The 2025 Baileys Horse Feeds Flexi Eventing League, held at The Meadows Equestrian Centre, concluded with outstanding performances, showcasing the versatility of thoroughbred horses in eventing. Over the seven-week series, nearly 600 horse-and-rider combinations took part in more than 2,000 activities, making this year’s competition one of the most exciting to date.
A standout performer in the league was Bestman Bryan, a five-year-old homebred thoroughbred gelding by the German stallion Lauro. Owned and bred by Vina Buller, and ridden by Connor McClory, Bestman Bryan’s consistent performances – an impressive 5 wins from 5 starts, saw him win the overall league. McClory works in Scarvagh House and has already done some hunting with Bestman Bryan. The gelding will be aimed at the Star of the Future performance qualifiers for Balmoral.
Despite missing the first two legs of the series, Bestman Bryan’s strong showings in subsequent competitions secured his well-deserved title. His owner, Vina Buller, is well known for her contributions to the equestrian community, not only as a breeder but also through her work in event organization and course design at venues such as Castle Irvine Necarne.
The Flexi Eventing League has received fantastic feedback from competitors, many of whom were inspired by Treo Eile’s sponsorship. Organizer Dora Beacom expressed her appreciation, stating, “We have received lovely feedback from the riders who felt incentivized and excited by Treo Eile’s sponsorship, the participants have all said how much the sponsorship incentivised them to attend each week and to showcase their lovely thoroughbreds.”
The success of Bestman Bryan, along with the overall enthusiasm for the league, highlights the growing recognition of thoroughbreds as versatile and talented sport horses beyond their racing careers. Treo Eile remains committed to supporting the retraining and rehoming of ex-racehorses, ensuring that more success stories like Bestman Bryan’s continue to emerge in the future.
Full league results:
1. Connor McClory, Bestman Bryan
2. Jane Bruce, Minnie The Minx
3. Holly Rice, Supreme Dream
4. Erin McClernon, Jumper D’Ainay
5. Heather Champion, Royale Getaway
6. Emma Wallace, Wantsandneeds
