Laois-based equestrian honoured for lifetime service to Irish Draught horse heritage

Eileen Brennan, a leading champion of Irish equestrian heritage, was recently honoured by the Irish Horse Board for her decades-long dedication to preserving and promoting the Irish Draught horse breed, one of Ireland’s most treasured agricultural symbols.

Based at Ballyharmon House in Laois, near the Carlow border, Eileen Brennan has earned widespread recognition as the “Irish Draught doyenne.” Her tireless work has played a vital role in safeguarding this iconic indigenous breed, ensuring it remains an enduring part of Ireland’s rural and equestrian landscape.

Eileen’s involvement in the Irish horse world spans far beyond personal passion. She has held leadership roles in the Carlow Pony Club, the National Ploughing Association, and the Irish Draught Breeders Association. Through these positions, she has driven essential conservation efforts, championed breed promotion, and upheld the traditions and standards that form the foundation of Irish equestrian culture.

Her journey began with the purchase of a foal at the Blessington sales, which she hunted and later bred to produce the RDS winner Mr Mombi. A subsequent acquisition of an Irish Draught filly by Prince Edward further ignited her lifelong passion for the breed.

One of Eileen’s most notable early contributions was leading a conservation project at Emo Court in the mid-2010s. At a time when Irish Draught foal registrations had plummeted to a critical low of fewer than 300, down from 1,250 in 2000, Eileen spearheaded a local working group. Collaborating closely with the Irish Draught Horse Breeders Association, she helped establish a permanent Irish Draught presence at the historic Emo Court. This innovative initiative showcased Irish Draught mares and their foals during the summer months, alongside educational materials highlighting the breed’s cultural and historical significance. The project received high-profile support, including from then Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan, and underscored Eileen’s belief that conservation requires both protecting bloodlines and educating the public.

Beyond conservation, Eileen’s organisational skills have been central to the success of numerous high-profile events, including the Irish Draught Horse Breeders Association National Show, the RDS trade stands, Irish Draught sales, and the IDHBA stallion parade. Her leadership and collaborative approach have made these events welcoming, successful gatherings that sustain the social and professional fabric of Ireland’s horse breeding community.

Eileen’s dedication also extends to youth involvement. She has been deeply involved with the Carlow Pony Club since her daughter Elizabeth joined at eight years old. Eileen cherishes every year with the club and takes great pride in seeing young people enjoy their time with ponies, especially during the popular summer camps.

Her lifetime of service and leadership has earned her a reputation as a “force of nature” within the Irish Draught community. Eileen Brennan’s legacy ensures that future generations will continue to benefit from and appreciate Ireland’s indigenous horse breeding traditions, upholding the highest ideals of heritage preservation, community service, and cultural pride.

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