activity planned.

We very much look forward to welcoming all visitors to the Balmoral Show to our dedicated SPAR Arena, SPAR Pop-up Shop and enjoy local marquee.”

To keep up to date with 2016 Balmoral Show News check out our website www.balmoralshow.co.uk, Facebook: Balmoral Show and Twitter: @balmoralshow.

Boyd Bedding to sponsor shavings, Coloured Horses and SJ1 at Balmoral Show.

Boyd Bedding is set to sponsor at Balmoral Show 2016, providing their Blue Frog wood shavings for all the stables.  In addition they will sponsor the Coloured Horses class and the Bluefrog 6/7 Year Old Championship (SJ1).  Rhonda Geary, RUAS Operations Director commented “We are excited to welcome Boyd Bedding as sponsors at Balmoral Show.  They are a premier bedding company which fits well with our esteemed equestrian section at the Show”.  The SJ1 happens on the opening Wednesday morning of the Show with the Coloured Horses class taking place at 5.15pm that evening.

Speaking on the new sponsorship Stacey Moss, Boyd Bedding, remarked “Boyd Bedding are very excited to be sponsoring the prestigious Balmoral Show.  We look forward to meeting clients both old and new.  It is great to be a part of and be able to promote our Blue Frog wood shavings at such a well recognised Show.”

To keep up to date with 2016 Balmoral Show News check out our website www.balmoralshow.co.uk, Facebook: Balmoral Show and Twitter: @balmoralshow.

Photo Caption: Show jumper Jonathan Smyth looks on as Kathryn Williamson RUAS, welcomes Stacey Moss from Boyd Bedding on board as Balmoral Show sponsor.  Balmoral Show will run from 11^th-13^th May at Balmoral Park.

Knotts bakery sponsor Young Event Horse Class at Balmoral Show

With eight weeks until Balmoral Show, national showjumping qualifiers kick of this Saturday 19th March at Cavan Equestrian Centre. Rhonda Geary, RUAS Operations Director commented “We are looking forward to another year of superb national showjumping, and to welcoming the qualifying combinations to Balmoral Show over the 11th-13th May”.

National competitions are restricted to those who have pre-qualified. Seven horse/athlete combinations will qualify in each category – 5 year old championship, 6/7 year old championship, 1.35m championship and the amateur championship.

The National Showjumping Qualifiers are on the following dates:

Saturday 19th March – Cavan Equestrian Centre
Saturday 2nd April – Iveagh Showjumpers at Meadows Equestrian Centre
Saturday 9th April – Connell Hill Equestrian Centre
Saturday 16th April – Causeway Coast Community Showjumping at the Bowl Arena, Portrush.

Athletes may not qualify more than two horses in any national competition except the amateur class where they may only qualify one horse.

For more information visit www.balmoralshow.co.uk or contact Katy Saunders on 0771 4771 964 or katysji@gmail.com.
The 148th Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank will return to Balmoral Park from Wednesday 11th May until Friday 13th May 2016.1

14     BROOD MARE, [lightweight], thoroughbred and non thoroughbred entered in their respective stud book, certified to foal in 2015 or with foal at foot. All foals to be led.
1st Howard, Paula  SLATEQUARRY SASHA  Ballynahinch
2nd Gibson, Mr Desmond  BALLYCAPPLE BLACKBIRD  Dromara
3rd Robinson, Mr Victor  BALLINGLEN KAYBO  Portadown
4th Wafer, Mr Patrick  PARKMORE EVITA  Carnew
5th Whiteside, Miss Sarah  PISTAZIE  Carryduff

17     Filly foal. Progeny or mare in class 14 & 15. All foals to be led [no entry fee].
1st Wafer, Mr Patrick  PARKMORE EVITA  Carnew
2nd Howard, Paula  SLATEQUARRY SASHA  Ballynahinch

20     Half bred colt or filly in class 18. All foals to be led [no entry fee].
1st Bohan, Mr Padraig  GORTFADDA HEIGH HO  Leitrim

S15     CHAMPION PRIZES, £100 and £50- for the Champion and Reserve Champion non- thoroughbred Brood Mare. Presented by the Society.
SP Howard, Paula  SLATEQUARRY SASHA  Ballynahinch
Res Moffett, Miss Victoria  QUEENS GATE  Newtownards

