Jump to content

RISE to stage RALLY at BIRR GAME FAIR


Recommended Posts

And now after a long day of putting the final touches to the planning of what I hope witll be another of the Great Game Fairs of Ireland - my 51st I will leave you with the thought

 

'can we not agree that we are all PRO Countrysports and we have an unrivalled opportunity to demonstrate that to politicians and media at Birr? '

  • Like 2
Link to post
Share on other sites

  • Replies 70
  • Created
  • Last Reply

Top Posters In This Topic

Top Posters In This Topic

Popular Posts

Hi Neil I personally think the Terrier man is in a catch22 situation when it comes to supporting RISE,i would support any fieldsport yet they dont support mine. There was a big turnout of Terrier me

There is a difference between a rally and a demonstration ,the rally will bring all the like minded people to the one place to let them know how the campaign is going,if terrier folk,lurcher folk or a

And now after a long day of putting the final touches to the planning of what I hope witll be another of the Great Game Fairs of Ireland - my 51st I will leave you with the thought   'can we not ag

Im not anti you or rise,but the fact remains that having thousands of people on the dog and gun channel wont make the slightest difference whos going to see it,Those few antis will be on the news at 10 or what ever.How many antis go to a game fair?There fore your preaching to the converted.Any way you are always getting grief on here im not going to add to it. :thumbs:

Link to post
Share on other sites

I am sure theIWTF were very gratefull for your support Albert ...

and you got front page advertising on there website .Well done you a good PR coup for your mag and shows

 

If RISE put them selfs up as the saviour Cuntry Sports they cant pick and chose who they SAVE

JMHO

Link to post
Share on other sites

We need to put the egos and personalities aside and band together on this one. Whether the IWTF has or hasn't got the support of RISE is of no consequence. All of the organisations involved in RISE owe their primary allegiance to their individual members and the promotion and safeguarding of their chosen sport, this doesn't mean that they're against any other country sport. As members of the IWTF we expect that the committee members fight for the interests of terrierwork before all other countrysports but that doesn't mean we can't band together with the other national organisations to support every form of countrysports.

This is a numbers game and nothing else, it's not about trying to get our message across to the antis or about preaching to the converted, it's about amassing the greatest number of countrysports enthusiasts at a rally.Honestly where does anyone think the best chance of that happening will be in the centre of Dublin or at a gamefair in Birr.

With the exception of a few loony left TD's who are dedicated antis, the majority of TD's and politicians couldn't give two hoots either way about hunting.All politicians are only interested in preserving their own cushy numbers, large pay cheques and fat pensions, it's only when these come under treat that they'll take any notice of a lobby group. We need to show them that messing with us is going to cost them large numbers of votes and as a result they'll be joining the dole queues at the next election.

If anyone thinks that a march in Dublin at the same time as the antis is a good idea , please research who and what your going up against before you consider that a good idea.These people would love to have an opportunity to goad some enthusiastic fieldsports supporters into either a physical or verbal confrontation, they are masters of the PR stunt and their PR machine would just chew you up and spit you out.

Link to post
Share on other sites

Im not anti you or rise,but the fact remains that having thousands of people on the dog and gun channel wont make the slightest difference whos going to see it,Those few antis will be on the news at 10 or what ever.How many antis go to a game fair?There fore your preaching to the converted.Any way you are always getting grief on here im not going to add to it. :thumbs:

 

I don't mind any grief I get on this forum. I came on this forum under my own name to take up the challenge that we were treating terrier, lurchers and whippet owners as 'second class' country sports people at our fairs. I had a few well meaning friends who were defending me but I preferrred to put my own points of view. I have responded to the challenge and although I have had several sometimes heated arguments I don't hold grudges and have met many very good genuine people who I now regard as friends.

 

Our objectives in working with RISE on this are simple : 1. To mount one of the largest gatherings of country sports enthusiasts in Ireland in one place and much larger than any anti protest 2. To photograph and televise this ( in broadcast quality) for circulation NOT only to country sports channels and media throughout the world but also to general consumer media and if necessary politicians - in short we will have a good record of numbers post event to use in defence of our sports. AND of course we already have started a general media PR campaign to promote the rally to the general consumer media pre fair. 3. It is not only country sports people who attend the fair but also families who are sympathetic to a country lifestyle. If our sports come under threat these are our natural allies whose opinion we can help form by them talking to the sporting organisations at the fair, seeing what the organisations do, seeing representations of our sports and perhaps 'having a go'.

