Pony manager urges owners to keep best ponies in Ireland

By Frank Mulvihill

08 March 08 : Newly appointed manager of both the pony and childrens' international show jumping teams, Ian Fearon has revealed his desire to give as much encouragement and opportunity to up-and-coming riders as possible. Acknowledging that not all riders have a top-class mount, the Cavan-based coach is keen to give talented riders the opportunity to get some international experience.

"The more shows, the better," is the philosophy of the manager who has been trainer of Ireland's pony teams for the last five years but now takes up the position of manager under the newly formed governing body Horse Sport Ireland.

"With enough shows, the team for the championships usually reveals itself but it is important that we also encourage those other riders who may not have the top animal now but may have in the future," Ian says.

Forward Planning

The process of planning this year's preparation began last Saturday when Horse Sport Ireland brought together parents and riders, along with their horses and ponies. The purpose of the meeting was to establish goals and objectives with the European Championships being the priority.

First up on the international stage will be the annual trip to Fontainebleau in France where Ireland normally has about 18 riders participating.

The introduction of a six/seven-year-old class at the French venue is an added bonus and a good shop window for the competing riders. Last year the class was won by Ireland's Jessica Burke who took the honours on European Clover.

Fearon is excited about the new system put in place by Horse Sport Ireland and is eager for it to succeed. He remarks that coaching standards have improved in the past few years but it is also important that more talented ponies are kept here or brought into Ireland for success to follow.