S17     THE EDITH HARRIS PERPETUAL CHALLENGE TROPHY- for the best non-thoroughbred Brood Mare. Presented by Mr F G Harris, Ballygowan, in memory of his wife.
SP Howard, Paula  SLATEQUARRY SASHA  Ballynahinch
Res Moffett, Miss Victoria  QUEENS GATE  Newtownards

S18     CHAMPION PRIZES, £50 and £25- for the Champion and Reserve Champion registered Irish draught mare. Presented by the Society
SP Gerard, Mr Sweeney  HOLLYHILL CLASSIC  Letterkenny
Res Molloy, Mr Daniel  BALTYDANIEL SILVER QUEEN  Athlone

Yearlings
21     COLT or GELDING, foaled in 2014, thoroughbred and non thoroughbred, entered in their respective stud book, likely to make a high class performer.
1st Daly, Mrs Regina  OVATION  Skibbereen
2nd Kirkpatrick, Mrs Charlotte  CAIRNVIEW REDWOOD GUY  Comber
3rd Gibson, Mr Desmond  KILCOGY  Dromara
4th McCallister, Miss Valerie  SHANAGHAN GENEVA SUNDAY  Lisburn
5th Sossick, Judith  LOUGHVIEW ACE OF DIAMONDS  Randalstown
6th Henry, Sylvia  HOMEGROWN REX  Newtownards

Two Year Olds
23     GELDING, foaled in 2013, thoroughbred and non thoroughbred entered in their respective stud book, likely to make a high class performer.
1st Daly, Mrs Regina  KEAMORE REWARD  Skibbereen
2nd Kirkpatrick, Mrs Charlotte  REDWOOD OSCAR  Comber
3rd Glynn, Mr P J  CRANNAGHMORE DOCK  Athlone
4th Mackey , Mr Desmond  MONEYBROOM FLAMENCO BOY  Lisburn
5th Martin, Mrs Pat  CLASSIC CHOICE  Crossgar
6th Henry, Sylvia  HOMEGROWN HYLUX  Newtownards

24     FILLY, foaled in 2013, thoroughbred and non thoroughbred entered in their respective stud book, likely to make a high class performer.
1st Lyons, Mrs Ann  GREENHALL PUSH BUTTON  Ballynahinch
2nd McCallister, Miss Valerie  KNOCKRATH DOLLY  Lisburn
3rd Sossick, Judith  LOUGHVIEW DIAMOND CORA  Randalstown
4th Brown, Mrs Amelia E  MOCHACCINO  Lisburn
5th Harte, Me Michael  Riverstown
6th Rountree, Mr Craig  KILLYCLOGHAN LADY CHIP  Cootehill

Three Year Old
25     GELDING, [lightweight], foaled in 2012, thoroughbred and non thoroughbred entered in their respective stud book, likely to make a high class performer.
1st Gibson, Mr Desmond  DUCKETTS GROVE  Dromara
2nd Tierney, Mrs Daphne  BLOOMFIELD RUBICON
3rd Kilmastulla Sport Horses  KILMASTULLA NEWMARKET SPARTACUS  Killaloe
4th Dallas, Mr Jim  WINDSOR BOY  Cookstown
5th Martin, Mr Timothy  IMPERIAL CHOICE  Crossgar
6th Kirkpatrick, Mrs Charlotte  REDWOOD LEGACY  Comber

26     GELDING, [medium to heavyweight], foaled in 2012, thoroughbred and non thoroughbred entered in their respective stud book, likely to make a high class performer.
1st Gildea, Patrick  CORRENAGH GINGER LAD  Letterkenny
2nd Kinkead, Mr David  OAKELYS PRINCE OF MOURNE  Comber
3rd Walsh, Mrs Dorothy  DIAMOND CHOICE  Belfast

27     FILLY, foaled in 2012 thoroughbred and non thoroughbred entered in their respective stud book, likely to make a high class performer.
1st Gibson, Mr Desmond  MOONLIGHT SERANADE  Dromara
2nd Dickey, Mr Frank  FSD LOUISIANA  Ballymena