 

The challenge for us and RISE is to use this opportunity to influence not only those who are at the fair but a much wider audience - everyone who steps into the arena or assembles round the arena on Sunday at 1.30 will have played a significant part in creating a significant PR event for our sports, the record of which can have much greater much longer lasting influence.

 

Albertj

  • Like 1
Link to post
Share on other sites

I am sure theIWTF were very gratefull for your support Albert ...

and you got front page advertising on there website .Well done you a good PR coup for your mag and shows

 

If RISE put them selfs up as the saviour Cuntry Sports they cant pick and chose who they SAVE

JMHO

 

JH

 

You are a cynical guy but you give me too much credit for my PR expertise and my ruthlessness in acquiring publicity!

 

I was asked could the IWTF have a stand at our shows and I and my fellow directors agreed this WITHOUT any pre conditions. I personally had been impressed with the way in which the IWTF had got itself organised and what they had stated as their objectives, so I was happy to give them some modest support and offered them the facility of putting material into the magazine - AGAIN WITHOUT PRE-CONDITIONS and certainly not out of self interest.

 

I consider myself to have been fortunate in my life to have had the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of country sports and through them and the fairs to have met some wonderful people. I am at the time of my life when it gives me pleasure to put something back and help worthy organisations, clubs , events through giving modest sponsorship or acquiring it for them - in fact few if any people/organisations who have approached me have been refused at least a token gesture. This support is often done anonymously without any requirement for the club or individual to aknowledge it - on other occasions , when I am committing my fellow directors money and there are PR benefits to be had, I would of course view it as a business relationship. THIS WAS NOT THE CASE WITH THE IWTF - I made no requests for publicity to them.

 

Albertj

Link to post
Share on other sites

There is a difference between a rally and a demonstration ,the rally will bring all the like minded people to the one place to let them know how the campaign is going,if terrier folk,lurcher folk or anyone else who attends to show their support,that will mean they are represented and if anyone feels they are being left out,there will be no better place to ere your views and put them on the spot and ask why.

 

but if the anti's make one little bit of progress on any field sport it is a building block to go on their next one,so any who think lurcher and terrier work is not being supported by RISE ,turn up in big numbers and let them know they also need us.

  • Like 3
Link to post
Share on other sites

We need to put the egos and personalities aside and band together on this one. Whether the IWTF has or hasn't got the support of RISE is of no consequence. All of the organisations involved in RISE owe their primary allegiance to their individual members and the promotion and safeguarding of their chosen sport, this doesn't mean that they're against any other country sport. As members of the IWTF we expect that the committee members fight for the interests of terrierwork before all other countrysports but that doesn't mean we can't band together with the other national organisations to support every form of countrysports.

This is a numbers game and nothing else, it's not about trying to get our message across to the antis or about preaching to the converted, it's about amassing the greatest number of countrysports enthusiasts at a rally.Honestly where does anyone think the best chance of that happening will be in the centre of Dublin or at a gamefair in Birr.

With the exception of a few loony left TD's who are dedicated antis, the majority of TD's and politicians couldn't give two hoots either way about hunting.All politicians are only interested in preserving their own cushy numbers, large pay cheques and fat pensions, it's only when these come under treat that they'll take any notice of a lobby group. We need to show them that messing with us is going to cost them large numbers of votes and as a result they'll be joining the dole queues at the next election.

If anyone thinks that a march in Dublin at the same time as the antis is a good idea , please research who and what your going up against before you consider that a good idea.These people would love to have an opportunity to goad some enthusiastic fieldsports supporters into either a physical or verbal confrontation, they are masters of the PR stunt and their PR machine would just chew you up and spit you out.

 

Very well put. The PR battle will be won or lost on who can put forward the largest numbers.

Link to post
Share on other sites

We need to put the egos and personalities aside and band together on this one. Whether the IWTF has or hasn't got the support of RISE is of no consequence. All of the organisations involved in RISE owe their primary allegiance to their individual members and the promotion and safeguarding of their chosen sport, this doesn't mean that they're against any other country sport. As members of the IWTF we expect that the committee members fight for the interests of terrierwork before all other countrysports but that doesn't mean we can't band together with the other national organisations to support every form of countrysports.

This is a numbers game and nothing else, it's not about trying to get our message across to the antis or about preaching to the converted, it's about amassing the greatest number of countrysports enthusiasts at a rally.Honestly where does anyone think the best chance of that happening will be in the centre of Dublin or at a gamefair in Birr.

