THE countdown to the 99th Connemara Pony Breeders Society annual show at CPBS showgrounds in Clifden has begun with Connemara Pony devotees preparing for four busy days from Tuesday, August 20th, to Friday, 23rd.

This year boasts a record breaking number of 733 entries with the action officially kicking off on Tuesday with an impressive entry of 70 ponies competing in the Horse Sport Ireland-sponsored loose jumping classes.

Wednesday will see the in-hand ponies taking centre stage commencing with the Junior Classes. Following the Junior Championship there will be an exceptional demonstration of Connemara Pony carriage driving.

On Thursday the ridden pony classes will feature, including the elegant side saddle class. Thursday afternoon will finish with the first of the working hunter classes.

On Friday the focus will be on the working hunter classes and on Friday afternoon the spotlight falls on the always electrifying Puissance competition to wrap up the annual show.

Events happening outside of the show ring will include a bus tour of Connemara Pony studfarms for show guests leaving the Showgrounds at 1pm on Monday, August 19th. Tickets will go on sale two weeks before the show on the CPBS website and spaces are limited.

On Wednesday night in the Station House Hotel CPBS President, Daragh K. Ó Tuairisg will host the President’s Dinner and Awards evening. Tickets for the President’s Dinner are still available on the CPBS website.

The CPBS is looking forward to welcoming all Connemara Pony enthusiasts at what promises to be a great few days at their biggest show yet.