S20     CHAMPION PRIZES, £300 and £150- for the champion and reserve champion young stock animals. Presented by TopSpec.
SP Gibson, Mr Desmond  DUCKETTS GROVE  Dromara
Res Gill, Mr Tiernan  WALK IN THE PARK  Ballina

S21     THE ROYAL ULSTER RIFLES PERPETUAL CHALLENGE CUP- for the best one, two or three years old. Presented by Miss A D P McCammon, Holywood, in memory of all ranks of the Regiment who fell in the 1939-45 War.
SP Gibson, Mr Desmond  DUCKETTS GROVE  Dromara

Res Gill, Mr Tiernan  WALK IN THE PARK  Ballina

S22     CHAMPIONSHIP ROSETTE- for the best yearling. Presented by the Society. The Champion and Reserve Champion yearlings will be eligible to compete in the young stock championship and for the Sir Milne Barbour cup [Special 24] if applicable.
SP Lyons, Mrs Ann  GREENHALL LIQUEUR  Ballynahinch
Res Daly, Mrs Regina  OVATION  Skibbereen

S23     CHAMPIONSHIP ROSETTE- for the best one, two or three years old filly. Presented by TopSpec.
SP Gibson, Mr Desmond  MOONLIGHT SERANADE  Dromara
Res Lyons, Mrs Ann  GREENHALL LIQUEUR  Ballynahinch

S24     THE SIR MILNE BARBOUR PERPETUAL CHALLENGE CUP- for the best animal, bred by exhibitor, in Classes 21-27. Presented by the Society.
SP Lyons, Mrs Ann  GREENHALL LIQUEUR  Ballynahinch

Hunters
28     MARE or GELDING, 4 years old, capable of carrying over 14st [89kg].
1st Byers, Mr Stephen  Foxcatcher  Ballymena
2nd Rothwell, Mr. Derry  GREENHALL WISHING WELL  Arklow

31     MARE or GELDING, 4 or 5 years old, not exceeding 158cms.
1st Kennedy, J & K  EARL OF GRENANE  Rathnew
2nd Ryan, Mr. Kieran  JUSTIN GREY  Oldtown
3rd Moore, Mrs Shirley  BANNVIEW PLAYBOY  Ballynahinch
4th Glenn, Mrs Suzanne  TWIGGY T  Kircubbin
5th McNamara, Mr Tom  SHANBALLY ROYALE  Craughwell

32     MARE or GELDING, 6 years old and over, not exceeding 158cms.
1st Crozier, Miss Alison  COLORADO  Armagh
2nd Corbett, Miss Eirin  CARNSDALE CORBIERE  Ballynahinch
3rd Reddy, Mrs Sylvia  DREAM ON CALYPSO  Comber
4th Scott, Ms Phillipa  LE POLAR BEAR  Ballina
5th Bingham, Mrs Jacklin  IEE FANTASTIC MR FOX  Carrickfergus
6th Regan, Mrs Ann  CHALCEDONY BLUE TOO  Omagh

33     MARE or GELDING, 5 years old or over, capable of carrying over 14st [89kg].
1st Morrow, Robert  MORROWS MAN OF THE MOMENT M
2nd Spence, Mrs Lynn  Dungannon
3rd McMillan, Mrs Caroline  ROCKRIMMON ME O MY  Millisle
4th Riddell, John  BUSHFIELD  Portadown
5th McNamara, Mr Tom  SHANBALLY FIELD OF DREAMS  Craughwell
6th Toner, Mr Brian  COMMANDER WESTFIELD  Castlewellan

34     MARE or GELDING, 5 years old or over, capable of carrying 12st 7lb [80kg] and not exceeding 14st [89kg]
1st Tierney, Mrs Daphne  BLOOMFIELD EXECUTIVE
2nd Macauley, Bridget  Callisto Sunrise  Kilworth
3rd P Scott & Tiernan Gill  THE KINGS SPEECH  Ballina
4th Crozier, Miss Alison  DRAGONS DEN  Armagh
5th Rooney, Miss Maura  Middleburg  Mullingar
6th Wallace, Miss Lyndsey  GOLD MINE  Dromore