With the exception of a few loony left TD's who are dedicated antis, the majority of TD's and politicians couldn't give two hoots either way about hunting.All politicians are only interested in preserving their own cushy numbers, large pay cheques and fat pensions, it's only when these come under treat that they'll take any notice of a lobby group. We need to show them that messing with us is going to cost them large numbers of votes and as a result they'll be joining the dole queues at the next election.

If anyone thinks that a march in Dublin at the same time as the antis is a good idea , please research who and what your going up against before you consider that a good idea.These people would love to have an opportunity to goad some enthusiastic fieldsports supporters into either a physical or verbal confrontation, they are masters of the PR stunt and their PR machine would just chew you up and spit you out.

 

Very well put. The PR battle will be won or lost on who can put forward the largest numbers.

:laugh: In the uk the most the antis ever put on the street was 1000.While the hunters put up 500000 who won that pr :hmm:
Link to post
Share on other sites

We need to put the egos and personalities aside and band together on this one. Whether the IWTF has or hasn't got the support of RISE is of no consequence. All of the organisations involved in RISE owe their primary allegiance to their individual members and the promotion and safeguarding of their chosen sport, this doesn't mean that they're against any other country sport. As members of the IWTF we expect that the committee members fight for the interests of terrierwork before all other countrysports but that doesn't mean we can't band together with the other national organisations to support every form of countrysports.

This is a numbers game and nothing else, it's not about trying to get our message across to the antis or about preaching to the converted, it's about amassing the greatest number of countrysports enthusiasts at a rally.Honestly where does anyone think the best chance of that happening will be in the centre of Dublin or at a gamefair in Birr.

With the exception of a few loony left TD's who are dedicated antis, the majority of TD's and politicians couldn't give two hoots either way about hunting.All politicians are only interested in preserving their own cushy numbers, large pay cheques and fat pensions, it's only when these come under treat that they'll take any notice of a lobby group. We need to show them that messing with us is going to cost them large numbers of votes and as a result they'll be joining the dole queues at the next election.

If anyone thinks that a march in Dublin at the same time as the antis is a good idea , please research who and what your going up against before you consider that a good idea.These people would love to have an opportunity to goad some enthusiastic fieldsports supporters into either a physical or verbal confrontation, they are masters of the PR stunt and their PR machine would just chew you up and spit you out.

 

Very well put. The PR battle will be won or lost on who can put forward the largest numbers.

:laugh: In the uk the most the antis ever put on the street was 1000.While the hunters put up 500000 who won that pr :hmm:

 

We are not quite so ambitious for Birr but let's give it our best shot!

  • Like 1
Link to post
Share on other sites

The antis don't have to put people on the streets they already have the attention of the public and the politicians,they are in our schools regularly, on our TV screens nightly just look at Brian Mays stunt at the Olympics and their propaganda machine transcends all forms of social media.

In the UK 90% of the population is classed as living in an urban environment some 53 million people so even though 500,000 hunt supporters sounds impressive it doesn't even equate to 1% of the urban population not large enough for politicians to take any notice of hence the ban.

In Ireland the urban / rural split is 60% to 40% so we have the potential of producing a sizable percentage of the population that the politicians would be foolhardy to ignore.

Just in case you think we're battling against some bunch of unwashed, drugged up hippies sitting around a campfire singing folk songs here's a link to one of their websites.http://www.google.ie/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFMQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aran.ie%2F&ei=PI8rUM3sLMa6hAea5IHQDg&usg=AFQjCNGL1BKoZTAZWTxlDax1LqSBuUQwDw&cad=rja

Link to post
Share on other sites

The antis don't have to put people on the streets they already have the attention of the public and the politicians,they are in our schools regularly, on our TV screens nightly just look at Brian Mays stunt at the Olympics and their propaganda machine transcends all forms of social media.

In the UK 90% of the population is classed as living in an urban environment some 53 million people so even though 500,000 hunt supporters sounds impressive it doesn't even equate to 1% of the urban population not large enough for politicians to take any notice of hence the ban.

In Ireland the urban / rural split is 60% to 40% so we have the potential of producing a sizable percentage of the population that the politicians would be foolhardy to ignore.

Just in case you think we're battling against some bunch of unwashed, drugged up hippies sitting around a campfire singing folk songs here's a link to one of their websites.http://www.google.ie...BuUQwDw&cad=rja

 

Yes if one also looks at the ICAB site they too are quite professional. They ran a co-ordinated campaign against our magazine and then followed our example by putting up a FREE to READ online magazine. As you say these groups are now highly professional at PR & marketing and use social media and personalities well but most of all they are well co-ordinated, highly focused and motivated and keep any disagreements private! If they read these forums as they most defintely do they must be delighted to see the spats that emerge.

