THE Western Area of the Irish Pony Society held is 2024 awards ceremony at the Raheen Woods Hotel, Athenry on Sunday, February 9th.

The well-attended event brought together members, family and friends, who enjoyed a very sociable afternoon filled with camaraderie and celebration.

The annual prizes and awards, which recognise the achievements members worked hard for throughout the season, were presented by Area Chairperson, Denise Colebrooke and Area Secretary, Imelda O’Shaughnessy. Their efforts in acknowledging the dedication and passion of members added a special touch to the ceremony.

The atmosphere was lively and filled with expectations, as attendees shared stories, experiences and aspirations for the future. The ceremony not only honoured individual achievements, but also strengthened the sense of community and friendship among the participants. As the event concluded, there was a palpable sense of optimism and enthusiasm for what lies ahead.

The 2024 award winners were: Lara Field (performance champion and working hunter champion), Ella Helion (show hunter pony champion), Katie Murphy (133cm working hunter and equitation champion), Ruairi Flaherty (young handlers champion), Ella Hoey O’Connor (emerging superstar award), Ashleigh Tate and Carole Farnell (in-hand winners and overall reserve points winners), Charlie O’Shaughnessy (best lorry brother and groom), Karen Reynolds (show pony broodmare champion) and Nicole O’Shaughnessy (show pony champion, mini Mountain and Moorland champion, mini working hunter champion and overall points winner).