THROUGHOUT the country, Pony Clubs are holding their annual awards nights and last Friday members and supporters of the Golden Vale Branch gathered at Revel at the Ragg in Thurles where Area Representative Pat Walsh presented the awards.

Highlights of 2026 included the large number of members who competed at this year’s Irish Pony Club national minimus championships where the Golden Vale Cheeky Teasers team of Ronan Maher, Shauna Gleeson, Ciaran Mockler and Evan Corcoran won the cross-country prize.

The Branch was well represented in Tetrathlon with Breandán Purcell and Carra Molloy making the Irish squad who competed at The Pony Club GB junior championships while Sean Maher likewise travelled to the senior championships across the water.

There was also a good representation of members at the IPC national eventing championships, with Leo Cleere making the Irish team who competed in England.

The Branch also competed in both the Alice Mernagh and Robbie Bailey show jumping team championships at the IPC Festival, with Vicky Kerwick being singled out for her performance.

Over 30 awards were presented on the night, the most prestigious being Pony Clubber of the year which was won by Saoirse Lee. Also recognised for their achievements were those who successfully passed their C and C+ Tests.

District Commissioner Frank Nolan and all of the committee worked tirelessly throughout the year to give members a fantastic experience in 2026. Pony club is the most wonderful way for young equestrians to develop their skills but learning is often trumped by lifelong memories and fabulous friendships.