 

I hope the majority of country sports people will put any petty differences of opinion behind them and make the rally at Birr one of the largest pro countrysports statements of support ever seen in Ireland.

Link to post
Share on other sites

A cynic ,I think not .Some one who loves their country sports definetly YES

 

Well that at last is something we can agree on.

 

I don't know what I have done to offend you but as you said I don't know anything about you other than your alias so I don't know if we have ever met and/or whether I may have offended you unintentially somewhere along the line by something I have said or written.

 

You have ascribed motivations of self interest to my desire to facilitate RISE deliver a potentially very important demonstration of strength of numbers and on my support for the IWTF in an important formative period. This is simply not true - I have sought no benefits from the limited assistance I gave to both. If you knew me and how much I have put into the promotion and defence of country sports over 40 odd years you would know that money is the least of my motivations in life and most particularly in terms of my involvement in country sports.

 

I hope we can meet somewhere along the line and perhaps we may have more of a meeting of minds.

 

Albertj

Link to post
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

Loading...
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    No registered users viewing this page.

  • Similar Content

    • By appleblossom
      ***See Below I have started my Dog Show list for 2026.
      PM me with your dates ASAP for  your dog shows in 2026  to avoid disappointment ***
      List of Dog Shows for 2026 so far.
      *Sunday 8th March 2026 ( Stephanie O Connor )
      Carlow Lurcher/Terrier/ Whippet Club Dog Show and Raceday
      *Saturday 16th May 
      South  Tyrone Foxhounds ( Hanna)
      *Saturday 25th July 2026 ( Anthony Taggart)
      N.W.L.T.C  Dog show and Race day
      Margaret Mc Stay
    • By appleblossom
      The Mc Grath  Racing Club Dog Show and Race Day, Sunday 31st August 25
      **(Representing Mr Aj Titterington of The 5 Nations  and The Great Game Fairs of Ireland)**
      It has been said Carlow is one of the oldest counties in Ireland. Within this beautiful County traditionally rural and near the M9 motorway lies the village of Ballinabrannagh. This was the venue for The Mc Grath Racing Club Dog Show and Race Day Sunday 31stTH August 25.
      As it was 5 Nations day,Ballinabrannagh was buzzing with excitement. It was here in the late summer weather sporting enthusiasts from north and south of the border came to view the challenges of the sporting elite, and to partake in the Country sports events listed on the day.
      As we approached the venue, it was very evident the popularity of this now annual show and the footfall far bigger than last year, all parking places were  filling up fast. On entering the field, I met so many patrons who I would have met at the Great Game Fairs of Ireland  in Shanes Castle. At this point  the memories came flooding back and what happy memories they were, probably never to return. The weather was very windy all day with some heavy showers in between.  
      The show rings were well spaced out and the racetrack was in immaculate condition despite the heavy rain during the week.  
      The entire McGrath family was out in strength on Sunday. I would guess all 15 children of the household and all helping out in every way they could.
      It was nice to see all our little boys and girls in the childrens handling class showing off their faithful Canine breeds. We must not forget that these little people are our Country Sportsmen and women and show organisers of to morrow. 
      Ged Donagh paid a lovely tribute to  5 young sports girls and boys that have attended and showed their dogs at our shows in the summer months in 2025 and previous. These 5 young people  are now our  Young Sports Personalities of the year. They are Clodagh Gentle/Ian McGrath /Ivy Roche/Charlie Mc Caughey and TJ Duggan. Each young person in the group received a nice trophy sponsored by Ged himself for all their hard work in the ring. Ged does this now annually.What a lovely thought and accolade to these Young Sports People. 
