Flying The Flag

08/07/2025

This is a tough post.
Had more Longford pics stacked up to post yesterday and then the phonecall with the news about Gary Higgins.
The stories we retold last night .. bittersweet but all centring around what a kind-hearted, decent character he was to us. 'Character' can sometimes be a euphemism applied in different ways; for me, in Gary's case it will always be about a larger than a way-too-short life, generous soul, who when I lost Rosy, the irreplacable Rosy 🐴, he immediately offered me her grandaughter for proverbial and absolute buttons.
I don't think anyone can offer us a Gary substitute.
To his family ❤️ - there really are no words, not even Chat GPT could summon up the right words, right now.
Back to the horse world and this is how I'll remember you best; shortly after that big Towerlands win with Fitzy and how you landed in the yard afterwards to tell the full account, still as proud as punch.
Godspeed and thank you.

https://rip.ie/death-notice/gary-higgins-galway-claregalway-599100

06/07/2025

Another successful midlands show for PJ Casey and Raglan Road; another flight home from California by Jordan Kilkenny to present his grandfather Frank's cup at Longford Agricultural Show

06/07/2025

Norm is a little hissy after being squished in the rucksack for his “Millstreet ✅” assignment.
“Longford, Norm?”
Norm considers .. big fan of Bernie Whyte and the Longford atmosphere.
“Peut etre.. mais le Tour de France is on the telly .. I mean, Aachen Grand Prix live streaming. I stay home and do travail.”
🤨
Right, Kevin McGuinness .. you’re up. 🤣

06/07/2025

Where to today? Longford, as per reasons below.
“Sunday night deadline” .. 🤔 Ah, back in the FJ show report era.
Another non-sugarcoated reason why there’s less shows on my list now🤷‍♀️

05/07/2025

Two riders have already won seven-figures prize money at the halfway point of 2025 💰💰💰

After six months of international competition, Susan Finnerty looks at the biggest earners so far in 2025, in The Irish Field this weekend

05/07/2025

04/07/2025

Charleville Agricultural Show - you worked your cover page magic again - this time it's Emily Woods and Coco Carel, the side-saddle champion last Sunday.
Thank you The Irish Field and perfect caption .. just sheer elegance. 👌🏻

04/07/2025

Where To Today? Millstreet Pony and Young Rider Show. Fabulous show/venue, loved it. 👌🏻
And the highlight? Meeting this top NH jockey-turned-showjumper - thanks Davy and Millstreet Horse Show 👌🏻

04/07/2025

It's the Fourth of July and by pure coincidence, a night off from the 👩‍💻 to catch up with a good friend from the J1 summer. Different times.
Perhaps best to just post 10 of WEGNorman's pics from his US travels spreading the word about Normandy. 🤷‍♀️

04/07/2025

Havent I Seen You Somewhere Before (3): A ringside pair, under the watchful eye of the late Tom Casey, then there was three, at Moate Agricultural Show and now 'big sister' Kathleen Curtin is on the other side of the ring. 👌🏻