Edward Doyle

In early December we were delighted to see Heather O'Brien arrive to the yard. Heather hails all the way from New York and has settled in well. Heather will concentrate on getting the horses fit for the Guidam Spring Tour which she will hopefully compete in herself and it is great to have her on board.

We recently welcomed the arrival of a 10 year old Kildalton King horse Kemanzie. He is a lovely addition to the yard and I see him as a Grand Prix horse for 2009, also a 4 year old stallion by Lux Z. Most of the horses are now receiving a well earned break with the majority being turned out to grass.

We would like to thank all our owners for their contribution and continued support throughout 2008, in particular Sequoyah Farms, The Last Orders Club, Fidelma Keogh and Mr & Mrs Manuela Martinelli. We also remember Benny Kuenhle who we so tragically lost in November. Benny will always be in our thoughts and is greatly missed in the yard where his wit, incredible talent and constant good humour will long live in the memory of Punchestown House.

With that and on behalf of Catherine, Edward junior, Ian, Sarah and myself, may I take this opportunity of wishing you all a Happy Christmas and much success throughout 2009.

December brought Edward a much coveted award amongst Irish breeders,

BREEDER OF THE TOP INTERNATIONAL SHOW JUMPING HORSE: Edward and Catherine Doyle, Breeder of Flexible (ISH)

Flexible is a 12 year old stallion by Cruising (ISH) out of Flex (ISH), by Safari (TB). Flexible's results include winning three out of the four FEI World Cup qualifying classes which culminated at the FEI World Cup Final in Gotenborg Sweden, where he finished 2nd with American rider Rich Fellers. They were also part of the winning American team at the 5 star Nations' Cup at Spruce Meadows.

It is with great regret we met with the tragic passing of Benny Kuenhle today. One could never underestimate the talent that Benny had and what a truly great light he was both in and out off the saddle. Our deepest sympathies go out to Benny's family and friends during this tragic time. He will be greatly missed by Edward, Catherine, Edward Junior, Ian and Senna and all at Punchestown House.

Team Edward Doyle head to their last show of 2009, Cavan CSI**.

The horses were in great form at Kill National Show last week with Edward taking the feature class on Thursday on Last Orders Club Pamela and finishing 2nd on Friday nights Derby class with Flexing. Benny was also consistantly in the ribbons with Looping Star and Cruising Mickey Finn who he finished 6th on in the Grand Prix on Sunday.

Team Edward Doyle are just back from Belfast CSI *** International. The week started well with Benny Keunhle winning the opening class on Looping Star. Both Edward and Benny were in the ribbons on numerous occassions over the weekend. Edward with Flexing and Last Orders Club's Pamela. Benny with Cruising Mickey Finn and Looping Star.