Tipperary student to represent county at student enterprise awards

The Student Enterprise Programme, Ireland’s largest and most successful initiative for young entrepreneurs, offers an invaluable platform for aspiring innovators to present their ideas, with the national final taking place on May 8.

Local boy Liam Hackett, a young equestrian entrepreneur is making a name for himself in the world of horse care with his innovative invention, BitFit, a device for improved equine comfort and performance.

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After winning the county final of the Student Enterprise Programme senior category, he is now preparing to represent Tipperary at the national final in May.

Liam, a student in St Joseph’s College Borrisoleigh is a dedicated horse enthusiast and newly qualified amateur jockey.

He has always been deeply invested in equine welfare.

Having spent countless hours in the saddle, he has observed first-hand how ill-fitting bits can cause discomfort, behavioural issues, and even disrupt the bond between horse and rider.

Determined to address this overlooked issue, he combined his love for horses with a passion for innovation to develop a device that enhances both equine comfort and performance.

Liam’s extensive research, conducted with vets, physiotherapists, farriers, equine dentists, trainers, jockeys, and work riders, confirmed that while proper horseshoe fitting is widely recognised, bit fitting is often neglected. Yet, it is just as crucial to a horse’s wellbeing.

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Inspired by expert insights, he designed BitFit—a universal bit-fitting tool that is simple, safe, and easy to use.

Unlike brand-specific measuring devices that have to be printed out and assembled, BitFit fills a significant gap in the market by offering a practical, universal solution.

Using SolidWorks, Liam developed a sliding ruler design, refining prototypes through multiple iterations before achieving the final product—a sleek, durable, and washable device suitable for everyone to use, from young pony riders to professional trainers.

BitFit features a unique scale ranging from 1 to 15, allowing quick and accurate measurements.

An engraved conversion chart between metric and imperial systems ensures ease of use, while a built-in locking mechanism guarantees precision every time.

Bridging tradition and innovation, BitFit is a game-changer for equestrians, making proper bit fitting more accessible and inclusive.

The Student Enterprise Programme has been instrumental in helping Liam turn his idea into a successful product.

The programme has provided him with invaluable business skills, mentorship, and opportunities to develop his entrepreneurial mind-set. Winning the county final was a real achievement, and he is now looking forward to showcasing BitFit on the national stage in May.

Liam is particularly grateful for the support of teachers, who have been fantastic mentors throughout his journey. Their guidance, instruction and encouragement have played a huge role in helping him refine his business idea and prepare for competition at a national level.

The programme is a fantastic initiative for young entrepreneurs, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and real-world business experience.

Liam highly recommends it to any student with a business idea, as it provides the confidence, resources, and support needed to bring innovations to market.

In addition to his success in the Student Enterprise Programme, Liam has also applied for a patent and trademark for BitFit through the Intellectual Property Office of Ireland.

This further demonstrates his commitment to innovation and ensuring BitFit’s place as a valuable tool in equestrian care.

BitFit has already attracted significant interest from the equestrian community, and Liam is excited about its future. His goal is to make bit fitting an integral part of horse care, ensuring that every horse experiences maximum comfort and performance.

With the national final approaching, his journey continues to be both challenging and rewarding, and he looks forward to the opportunities ahead for BitFit and beyond.