William Funnell (www.williamfunnell.co.uk) is a world-renowned show jumping rider with over 20 years experience at the top of his sport. He has won over 20 International titles and has represented his country all over the world at the highest levels.

Donal Barnwell (www.donalbarnwell.co.uk) has over 20 years experience in breeding horses and, in addition to his own unique philosophy and outlook on selection, breeding and training, is recognised as having one of the best eyes in the business.

Together they have created The Billy Stud and have developed a successful production program of young homebred horses where their individual philosophy’s and approach are reaping rewards in producing successful sport horses.

They both have a firm belief that the Irish bloodlines have a lot to offer and give advantages over Continental breeding. The Irish bloodlines have been under-estimated in the past and they believe that their investment to date has given them an advantage in the market.

Their aim is to be the source of the best British bred competition horses in volumes adequate to satisfy the market. The oldest stock are now 6 to 7 and are producing results at the highest levels, and a large number of 4-5 years olds are now becoming available.

The majority of the mares are based at Donal’s Kirdford yard with young horses then being transferred to William’s yard near Dorking to bring them on.

But why is it called The Billy Stud?

Billy Orange was the first foal out of their original mare, he was a bright chestnut and was called Orange at Donal's yard. He was then sent to Wiliam's yard where the girls gave him the stable name of Billy - two names for the same horse was causing confusion so he got both names. The next foal bred was Autumn, and he was given the prefix as well and that is how it started...