IT was an emotional day for the Costello family from Ballinamore, Co Leitrim, at last Sunday’s Roundstone Pony Show, which was dedicated to their son Colm who sadly passed away just over a year ago.

Colm had just turned 30 days before he died on July 2nd, following a brave battle with autoimmune disorder. A hugely popular Connemara Pony exhibitor and friend to many, Colm won the championship at Roundstone Show in 2015 with his stallion Killaneen Boy, now owned by Lucinda Kelly.

Colm and Killaneen Boy’s picture appeared on the cover of the Roundstone catalogue last Sunday and his parents Paul and Mary, as well as his brother Liam and sister Emma, were at the show to present the Colm Costello Perpetual Cup to the winner of the two and three-year-old stallion class.

The recipient, ironically, was Gerry Martyn’s dun stallion Killea Legend, exhibited by Joe Burke. Writing on social media, Mary Costello said: “Thank you to all the community of Roundstone, Galway, for dedicating their annual pony show in memory of Colm Costello.

“This was an amazing tribute to Colm and made us feel very proud that his love of the Connemara pony was acknowledged in such a very special way.

“We thank the show committee for making this all happen and giving us as a family such an heartfelt welcome.

“We are also very proud that a dun colt was the first winner of the Colm Costello Perpetual Cup – a favourite of Colm’s.

“This will be an annual event to present this cup and we will look forward to next year.”