Novice Classes
In partnership with local Connaught horse, pony, and agricultural shows and gymkhanas, the primary objective of these leagues is to foster a spirit of excellence, sportsmanship, and continuous improvement among young Connaught equestrians at all levels.
Former Connaught pony athletes, now international riders have agreed to be a Pony Partner with the overall winners of each category of this inaugural league. Winning rider/pony combinations will have a meet and greet with a Connaught international rider. They will also receive a numnah, fly veil and jacket with the international riders logo, the riders will also share videos/photos on their social media platform using the chosen hashtag #Connaughtponypartner This pony league shall run throughout the summer months in partnership with approved horse, pony, and agricultural shows in Connaught.
Classes: Newcomers (non winners of open competitions), 128 80cm, 138 90cm, 148 1m
League: Based on number of attendances (including Connaught Showjumping Final 7th September)
Scores: Random draw where equal competitors
A very special thanks to the international riders Jessica Burke, Michael Duffy, Michael G Duffy and Richard Howley.
Jessica Burke is an accomplished Irish showjumper who transitioned from a career in teaching to full-time showjumping. She is currently based at Arion Stud in Hampshire, UK, and has achieved significant success, including a hat-trick of wins at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2022. Jessica's key horses include Inpulss, Express Trend, and Nikey HH (Horse & Hound) (The Irish Field) (Horse & Hound).
Michael Duffy is a prominent Irish showjumper known for his recent successes, including winning the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix in Miami Beach in 2024. He dedicated this victory to his late friend, Jack Dodd. Michael is recognized for his partnership with the horse Claptonn Mouche and his contributions to the Irish team that won silver at the 2023 European Championships in Milan (Home) (Chronicle of Horse) (Horse & Hound) (Irish Sport Horse Magazine).
Michael G. Duffy, another talented Irish showjumper, is known for his performances on the Global Champions League circuit. He rides top horses like Lapuccino and Chappo Chey and has been a consistent presence on international podiums. Michael G. Duffy is part of a family deeply rooted in equestrian sports, with both parents being involved in the field (Horse & Hound).
Richard Howley is also a distinguished Irish showjumper who competes internationally. He has a strong track record and is known for his technical skill and competitive spirit in the showjumping arena. In recent years, Richard has achieved remarkable successes. In 2023, he had a standout season with six major wins on the Sunshine Tour in Spain and victories in various Grand Prix events. One of his most notable achievements came in 2024 when he won the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup leg in Oslo, beating some of the world's top riders.