35     MARE or GELDING, 5 years old or over, capable of carrying up to 12st 7lb [80kg].
1st Haslett, Miss Laura  Lowhill knockalane cruise  Limavady
2nd Mahony, E.C.  SKYLINE  Oldtown
3rd Pearson, Mrs Yvonne  double take  Comber
4th Blackwood, Lady Perdita  CONUNDRUM  Newtownards
5th Kirkpatrick, Mrs Charlotte  REDWOOD SILVER SLIPPER  Comber
6th Wallace, Miss Lyndsey  BOSWELL BAY  Dromore

S25     CHAMPION PRIZES, £300 and £150- for the Champion and Reserve Champion Hunter. Presented by Creightons of Finaghy.
SP Byers, Mr Stephen  Foxcatcher  Ballymena
Res Crozier, Miss Alison  COLORADO  Armagh

S26     THE ROYAL ULSTER RIFLES PERPETUAL CHALLENGE CUP- for the best Hunter. Presented by Miss A D P McCammon, Holywood, in memory of all ranks of the Regiment who fell in the 1939-45 War.
SP Byers, Mr Stephen  Foxcatcher  Ballymena
Res Johnston, Terry & Sally  ISLAND GEORGE  Portadown

S27     THE SIR MILNE BARBOUR PERPETUAL CHALLENGE CUP- for the best Hunter 4 years old in classes 28-31. Presented by Mrs Elizabeth L M Barbour Paton.
SP Byers, Mr Stephen  Foxcatcher  Ballymena

Res Johnston, Terry & Sally  ISLAND GEORGE  Portadown

S28     THE PEARL CREIGHTON TROPHY – for the highest placed ridden Hunter horse, bred by exhibitor and continuously owned by the exhibitor up to the time of entry.
SP Rothwell, Mr. Derry  GREENHALL WISHING WELL  Arklow

“Rhonda Geary, RUAS along with Niall and Margaret Creighton from Creighton’s of Finaghy announcing their continued sponsorship of the Hunters at Balmoral Show 2015.

International Show Jumping at this year’s Balmoral Show will see some of the top and up-and-coming young riders from the British Isles and across the world, compete head to head.  Countries including Egypt, Canada, Thailand, Great Britain and Ireland, will create a truly international field of show jumpers who are sure to provide three days of nail biting competition.

The Rydale International Speed & Power class is one of six international competitions being held throughout the three days. Promising excitement and expertise this exhilarating competition will be one to watch.  The Rydale sponsored event will be held on Thursday 14^th May at 6pm.

The overall prize fund for the CSI2* BalmoraI International Show Jumping event stands at £38,500.   The Barclay Communications & Bottle Green International Grand Prix is one of the Show’s highlights and the finale of the Show jumping week.  It takes place at 4.15pm on Friday 15^th May.   The winner will take home £7,260!  Ireland’s Alexander Butler will be back to defend his 2013 and 2014 title and will battle it out with other top riders.  Geoff Billington (GB) Dermott Lennon (IRL), Greg Broderick (IRL) and Daniel Coyle (IRL) are just a few of the talented renowned names entered.

In other equestrian news P&O are sponsoring the P&O Arena which will host a variety of competitions from the Young Stock Championship to Dressage demonstrations.  Joanna Walsh, P&O Ferries Marketing & Communications Manager said, “We at P&O Ferries are delighted to sponsor the P&O Arena this year at Balmoral Show. We operate the shortest, fastest and most frequent crossings across the Irish Sea. With sailings from Larne to Troon alongside our sailings to Cairnryan and some great deals available, there has never been a better time to head to Scotland”.

The Pegus Young Event Horse Championship dressage and conformation tests will be held in the P&O Arena on the first evening of the Show.  Speaking on the quality of entrants Declan Cullen, Pegus said “It’s been a fabulous series so far with some fantastic horses, there has been some great traditional breeding lines coming to the fore.  It’s going to be great final at Balmoral.”

To keep up to date with 2015 Balmoral Show news check out our website www.balmoralshow.co.uk, Facebook: Balmoral Show and Twitter: @balmoralshow.

Photo Caption: Joanna Walsh, P&O and Rhonda Geary, RUAS celebrating the new P&O Arena at the 2015 Balmoral Show.

