This year, the custodians of Ireland’s native pony breed, the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society (CPBS), celebrates a centenary of protecting and guarding the iconic Connemara Pony. These celebrations will hit their peak at the 98th Annual Connemara Pony Show, happening August 15th-18th, which offers visitors to the West a chance to experience the magnetism of this breed over the course of a four day event.
The distinct physical qualities of the Connemara pony is the result of generations living on the extremely harsh and rocky seacoast, exposed to seemingly never-ending wet weather. Against this backdrop they developed characteristics of self-reliance, sturdy bone, hard hooves and a surefootedness the breed is renowned for to this day. In late 1923, a society was formed to place a focus on the preservation and improvement of the Connemara pony. As this first committee took initial steps at that inaugural meeting, their task was ‘to attempt to foster and develop a native breed which had existed for centuries, the merits of which were recognised not only in Ireland but outside it’. 100 years on, the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society acknowledges the foresight of the first council to preserve and improve this unique native pony that is loved and enjoyed by both children and adults the world over.
above: 2022 Supreme Champion CASHELBAY KATE with breeder Robbie Fallon of Cashelbay Connemara Pony Stud. Owned by Barbara Fallon
Since the establishment of the society, the Connemara pony has gone on to receive worldwide acclaim. The Connemara pony is represented by sister societies in 17 countries, competes across multiple equestrian disciplines, has won individual & team gold medals in international showjumping for both Team Ireland & other nations and so much more. The ponies have also successfully been a part of various styles of horse riding from western riding to carriage driving, as well as the more traditional competitive showing disciplines which you can see each year at the Connemara Pony Show.
In marking their special 100 year milestone, 2023 has been a year of continuous celebrations for the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society. Many of which have been leading up to this summer’s Connemara Pony Show. The world’s largest showcase of Connemara ponies, the four days of events offerfestival-goers the opportunities to see these ponies up close and to experience first hand the diverse talents of the breed. From Tuesday 15th visitors to the show can see loose jumping competitions showcasing pony’s athleticism. An international visitors gathering at Abbeyglen Castle Hotel will welcome guests from around the world. Wednesday 16th hosts in-hand pony showing classes as well as a dog show and best dress competitions with entries being taken on the day. A special Parade of Past Champions will showcase winners from years gone by, will also take place. Thursday 17th there is the chance to see ponies ridden under saddle compete in flat and jumping classes. A free kids corner will provide entertainment for all the family with arts & crafts and storytelling throughout the day. Friday 18th of this special centenary year show, Connemara ponies will demonstrate courage and athleticism in the Clifden High Performance Final and Puissance classes. These events are always highly anticipated, as riders and ponies tackle challenging jumping courses and face increasing fence heights with each round. Culminating in a tradition unique to the Connemara Pony Show -the Parade of Champions- Friday evening will see all winning ponies, handlers and rider combinations partake in a victory lap leaving from the showgrounds to parade through the streets of Clifden. A distinctive custom to Connemara Pony Show, the parade showcases the remarkable accomplishments of the top performers throughout the four-day event.
above: >2022 Champion Ridden Pony Cashelbay Rocket ridden by Michael Harty, owned & bred by Cashelbay Connemara Pony stud
The Connemara Pony Show 2023 will return to The Showgrounds in Clifden this August 15-18th. The 98th annual festival is set to be a magnificent celebration of both the Connemara pony and the society’s centenary. With 45 competitions scheduled across the four days, you are guaranteed a festival full of captivating events which will showcase the breed’s exceptional talent and pay homage to its remarkable history. ”This year marks the centenary celebrations for the society established in 1923 and also marks the 50-year milestone of ridden classes highlighting the importance of showcasing the breed's performance capabilities across so many disciplines. The event serves as a vital platform to demonstrate the versatility of the Connemara pony, captivating and inspiring all who attend,” says Fiona Grimes, Marketing Chair of the CPBS.
If you would like to learn more about the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society, check out their website at; https://cpbs.ie/ or follow them on their social media - Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for all the latest information regarding the Connemara Pony Show and all their future events.
above: 2022 Parade of Champions ridden winners
Feature photo; 2022 Winner of 4 to 6 year old Working Hunter pony -RATHCOONA ROBIN - Rider & owner Caoimhe Doherty. All photos by Rynes Walker, courtesy of Connemara Pony Breeders' Society.
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