      Next on the schedule was the Ross Rice racing cup in memory of Ross who passed away after an accident a few years ago. It was lovely to see all Rosses mates there to support and honour and keep the memory of their treasured friend alive. There were cheers all around the field when Jaimie O Connors winning dog romped home to victory for the 2nd time around. He was last years winner also. Many thanks to Ged Donagh for keeping this young mans memory alive through this race and sponsoring this event.
      Time passes so quickly, very soon it was Race and Show time. 
      Racing Results, Curtesy of Biddy Mc Grath
      Master McGrath Final 
      Winner
      Adam McGrath with Johnny 
      Reserve 
      Joyce Scott with Guss 
      Mick the Miller Final
      Ged Donagh with Tess
      Reserve 
      Ned Kane with Gunner 
      All Ireland Racing 
      Whippet
      James Mullen with Junior 
      James Mullen with Toby
      KC Whippet 
      Susan with Miss Money Penny 
      Fred Gentle with Snake 
      Under 21s 
      Lynzi Gardiner Magill with Bill
      Lynzi Gardiner Magill with Ollie 
      Under 22s 
      Lynzi Gardiner Magill with Venus 
      Lynzi Gardiner Magill with Ruby
      Under 23's Traditional Lurcher 
      Ricky with Lady 
      MJ with Ruby
      Under 23 elite 
      Vanessa Lynn with Arthur 
      Lynzi Gardiner Magill with Lady 
      Under 24 smooth 
      Lynzi Gardiner Magill with Jack
      Lynzi Gardiner Magill with Fletcher 
      Under 24 Hairy 
      Rebecca Saunderson with Susan 
      Bull Cross Heavy 
      Joyce Scott with Mabel
      Glen with Nova 
      Bull Cross Light 
      Yapper Hayes with Lady 
      Like with Myla 
      Greyhound 
      Barry Holland with Hot Hunter 
      Stephanie O Connor with Holly 
      Ross Rice Cup
      Jamie O Connor with Penny 
      Puppy 
      Ricky with Big Girl 
      Kirsty Smyth with Sika 
      Over Hairy 
      Lynzi Gardiner Magill with Sugar 
      Ged Donagh with Shea
      Fastest Young Slipper
      John Reilly
      5 Nations Showing Results
      5 Nations Champion Whippets
      Fred Gentle with Susie
      Reserve 
      Sophie Leonard with Junior
      5 Nations Champion Lurcher
      Lynzi Gardiner Magill  with Sugar
      Reserve
      Ged Donagh with Shea
      5 Nations Champion Terrier
      Rocco Cairns with Paddy
      Reserve
      Paddy Gilmore with Hanns
      ALL IRELAND SHOWING 
      ALL Ireland Champion Lurcher
      Jed Donagh with Stig
      Reserve
      Lisa Beggs with Rossa
      ALL Ireland Champion Whippet
      Sophie Leonard with Junior
      Reserve 
      Clodagh Gentle with Nala
      ALL Ireland Champion Terrier
      David O Brien with Grip
      ALL Ireland Champion Strong Dog
      Johnny with Winnie
      Reserve
      Ged Donagh with Brock
      Overall All Ireland Champion and Best in Show
      David O Brien with Grip
      Reserve
      Sophie Leonard with Junior
      Overall All Ireland Champion Puppy
      Harry Roche with Reba
      Reserve
      Joyce Scott with Ernie
      Finally, On Behalf of the Mc Grath Racing Club many thanks to the brilliant Judges on the day 
      Child Handling : Karla Wilson
      **All Ireland Showing Judges **
      *Whippets: 
      Karla Wilson
      *Lurchers :  
      Paddy Gibson
      *Terriers    : 
      Niall O Cloghan
      *Strong Dogs : 
      Franky Corrigan  
      **5 Nations Judges
      *Whippets : 
      Margaret Mc Stay
      Chontelle McMeekin
      *Lurchers:
      Maurice McDowell
      Paddy McGrath
      *Terriers
      Marty Black
      Jack McGrath
      Your judging skills were honest, efficient and impeccable, and many thanks for that. 
      And Finally, Finally, may I take this opportunity to thank the Mc Grath Family for another brilliant show and race day on Sunday. The saying is that behind every good man is a good woman and Biddy Mc Grath you definately fit that picture. Biddy, we would have been lost without you. Along with Michael and Jack, you put a lot of hard work in behind the scenes to make this day most enjoyable for everyone. 
      Your whole family was so welcoming, and made us all feel at ease in your native Co Carlow. Thank you so much for the lovely presentation to us on Sunday, it was so unexpected and very much appreciated.
      As the end of the day was approaching, it was time to say good bye to Balinabrannagh for another year and be on the road again to Co Armagh and the place we call home. 
      Many thanks Mc Grath Racing Club for the memories, and God willing, we will all be back again in 2026 for another great window in Country Sports.
      To we meet again God Bless.
       
