THE Irish Injured Jockeys and Killusty Pony Show have announced an exclusive art auction and exhibition set to take place on Saturday, October 11th, 2025 at The Hotel Minella in Clonmel, Co Tipperary, which will showcase an extraordinary collection of artworks from the equine world by artist David Baird.

“I embarked on this series of paintings almost serendipitously after attending the annual Clonmel Show in 2002,” the artist said. “I went hoping to capture a few decent photographs of horses and ponies that I could later turn into paintings. It wasn’t until I returned home and began reviewing the day’s shots that I noticed a lady standing at the head of one of the horses. Her side saddle outfit was incredibly appealing and truly timeless.

“I was both pleased and surprised by the resulting portrait. She looked fantastic, leading me to consider that adding a second figure might create a captivating pair of paintings. Charlie Gundry, then with the Kilkenny Hunt, and his beloved hound, Paragon, graciously agreed to a photo shoot at Mount Juliet. This moment nudged me closer to silks, saddles, and the lively atmosphere of the show! These two paintings marked the beginning of a growing collection of individuals connected to the equestrian world.

“Fast forward 171 paintings and nearly 13 years later, I painted Ger Clancy, the esteemed vet of Carrick, and that marked the conclusion of this chapter!

“Along the way, some paintings were sold, while others were gifted. For the past five years, approximately 138 pieces have been tucked away at my home. Recently, as I browsed through them, I was pleasantly surprised and the thought of my paintings helping others brings me immense joy, which is why all proceeds will be shared between the Killusty Pony Show and the Irish Injured Jockeys.”

The event will begin with a preview at 6pm, followed by the auction starting at 8pm. Interested parties are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance as seating is limited. Tickets are €25 which include light refreshments and musical entertainment. Proceeds from the auction will support The Irish Injured Jockeys Fund and The Killusty Pony Show, emphasising David Baird’s commitment to giving back to the community.

To see all the paintings and to bid on the timed online auction, visit https://www.michaelryan.ie/

Tickets can be purchased by contacting Theresa Kinane 086 8291042 or Pat Culligan 087 9451810. They can also be purchased by emailing info@irishinjuredjockeys.com or by following https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/CharityAuctionandExhibitionofworksbyDavidBaird