The 34 horses were produced and turned out beautifully, ready and able to take on the challenge the McCusker family set for them.

The four olds started the day followed by the five year olds running through their dressage test under the highly tuned eye of Angeline Nicholson who assessed their athleticism and trainability in the dressage arena.

They moved on to the Conformation phase where Catherine Abbot used her skills and critical judgement to give marks for their type, feet, limbs, movement and training in hand.

The final test was the jumping phase, which was judged by Tom Doherty.  His guide lines were to assess their canter, jumping technique, application to the task, athleticism, balance and finally their gallop.

Each judge gave a ‘suitability and potential’ mark, the scores were then collated by Ivor Mitchell and the successful five in each competition to qualify came out as follows.

Four Olds to Qualify were -

1^st Malcolm AX, sire -Vectra, dam sire -Touchdown, owned by Fiona Wilson and ridden by Jonny Mulligan

2^nd Bonmahon Flash, sire Bonmahon Master Blue, dam sire Ashley Park, owned by Camella McDowell, ridden by Colin Hallidy. (qualified previously at Ravensdale)

3^rd Frenchfort Inspector, sire – Tinarannas Inspector, dam Frenchfort Aldato Lady ridden by Beverley Caves.

4^th Georgio Raco, sire Shannondale Sarco, dam sire – Moot Point, owned and ridden by Emma Jackson.

5^th Wendy Woo, sire – Clover Echo, dam sire Maximum Clearance owned by Brian Clinghan and ridden by Jonny Mulligan.

6^th Harison,  sire – Harlequin du Carel, dams sire – Easy Lift owned by Hugh McCusker, ridden by Colin Hallidy.

Five Year Olds to qualify were –

1^st Hill Patrol, sire -  Spirit House, dam sire Son of Charm, owned by Gina Johnson, ridden by Steven Smith.

2^nd Tullybroom Eddie, sire Clerkenwell, dam sire Clover Hill owned by Janet Hall and ridden by Steven Smith.

3^rd Killadeas, sire -  Hermes De Reve, dam – ISHD Convoy ridden by Beverley Caves.

4^th Shanroe Shadowfax sire – Cavalier Land, dam sire – Curising Ambassador ridden by Catherine Robinson

5^th  Derryinver Girl – sire  Contador, dam sire Ard Balck Cat owned by Smith Bros.  ridden by Steven Smith

The next qualifier is in Wexford Equestrian Centre on Tuesday 28^th April and the last chance to qualify will be at Gransha Equestrian Centre, which will by, weather permitting on the grass on Thursday 30^th April.

Cormac McKervy and Andy Mills from Ulster Bank with RUAS Colin McDonald and six month old Nancy at the launch of the 147th Balmoral Show.

The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) today launched the 147^th Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank.

This year’s Show promises the usual components of food, farming excellence and showmanship alongside an even more exciting entertainment schedule from 13^th -15^th May 2015.

Royal Ulster Agricultural Society, Chief Executive, Colin Mc Donald commented “We were extremely encouraged by the increase in activity at the 2014 Show. We are determined to build on that success. The 2015 Show will be bigger again with more livestock competition, more stands and displays and most importantly more to see, do and enjoy.”

Andy Mills, Regional Director, Business Banking at Ulster Bank, said: “Ulster Bank became the title sponsor of the Balmoral Show in 2009 because we recognise its central importance as a showcase for some of our most important companies. It’s an excellent opportunity to highlight the support we offer local business. The Balmoral Show represents so much that is positive, dynamic and vibrant about Northern Ireland’s agri-businesses and its food and drink sector. We’re looking forward to once again being centrally involved.”

RUAS Chief Executive Colin McDonald, Liz Kelly-Ward and Andy Mills, Regional Director of Business Banking with Ulster Bank with Charlie the horse who is entered into Balmoral Show

Balmoral Show promises to be bigger and better this year as tens of thousands of people flock to Ireland’s largest agri-food event which has increased in size by 10% for 2015.   A superb family day is on offer as food and farming are served alongside a jam packed entertainment programme with many new additions to the line up.

