THE pony eventing team for the 2023 FEI European Championships for Ponies, taking place at Le Mans, France, from July 24th to 30th, has been announced by Horse Sport Ireland and High Performance manager Jane Kinsella.

The squad, in alphabetical order is: Ben Connors (Cornafest Fred), Erin Mathieson (Longwood Dawn), Ciara O’Connor (Agharanny Minstrel), Molly O’Connor (Coolnaleen Rebel), Carla Williamson (Galco) and Hannah Willis (Kilnaspic Lily). The non travelling reserves, in alphabetical, order are: Gearoid Bolger (Whitethorn Honeys Rock), Ben Connors (Tullibards Cloneenagh Ted), Zara McCarthy (Romans Special Envoy) and Gilby Monaghan (Longwood Laura).

Exciting

Speaking about the announcement, Kinsella said: “We have some really experienced and exciting combinations in the squad this year, including the 2021 and 2022 individual silver medallist Ben Connors on Cornafest Fred. Ben was also on the 2021 bronze medal-winning and 2022 gold medal-winning teams.

“The athletes selected have performed well at the observation events and have posted some impressive results at national and international level. I am really excited to see how they rise to the challenge of Le Mans and am hoping to continue the incredible success of last year’s pony squad at the European Championships – we will be aiming to bring back medals.

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the incredible athletes and thank the parents and the support teams for their engagement with the High Performance Pony Eventing Programme. I would also like to thank all our sponsors.”