THERE was welcome news this week for showing enthusiasts, with the announcement that Clonmel Show has been allocated seven Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) qualifiers for 2026.

The show will take place on Sunday, July 5th, and the allocation of two additional qualifiers further cements Clonmel’s standing as a key fixture on the Irish showing calendar.

HOYS, widely regarded as one of the most prestigious shows in the UK, attracts huge entries to the NEC in Birmingham every October. With these qualifiers on home soil, Irish producers and riders will have a valuable opportunity to secure a coveted ticket to the “arena of dreams”, potentially boosting Irish representation on the HOYS stage later in the season.

The seven HOYS qualifiers to be hosted at Clonmel Show are: The Price Family In-Hand Supreme; NPS/Supreme Products M&M Ridden Connemara Pony of the Year; Catplant Group of Companies Ltd Show Hunter of the Year (Light, Middle and Heavyweight); Hamilton Tarmac Small Show Hunter of the Year Championship; Alan Marnie and Family (Meta Lounge Ltd) and SHB (GB) Working Hunter of the Year Championship (Horse).

“It is wonderful that Clonmel Show is being recognised as a suitable venue by HOYS to run these qualifiers,” said Cecily Purcell, Chair of the Equestrian Committee. “Clonmel is well placed in the showing calendar, being on the first Sunday in July, and is an ideal preparation for Dublin Horse Show for the hunter producers. Having Clonmel Racecourse as our venue has the added benefit of having larger arenas, permanent structures, viewing platforms and top-class facilities.

“Being able to offer overnight stabling on site is a plus, as we have competitors from all 32 counties in Ireland. Our enthusiastic equestrian committee will again align with our neighbours, Killusty Pony Show, to market July 4th and 5th, 2026 as ‘The trip to Tipp’ weekend of shows.”