      Margaret Mc Stay
       
       
    • By appleblossom
      THE GLENSHANE WORKING DOG CHARITY SHOW AND RACEDAY SUNDAY 24th AUGUST 25 ( In Aid of The Fort Centre RDA Maghera )
      Maghera is a small town at the foot of the Glenshane Pass and lends itself to some of the North coasts most beautiful panoramic views. Situated 2 miles outside Maghera is Tobermore Golf Club. This was the venue for The Glenshane Charity Working Dog Show and Raceday Sunday 24th August 25. And what a day and venue that was.  
      Safe to say this was one of the best venues I have been to this year.  The grass was immaculately cut, rings well spaced out and a well groomed race course.
      As this show was run for a very special charity, the gods were on our side as the sun shone in abundance all day. As the morning progressed into noon, cars and trailers with dogs in tow filled the field to capacity. The craic and the banter was in full swing amongst the huntsmen and women on the day. Our good Canine folk had only one thing in mind. Out for a great Sporting day  in Glenshane before the work in the field begins.
      The wee people were there enjoying the day in the play trailer, bouncing around to their hearts delight. Some very tired children on Sunday night. Paul Boyd was there with his Country Sports stand, as was the hot food, tea and coffee van.
      Time passes so quickly and very soon it was show time.
       Here are the Showing Results
      Showing Results
      *OVERALL CHAMPION PUP
      JESSICA - LEE CORRIGAN WITH BEAR
      RESERVE
      CHARLIE Mc CAUGHEY WITH 
      DIXIE
      *OVERALL CHAMPION PAIRS
      JOHN WILLIAMS WITH LIGHTENING AND SASS
      RESERVE
      CLODAGH GENTLE WITH SNAKE AND SUSIE
      *OVERALL CHAMPION LURCHER
      SHANE BURNS WITH BUSTER
      RESERVE
      MORGAN McNULTY WITH CLYDE
      *OVERALL CHAMPION WHIPPET
      SUSAN McCANN WITH MISS MONEYPENNY
      RESERVE
      JAMES MULLEN WITH MAX
      *OVERALL CHAMPION TERRIER
      ROCCO CAIRNS WITH PADDY
      RESERVE
      GED DONAGH WITH THUG
      *OVERALL CHAMPION STRONG DOG
      LASZLO PUSZTAI WITH BLACK DIAMOND
      ***OVERALL CHAMPION AND BEST IN SHOW***
      LASZLO PUSZTAI WITH BLACK DIAMOND
      RESERVE
      ROCCO CAIRNS WITH PADDY
      Racing Results
      Terriers
      Jack with Millie
      Big Dogs
      1/ Jack Townsend with Zara
      2/ John Williams with Lightening
      Mick The Millar /Jimmy Scott Memorial Cup
      1/ Ged Donagh with Tess
      2/ Harry Roche with Ria
      Under 21s
      1/ Rose McCoy with Arlo
      2/ Joyce Scott with Nettle
      Under 22s
      1/ Rose McCoy with Texas
      2/ Rose McCoy with Guicci
      Under 23s Elite
      1/ Vanessa Lynn with Arthur
      2/ Jack with Missy
      Under 24s Smooth
      1/ Rose McCoy with Prada
      Under 24s Hairy
      1/ Harry Roche with Zola
      Heavy Bull Cross 
      1/ Charlene Rafferty with Jester
      2/ Barry Holland with Sally
      Light Bull Cross 
      1/ John Williams with Sass 
      2/ Nevaeh Marly
      Big Pups
      1/ Kirsty Smyth with Sika
      2/ Katelyn Mc Kenzie with Zeus
      Small Pups
      1/ Clodagh Gentle with Dash
      Whippets
      1/ James Mullen with Toby
      2/ James Mullen with Junior
      Greyhounds
      1/ Billy Harpur with Tilly
      2/ Barry Holland with Hot Hunter
