THE pony show jumping fraternity were left in a state of shock last Saturday night after a fight broke out in a Midlands hotel where the SJI National Pony Awards were been held.

Videos of the incident, which took place in a bar area, were in circulation shortly afterwards and have been viewed by many, including The Irish Field.

The SJI was quick to condemn the unsavoury incident, saying such behaviour was “totally unacceptable” and would “not be tolerated”.

According to one parent present, the fight happened inside the bar area of the hotel while there were young children still present after the highly successful awards ceremony that evening (see award photographs on 107).

One parent told how her main concern was for children and parents “who could easily have found themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. There were children as young as eight there.”

Fears exist that this ugly row, which has its origins in another matter, may not end there and could continue on to the show field.

INVESTIGATION

The video showed one man in black tie dress who suffered a bloody injury to his face when he was suddenly hit by another man with what witnesses claimed was a bottle. Hotel staff were very quick to intervene. The video shows that the scene was one of general melee and atrocious language can be heard on the video. Witness accounts say that some innocent bystanders also become involved, through no fault of their own.

The Irish Field contacted Athlone Garda Station where a Garda spokesperson confirmed that they were investigating the incident.

The incident had been reported to Gardai by the victim’s friend on Monday. Later in the week, the injured party and a witness made a statement. It was also confirmed that a man had been taken to hospital for an injury to his forehead, according to the Garda spokesperson.

CONDEMNED

Newly elected Showjumping Ireland chairman Michael Blake commented: “I am aware that a serious incident took place involving a number of our members at the SJI National Pony Awards, which was held last Saturday. This type of conduct is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated. There is no place in the sport, or our organisation, for this type of behaviour. The incident will be fully investigated and appropriate action will be taken.”