HAVING survived World War II and Foot and Mouth disease, it was devastating for the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society to cancel the 2020 Annual Connemara Pony Show. Since the show’s introduction in 1924, this is the first year it has not taken place, but like many other organisations, the health and safety of the members, competitors, spectators and local community had to be put above all else and on the advice of the Irish Shows’ Association the event was cancelled.

The show in the third week of August each year is the centre piece of a week-long festival which takes place in Clifden and its environs. The support received every year from local businesses and residents is invaluable and of huge importance to the festival as the Connemara Pony community takes over the town of Clifden.