AMONG the families having a day out at Ballinasloe Horse Fair on Sunday were the Gills. Damien, wife Lisa and their two daughters Katie and Roisin also recently travelled to Straskov, a small village in the Czech Republic where a very special event for Connemara pony breeders took place.

The Czech Connemara Pony Breeders Society was recently approved as an official studbook and Society. Damien, a CPBS inspector and judge, was invited over as an inspector for its first-ever inspections.

He then had the privilege of officially launching their studbook, alongside breeders and Ministry officials, with lots of champagne flowing to celebrate this landmark occasion.

Next stop was their National Breed Show which Damien also judged at.

“It was truly fantastic to see all the wonderful ponies from all over their country and even some from Germany. Some were home-bred ponies and others were imported. A most fantastic time was had and it was an absolute honour to be part of their historic day. We, as a family, were made feel so welcome and we got to see their lovely country.

“Our girls Katie and Roisìn made memories that they will remember and cherish forever. It was a lovely family holiday after such a busy season here at Cloontuskert Stud. It definitely won’t be our last time in the Czech Republic,” they said.