AREA 32 of the National Pony Society held its awards evening last Friday in the Bannville House Hotel, Banbridge as members celebrated their achievements during the 2025 showing season.

The function brought together competitors, supporters and friends of the Society to honour the dedication and success of the many pony and rider combinations who shone throughout the year. Festivities commenced with a fabulous meal, providing the perfect opportunity for attendees to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

This was followed by the presentation of awards which recognised the hard work, commitment and talent displayed across the season at the Area’s April Spring Show and at its Summer Show, which was held in collaboration with Antrim Show in late July.

The 2025 rider of the year was Jocelyn Hutchison, who had a wonderful campaign with John McCormick’s Rotherwood It’s The Business, her mother Lorraine’s Rydyfelin Starburst, Francis O’Reilly’s Cosford Teak and Natasha Cassidy’s supreme ridden champion of the year, the 11-year-old Welsh mare Loneash Eirin (Thistledown Blue Moon - Ashenvale Evelyn, by Teifi Frankie Flanagan).

Other riders whose names were called out multiple times during the presentation stage were Anthea Steele (for her season with Chiddock Space Time, Ronelle Ebony and Brookllan Dream Boy), Amelia McCartan (Eynhallow Lewis and Gryngalt Pizzacato), Alison Stewart (Dunminnin Fly Mulligan), Chloe Cannon (Captain Moonlight), Brylei Gallagher (Colandra Meant To Be), Kjerstin Chissel (Littllebyrom Limited Edition) and Amy Thomas (Strinesdale Genius).

Among those honoured for their breeding exploits were Anthony Rodgers (Doohulla Hazy Duke), Sarah Beers (Tyfry Robert) and John McCormick (Brookllan Beau’s Delight).

The evening also highlighted the commitment to the Society of two special individuals.

Special awards

The President’s Award was presented to Alex Spencer, an avid supporter and helper to the NPS throughout the year. She not only stewards and assists at shows, but keeps competitors and classes on track. This award was extra special to Alex as her father Derek Spencer, a distinguished figure in the Northern Ireland equestrian community and renowned show commentator, received this award back in 2002.

The Chairman’s Award was presented to another great supporter of the Society in Jenny Lindsay who, over the years, has also bred and shown many beautiful ponies who have gone on to be shown successfully throughout Ireland and Great Britain.

Celebrations

The celebrations continued with a well-supported raffle, generously donated to by attendees, before the evening concluded in style with some dancing. It was a wonderful night of celebration, camaraderie and fun, and a fitting way to mark another successful year for the National Pony Society Area 32 and to start the 2026 season.

This year’s Spring Show, which will offer Northern Ireland Festival working hunter qualifiers, will be held at the Danescroft Equestrian Centre on Sunday, April 26th.