The 97th annual Connemara Pony Show has been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic and in line with the Irish Shows’ Association (ISA) recommendations.

The show was due to take place at the showgrounds in Clifden from 19 to 22 August.

The Connemara Pony Breeders Society (CPBS) announced the cancellation last week.

A statement released last week by the society reads: “Since the coronavirus outbreak last January, the Society has continuously monitored the situation and taken guidance from the Irish Government and the Health Service Executive.

“The health and safety of all those who gather in Clifden for the pony show have been the society’s priority in reaching this decision.

The CPBS has a responsibility to contribute to the national effort in controlling the virus in Ireland and it is in the best interests of public health and safety to provide certainty at this stage which would be beneficial to all, particularly our breeders and producers.”

RDS plans

Meanwhile, organisers of the Dublin Horse Show have already announced a date for the 2021 show which will take place from 18 to 22 August 2021.

The move away from the traditional early August dates is to facilitate the horses and riders that will be competing in the delayed Tokyo Olympics.

Speaking about dates and the 2021 Show, chief executive of the RDS, Michael Duffy said: “It was very disappointing to have to cancel this year’s show, but it was the most responsible decision that we could take in the circumstances.

“The 147th show will instead take place next year and we are looking forward to the 100,000 visitors that the show attracts over the five days.

“The show is considered one of the best in the world and is also vital to the Irish sport horse industry and the community.

“However, the health and safety of our visitors, and of the general public, will continue to be of paramount concern for the RDS.

“Because of this we will continue to monitor Covid-19 developments for the foreseeable future.”