Don't count him out yet. I bought my horse as a 5 year old from Ireland..turned out he was 3 (if that) but didn't matter one jot to me. Okay yes he was a 'problem' horse but certainly nothing dramatic and when they tell you an Irish horse is good in traffic they mean FANTASTIC in traffic. My lad can have a lorry, bus and tractor up his arse and he'll let them pass 1 foot away without looking. That to me is worth thousands of pounds!!

At 5/6 he did have a few mad moments but I doubt that was he age it was more likely he'd got used to me and because I'd started riding him at 4 (gave him a year off and rebacked him because no way was I riding him when I learnt his true age...unlike some people I believe 4 and over for riding horses). I know for a fact he'd been hunted in Ireland, driven and jumped all which I was horrified at learning at his young age but it certainly has given him 'balls' and I have great fun on him doing XC and jumping because he's as brave as they come, never refused anything (well unless I've wimped out and told him too!!).

I've had my boy 6 years now and wouldn't change him for the world, he'll be with me til the day he dies (or I do!) and I'd have absolutely no hesitation buying again directly from Ireland...in fact already looking for a baby to bring on.