THE Ballinroe Pony Premier 2025 is in full stride, bringing with it the heart, hustle and pony power that has come to define this standout series in Ireland’s pony equestrian calendar. Following an exciting launch at Hollypark, the second leg galloped into Cavan last weekend, drawing the country’s top young talent, seasoned supporters and enthusiastic families.
There’s a special kind of magic at the Pony Premier. It’s not just about ribbons and podiums – it’s about growth, learning and fostering a competitive spirit rooted in horsemanship. Patrick Keane of Ballinroe Transport, the title sponsor, shared his thoughts. “We’re proud to sponsor the Premier again this year,” he said. “What makes it special for me is how it encourages riders to think tactically, especially about their jump-offs. It’s not just two-phase competition; there’s real strategy involved.”
And strategy certainly played a role in the weekend’s impressive results.
Domination
In the COH/Jnr 1.10/1.20m Ballinroe Pony Premier Series, Edward Walsh Jnr dominated the field, claiming both first and second places aboard Diamante and Limited Edition (Wbs) respectively. Emily Hall rounded out the podium with a fine third-place ride on Lockside Celtic Queen.
The 128 90cm Under 10s saw a rising star in Jack Derwin, who piloted Ginger Rodgers to a well-earned victory. He was followed closely by Emily Flavin on Parcglas Maid In Splendour, with Mairead Kate Barry and Jack Rush tying for third on Ryehall Marble Arch and Dromore Hill Boy.
In the 138 1.15m, Katelyn Horgan impressed with a winning performance on Mystic Du Charooli. Millie Jeffers and Lucia Keane weren’t far behind, securing second and third places respectively.
Meanwhile, the 128 1.05m class belonged to Lily Lennon and Woodside Jerry-Lee, with Tim Morton on Parkhill Crackerjack and DJ Kent on Creevagh Pringles taking the other podium spots.
The blue-ribbon class of the day, the 148 1.30m Pony Premier, delivered all the thrills. Cian McMunn aboard Esperando Sk clinched first place, while Zoe Mellet (Victory Day) and Harry Rush (Birchgrove Blue Delight) followed closely behind.
Finding stars
Beyond the main events, the day also featured two exciting development series – the PRL Pathway and the Boomerang Star Finder – both aimed at identifying Ireland’s next generation of equestrian stars.
The PRL Pathfinder Series saw Helen Walsh take the win on Lurgan Sallyanne, followed by Johan Fitzpatrick Burns on Kinamara Dun Boy and Robbie Sheehan with Knockroe Clover Mor.
In the 148 Boomerang Starfinder (6/7yo, 1.15-1.20m) division, it was Jack Dore and Iron Rock Du Ham who came out on top, with Lexi Treacy (Newline Lucky Lui) and Cliodhna McEvoy (Juno Uno) showing exceptional promise in second and third.
As the dust settles in Cavan, all eyes now turn to the next leg of the Premier, set for The Meadows on July 12th. With momentum building and young talent on the rise, it promises to be another unforgettable day of ponies, passion and top-tier jumping.
For now, the Ballinroe Pony Premier rides on as a celebration of skill, spirit and the sheer joy of the sport.