      Congratulations to all above winners
      And Finally, may I take this opportunity on behalf of the Glenshane team to thank the judges on the day.
      Childrens Handling Class and Pets :
      Chloe Taggart
      Lurchers : Daithi O Faolain
      Whippets : Patsy McCoy
      Terriers: Philip Mackin
      Strong Dogs : Mark Mc Callion
      The Racing was run and organised by the McGrath Lurcher Racing Club.  Teamwork is the success of this club and as usual everything went like clockwork. Michael/Jack and Biddy your efficiency and dedication as usual is beyond reproach and thank you for that.
      And Finally, Finally on this occasion it is very hard to put into words what the show organisers Joanne and Paul Owens have come through over these last 11 years and it still continues today.  
      Cathan, their son was born with a rare liver disease called Biliary Atresia and was only diagnosed when he was 6 weeks old and had surgery at 6.5 weeks At the age of 7 years Cathan received his gift of life from Birmingham Childrens hospital, with a liver transplant and is 4 years post liver transplant on 23rd August.
      It would take a tear from a stone listing to these parents briefly telling me the heartache and trauma they came through to try to keep Cathan alive and to get him to where he is to day. 
      All proceeds from this charity dog show will go to Fort Centre RDA Maghera. This show is also a celebration of Cathans life and how far and the progress he has made in his young life so far.   
      Joanne/Paul/Cliona/Tiarna/Sharon/Nicola and your back up team, your show was well organised and a credit to all good sporting shows and a great window for our Country Sports. It was evident on the day a lot of hard work went on behind the scenes to make this show so enjoyable for everybody. This show is now an annual event and for a very special reason close to Paul and Joannes heart.
      ** Just a wee foot note. As many of you know Cathan had a we set back on Sunday at the show resulting in him being hospitalised. The good news is he is out of hospital and making good  progress and will be back to full health and of to school very soon.** 
      Glenshane Team, Thank you for Sunday. To we meet again take care and God Bless
      Margaret Mc Stay
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
    • By appleblossom
      CURTESY OF THE McGRATH RACING CLUB
      THE 5 NATIONS CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS /ALL IRELAND RACING AND SHOWING/MICK THE MILLAR AND MASTER Mc GRATH
      REPRESENTING THE GREAT GAME FAIRS  OF IRELAND
      THIS SUNDAY 31st AUGUST 2025
      HI FOLKS, 
      JUST A FEW DAYS TO GO TO OUR BIG DOG SHOW AND RACEDAY IN CARLOW FOR THE 5NATIONS /ALL IRELAND RACING AND SHOWING/MICK THE MILLAR AND MASTER McGRATH
      FOR YOUR SAT NAVS:
      Ballinabranagh
      Carlow
      Co Carlow
      R93 K573
      HERE IS THE SCHEDULE FOR THE DAY
      Gates Open 9.00am
      1/ Entries for racing will be taken at    10.00am
      2/ Mick the Millar and Master McGrath will follow after entries taken
      3/ 5 Nations will be next on the schedule
      4/ All Ireland showing
      5/ All Ireland Racing will commence after showing finishes.
      ****The Mc Grath Lurcher Racing Club is really looking forward to seeing you all there ***
       
