The making of an Irish hunter

“IN some of the rich grazing counties, as Meath and Roscommon, a large, long blood-horse is reared of considerable value,” wrote English veterinary surgeon William Youatt about the Irish horse in his 1831 book . “He seldom has the elegance of the English horse; he is larger-headed, more leggy, ragged-hipped, angular, yet with great power in the quarters, much depth beneath the knee, stout and hardy, full of fire and courage, and an excellent leaper.” It’s a sentiment that remains nearly two centuries on; an enviable mix of breeding and attitude — plus the treasured experience across Irish country — that makes the Irish hunter the pin-up of many a pack. As David Lalor, Master of the Laois Hunt says: “There are no nicely manicured hedges in Ireland, only hairy, bottomless ditches.” It means Irish horses have to find their feet; they epitomise surefootedness, with a magical