The official launch of the 101st Connemara Pony Show Clifden took place on Friday 17th July, in Clifden Town Square, bringing together members of the Show Committee, volunteers, sponsors, pony enthusiasts and the wider Connemara community to begin the countdown to the world’s largest celebration of the Connemara Pony.
Running from 18th–21st August, the 101st Connemara Pony Show will once again transform Clifden into the international home of the Connemara Pony, welcoming competitors and visitors from Ireland and abroad for four days celebrating the breed, the region and its vibrant community.
This year’s programme includes:
- The world’s largest display of Connemara Ponies
- Domestic Arts Exhibition
- Dog Show
- Irish Dancing Competition
- Live music and entertainment throughout the week
- Family attractions and community events
- A celebration of the heritage, culture and traditions of Connemara
The launch of the 101st Connemara Pony Show was officially opened by Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr. Andrew Reddington, who acknowledged the enduring importance of the Connemara Pony Show to the region’s heritage, tourism and rural economy before wishing the committee every success with this year’s event.
Welcoming guests on behalf of the Show Committee, Karen Mannion said the Connemara Pony Show has been at the heart of the community for 101 years; "The Connemara Pony Show is a celebration of our heritage, our culture, our people and the remarkable Connemara Pony. It belongs to the people of Connemara and every volunteer, sponsor, exhibitor and visitor plays a part in ensuring this wonderful tradition continues to flourish for future generations."
Karen thanked the many volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors and supporters whose commitment continues to make the Show one of Ireland’s premier equestrian events.
A highlight of the evening was Karen’s announcement that Clare Oakes has been appointed Show Chair for the 2026 Connemara Pony Show. Welcoming Clare to the role, Karen praised her enthusiasm and commitment and said she looked forward to working alongside Clare and the entire Show Committee in delivering another outstanding event this August.
Speaking following her appointment, Clare Oakes said; "It is a tremendous honour to be appointed Show Chair for the 101st Connemara Pony Show. This event means so much to Clifden, Connemara and the wider pony community, and I look forward to working with our dedicated committee, volunteers, exhibitors and supporters to deliver another outstanding Show this August."
Among those attending the launch were Denis Duggan, Chief Executive of Horse Sport Ireland, Nadia Rea of the Irish Horse Board, the newly appointed President of the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society Kevin Bolger, together with CPBS Council members Ann Marie Conroy, Gearóid Curran and Kathleen Keaney-Conroy, along with representatives from local organisations, businesses and community groups.
Addressing those gathered, Denis Duggan reaffirmed Horse Sport Ireland’s commitment to supporting Ireland’s premier native pony show. Horse Sport Ireland, funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, has increased its support for the 2026 Connemara Pony Show with an additional €5,000 in prize funding, bringing its total investment in this year’s Show to €15,000.
Karen Mannion welcomed the continued support from Horse Sport Ireland, describing it as "a testament to the level of entries, community involvement and participation" that continues to make the Connemara Pony Show one of the country’s most prestigious equestrian events.
The launch also celebrated some of the outstanding champions from the 2025 Show, with several past winners proudly attending the evening. Among them were Glencarrig Douvan, the 2025 Supreme and Ridden Champion, presented in-hand by owner and breeder Patrick Curran; Lankill Lad, Dual Ridden and Working Hunter Champion, with owner and rider Lauren Kerins; and three-time Ridden Champion rider Grace Maxwell Murphy, who attended with her own stallion Glenville Glic, continuing her long association with success at Clifden.
With another exceptional entry expected across the equine competitions, together with a packed programme of entertainment and community events, the 101st Connemara Pony Show promises to be another unforgettable celebration of Ireland’s native breed and the unique community that has proudly sustained this remarkable tradition for more than a century.
For full programme details and event information visit www.connemaraponyshow.ie or follow @connemaraponyshow on Facebook and Instagram.