       
       
       
       
    • By appleblossom
      The Tally Ho Working Dog Show Saturday 16th August 2025
      As I looked out the window early Saturday morning the sun was just breaking through the trees, with a small welcoming breeze filtering over the dog pens. Barking out at us was the usual Whippet chorus signalling the day had arrived for the Tally Ho Working Dog Show and Raceday at Nutts Corner. And what a show that was.
      I firmly believe nature plays a big part in telling our faithful Canine friends the end of the showing season is on the horizon, and their weekly excursions to the show ring and race track is coming to an end. 
      We arrived in the field around 10.00am and were greeted by the show organiser Peter Morgan who had reserved a parking place for us right beside the whippet ring. What a thoughtful man with a heart full of kindness.
      By noon time the field was filling up with dogs and families all out for a good days racing and showing. The venue was superb, with rings were well spaced out and the racetrack in immaculate condition, and all put up and hammered in by Peter Morgan himself. Four toilets were well situated around the site and plenty of ringside parking was provided. 
      Paul Boyd as was Marty Black there with all the hunting gear,collars etc you could wish for the coming season.A great variety for our Country Sports fraternity. A burger van was in full swing with some delicious burgers and chips and was not long to the smell of good hot food was wafting its appetizing smells all over the place.
      I can honestly say it was a childrens paradise at the Tally Ho Show on Saturday. The laughter and enjoyment coming from the bouncy castle was unreal. When it came to the childrens handling class, there were 43 children in the ring. The winners got a beautiful trophy and rosette and each child in the ring got a medal and a big bag of goodies.
      Very soon it was Raffle time and boy was there some variety of prizes on that table. I never have seen such an array of prizes in a raffle at any show this year.  The raffle generated so much excitement and fun around the field as it progressed. Many happy punters went home with some lovely prizes.
      Time waits for no one and very soon it was Racing and Showing time. Here are the Results.
      Racing Results
      Lurcher Pup
      Aiden Dunne with Lass
      Whippet Pup 
      Clodagh Gentle with Dash
      Whippet Dog 
      James Mullen with Junior
      Whippet Bitch 
      Clodagh Gentle with Suzie
      Under 21 
      Bridget Carthy with Speedy
      Under 23 
      Kirby – Jane Mc Kibben with Sheeba
      Under 24 
      Colin Tucker with Fletcher
      Over 24 
      Jake Parke with Storm
      Hairy Under 24 
      Jed Donagh with Tess
      Hairy Over 24 (Mick the Miller) 
      Jed Donagh with Tess 
      Bull X Heavy 
      Joyce Scott with Mabel
      Bull X Light 
      Joyce Scott with Axle
      Terrier 
      Jed Donagh with Spike
      SHOWING RESULTS 
      PETS
      OVERALL CHAMPION PET
      CLODAGH GENTLE WITH DASH   
      RESERVE :
      NIALL O CLOGHAN JNR WITH BRIA
      PUPS
      OVERALL CHAMPION PUP
      CHARLIE McCAUGHEY WITH DIXIE
      RESERVE
      CLODAGH GENTLE WITH DASH
      LURCHERS
      OVERALL CHAMPION LURCHER
       TJ DUGGAN WITH FRANK
      RESERVE
      LEIGH THOMPSON WITH SCOOBY DOO
      TERRIERS
      OVERALL CHAMPION TERRIER
      PADDY GILMORE WITH HANNS
      RESERVE
      NIALL O CLOGHAN BUDDY
      WHIPPETS
      OVERALL CHAMPION WHIPPET
      SUSAN McCANN WITH PENNY
      RESERVE
      SOPHIE LEONARD WITH JUNIOR
      STRONG DOGS
      WORKING STRONG DOGS
      GED DONAGH WITH BROCK
      RESERVE
      LASZLO PUSZTAI WITH DIAMOND
      BULLIES
      OVERALL CHAMPION BULLIE
      PAULA BEGGS WITH PACO
      RESERVE
      GAIL ROSS WITH BERT
      PAIRS
      OVERALL CHAMPION PAIRS
      FRED GENTLE WITH SNAKE AND SUSIE
      RESERVE
      AIDY TOAL WITH THUNDER AND SCAR
      ***OVERALL CHAMPION AND BEST IN SHOW***
      GED DONAGH WITH BROCK
      RESERVE
      PAULA BEGGS WITH PACO
      ***TALLY HO NORTHERN  IRELAND CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS***
      SUSAN McCANN WITH PENNY
      Congratulations to all above winners
      And Finally, may I take this opportunity on behalf of the Tally Ho Working Dog Show to thank the judges on the day for a job well done.
      Childrens Handling Class  
      Margaret Mc Stay
      Ladies and Gents Handling Class
      Margaret Mc Stay
      Pets
      Michelle Darby
      Whippets 
      James Mullen
      Lurchers 
      Jonathan Kirwan
      Terriers  
      Sam Kirwan
      Strong Dogs
      Chontelle Mc Meekin 
      Bullies
      Carla Mc Donnell
      Tally Ho Northern Ireland Champions of Champions
      Peter Morgan
      Judging is not an easy job, but the judges were all consistent and fair  
      A Big thank you to the Racing team Matt Lee/Joanna Relf Lee and Matthew Lee for running the racing on the day so efficiently. Your experience and input is invaluable and of this we are extremely grateful. 
      There were 3 very willing young people helping Peter out on Saturday. Conor Creagh/Callum Jones and Kerry Ann Hughes you all done a great job and everything ran like clockwork. 
      As usual it was evident a lot of hard work and sleepless nights was put into organising this top show and all Peters shows in the past to make them so successful, and all along the way Peter has done this single handed.
      And Finally, Finally it is with a heavy heart I am writing this and hoping it will not come to fruition.  Peter has said to me this is the last show he will run. But  with hope in my heart I am hoping he might change his mind. 
      Peter you have given 20K plus to charity over the years, encouraged our young country men and women to carry on the tradition in the ring and in the field, and given Country Sports a great window through your shows over the years. I have known you now through country sports for over 20-25 years and probably longer, and all through that time you have never faltered away from the Canine world. 
      The prizes, the cups, the childrens handling class and bouncy castles at your shows are second to none. The time and money you put into your shows for our enjoyment is a credit to you.
      I will conclude for now Peter hoping at some time down the road, maybe you will change your mind and have another show in 2026. It was nice to be your friend through the ups and downs in the Country Sports world. 
      God Bless to we meet again.
       Margaret Mc Stay
       

×
×
  • Create New...