One such development is the new SPAR Arena which is a dedicated area for fun family entertainment.  The packed out timetable will ensure bustling crowds as visitors are educated and entertained with a variety of acts including everything from Circus Workshops to Falconry.

The Sustainable Village is another exciting addition to this year’s Show, providing a showcase of innovative products, materials, ideas and information for anyone interested in harnessing, improving, or even just measuring, energy efficiency, recycling performance and waste management.  It will provide a definitive platform for businesses representing the entire spectrum of the environmental and renewables industry.

As 2016 is announced as Northern Ireland’s Year of Food, Balmoral Show continues to support and provide a platform for local producers with the NI Food Pavilion.  Will Taylor, Glastry Farm and Charlie Cole, Broughgammon Farm both spoke at the launch of their excitement about the upcoming Show where they showcase their own unique local produce.

In an exciting first in Northern Ireland, visitors will be able to watch live robotic milking.  This agricultural spectacle will enthral crowds as Lely and Draynes Farm team up with the RUAS to bring forty cows to the Show, who line up of their own accord to be milked by a Lely Astronaut A4 robotic milking system.

Adrenaline junkies will be captivated by the main arena attraction as Jason Smyth Stunt Show performs daredevil moves throughout the three days.  However if you prefer to indulge in retail therapy the NI Food Pavilion and Shopping Village are perfect for spending an afternoon browsing the plethora of tantalising goodies on offer.

Music will be pumping from the Downtown Radio Show Stage as local acts take to the mike and provide toe-tapping entertainment. Situated next door the garden village will provide a haven for green-fingered enthusiasts.  Animals are also aplenty from prize winning stock to the cute and cuddly inhabitants in the Children’s Farm.  As well as a return this year of the Rare Breed Survival Trust.

The Young Farmer’s Clubs of Ulster make a return as they encapsulate the energy and enthusiasm of the Show in their various activities from Tug of War to Tractor Handling.

Colin McDonald concluded “With so much to see at the Show it’s important to get there in good time and relaxed. I’d encourage everyone to consider public transport such as the coaches which are running directly to Balmoral Park from all parts of Ireland”.

Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank takes place at Balmoral Park, Lisburn between Wednesday 13 and Friday 15 May 2015. Opening times are 9.30am – 8.30pm (Wednesday and Thursday) and 9.30am – 8.00pm (Friday). Admission charges range from £2 to £18 with early bird rates available on our website. Children under 5 years are free when accompanied by an adult.

To keep up to date with 2015 Balmoral Show news check out our website www.balmoralshow.co.uk, Facebook: Balmoral Show and Twitter: @balmoralshow.

Pegus sponsor Young Event Horse Championship

The RUAS are delighted to announce that Pegus are sponsoring the Young Event Horse Championship at Balmoral Show 2015.  There will be four year old and five year old classes which aim to identify high calibre horses bred in Ireland with the potential to become top class eventers.  The Pegus Young Event Horse Championship has been received very well at Balmoral Show and provides a recognised platform for breeders and producers to display their quality young stock and compete for the coveted winning titles.

Declan Cullen, Pegus commented “Pegus Horse Feeds are really pleased to be involved with the 2015 Young Event Horse Championship, it was a great class last year and the crowds flocked around the main area to see the final phase in the morning and the feedback from the riders was very positive. This year we have extended our reach of qualifiers as far was Wexford and it should help attract the best young horses this year from all over Ireland.“

The Pegus sponsored Championship will be held on Wednesday 13^th and Thursday 14^th May with qualifiers being held on the following dates:

• 7^th April – Ravensdale Equestrian Centre
• 14^th April – Mullingar Equestrian Centre
• 21^st April – Meadows Equestrian Centre
• 28^th April – Wexford Equestrian Centre
• 30^th April – Gransha Equestrian Centre

For full details consult the Balmoral Show Prize Schedule which is available online at www.balmoralshow.co.uk.

To keep up to date with 2015 Balmoral Show news check out our website www.balmoralshow.co.uk, Facebook: Balmoral Show and Twitter: @balmoralshow.

To keep up to date with 2015 Balmoral Show News check out our website www.balmoralshow.co.uk, Facebook: Balmoral Show and Twitter: @balmoralshow.