The queen bee herself this morning, Lishin Star. What can I say about this extraordinary lady, now gracefully entering her 23rd year. We truly hit the jackpot when we purchased her as a two-year-old from her breeder, Joe Cunniffe. From the very start, she captured our hearts with her elegance, spirit, and undeniable presence.
Over the years, Lishin Star has brought us so much joy, creating cherished memories as a family. Together, we experienced unforgettable moments in the show ring, where she shone brightly, winning four red ribbons in Clifden and being crowned Reserve Supreme Champion in 2019.
Her legacy as a broodmare is unparalleled. She is the dam of Carrowkeel Star, who was Reserve Supreme Champion Clifden, in 2014, the dam to An Cheathrú Chaol Bláthnaid who was the Reserve Visitor Champion in 2016, the granddam of Copperbeech Polly, Reserve Broodmare Champion Clifden, in 2023, and the great-granddam of Copperbeech Ivy, Clifden Foal Champion in 2023. With four generations of her bloodline running on our farm, her influence is deeply woven into our breeding program.
As winter approaches, I reflect on all she has given us. Lishin Star has earned her slower pace, and my deepest hope is that this winter is kind to her, allowing her to enjoy her days surrounded by the love and care she so richly deserves.