CONNAUGHT riders, owners and supporters were out in force last Friday night at the annual SJI Connaught Region Awards. Taking place at the McWilliam Park Hotel in Claremorris, a crowd of over 260 was in attendance with a multitude of awards to be handed out. MC for the night was the region’s Junior and Young Rider representative Paul Tarpey, and he certainly kept busy as he presented awards from pony newcomers, European Pony Champions and sports members right up to 5* International riders.

Kicking off the awards were the stars of the show, the grooms. This was a new initiative for the Connaught Region and a very welcome one, recognising the hard work behind the scenes. Next came the owners’ awards, who are vital to the success of the riders.