The annual SJI Pony Awards ceremony brought glitz and glamour to Mullingar Park Hotel, celebrating over 40 achievements by young riders in national and international show jumping. More than 500 attendees gathered to recognize talents from leagues, championships, and European competitions. Proceeds supported Crumlin Children’s Hospital and upcoming pony events.
Last Saturday night, the Mullingar Park Hotel hosted the SJI Pony Awards, a sold-out event with over 500 tickets purchased in December. Pony Committee chairman Killian McCarthy thanked the Awards Committee, Rhiannon Maher, the SJI office, riders, families, trainers, sponsors, and show centers for their contributions. He highlighted donations to Crumlin Children’s Hospital through the Children’s Foundation and noted that most proceeds would fund the 2025 National Pony Championships.
The evening included an online auction with 14 lots sold post-ceremony and a raffle featuring over 67 prizes, all benefiting pediatric care. Children enjoyed performances by caricaturist Niall O’Loughlin and magician Aidan Murphy, leaving with goodie bags.
Awards covered national leagues like the Walter Reape, Ark Equine Discovery, and Equi Jump Spring Tour, plus qualifiers for the Dublin Horse Show, champions, reserves, and All-Ireland Interprovincial riders. Sarah Delaney claimed overall victories in the 148cm 90cm, 1m, and 1.10m championships. Regional up-and-comers honored included Charlie O’Hara from Connaught, Cara O’Connor from Leinster, Rory McBride from Ulster, and Lauren Walsh from Munster.
Henry De Bromhead presented the Jack DeBromhead Overall Speed Derby to Finn Russell and Coppenagh with No Fear. International accolades went to the European Championship Children on Horses gold and bronze medal teams, with Charlie Flynn receiving bronze individually and Cian McMunn earning gold and a Special Achievement Award. Chef d’Equipe Denis Flannelly praised the athletes' promise and Ireland's results, crediting coaching from Horse Sport Ireland and parental support.
Cian McMunn reflected, “Going into the final day, I tried not to think too much about it. I knew a medal was in reach, so I just had to stick to the plan.” He thanked his parents. Other winners included Lucia Keane for the Edward and Margaret Fagan International Rider of the Year, Sam Widger for the Ian Fearon award, and Ruby Kelly for the National Overall Pony Points Championship.
Reuben Foley received special recognition for sweeping the 128cm, 138cm, and 148cm Dublin championships, a rare feat matched only by Bertram Allen. Foley said, “To win all three championships was a great feeling,” and expressed excitement for young rider competitions.
Flor Madden presented Dublin Horse Show awards, congratulating riders and crediting SJI efforts. He confirmed the RDS is on track for 2026, marking the 100th anniversary of international jumping in Dublin, and praised the Army Equitation School's centenary. Retiring riders accepted final plaques, and the night ended with a disco until midnight.
