Connemara ponies trot out in style

THE sturdy Connemara Pony, a breed with origins going back 2,500 years to the days of the Celtic warriors, was celebrated in style at Clifden, Co Galway, yesterday.

Crowds flocked to the Connemara Breeders 80th annual show, and the 56th to be held in Clifden, despite the heavy early morning rain which later gave way to periods of finer weather.

President Dermot Power, welcomed the visitors, including members of Connemara Pony Societies worldwide, who came to discuss the breed, watch the showing classes and enjoy the occasion.