The Connemara Pony Breeders Society is pleased to announce an educational course aimed at enhancing breeders’ knowledge and understanding of responsible breeding practices, linear assessment and Connemara pony breed standards.

This initiative will provide breeders with valuable information and expert guidance to support informed breeding decisions, promote responsible breeding practices and contribute to the long-term preservation, quality and integrity of the Connemara Pony.

Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Enhanced Breeding Knowledge

The course will equip breeders with the knowledge and skills needed to identify and select quality mares and stallions that align with Connemara pony breed standards. By strengthening their understanding of breeding selection, participants will be better prepared to make informed decisions that support the continued development and preservation of the breed.

Guidance from Certified Inspectors and a VCI-Accredited Veterinary Surgeon

Participants will benefit from the expertise of a trained and certified inspector skilled in linear assessment, alongside a Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI)-accredited veterinary surgeon.

Together, they will inform and advise breeders on assessment criteria, breeding considerations and responsible decision-making. This expert guidance will help participants develop a clearer understanding of the factors that contribute to breeding quality Connemara ponies.

Supporting Breed Standards and Preservation

A key objective of the course is to encourage greater understanding and compliance with Connemara Pony Breeders Society (CPBS) breed standards. By promoting responsible breeding practices and informed selection, the Society aims to support the long-term preservation, quality and future of the native Connemara pony for generations to come.

Course Dates, Venues and Registration

• Clifden Showgrounds - Saturday, 17 October 2026 – 10am
• Linear Profile Speaker: Malachy Gorham
• Veterinary Speaker: Dr. Vera Lichtenhahn DVM
• Click here to register for the Clifden course​​​​​​​

• Creagh EC, Ballinasloe - Sunday, 18 October 2026 – 10am   

• Linear Profile Speaker: Grace Maxwell Murphy
• Veterinary Speaker: Dr. Vera Lichtenhahn DVM
• Click here to register for the Ballinasloe course

Limited Places Available

To provide a focused and valuable learning experience, each course has a maximum capacity of 40 participants. Early registration is strongly encouraged, as places are limited.

The Connemara Pony Breeders Society welcomes breeders, owners and all those with an interest in the future of the Connemara pony to participate in this important educational initiative.

This is an excellent opportunity to expand your breeding knowledge, learn from experienced professionals and contribute to the responsible breeding and preservation of the Connemara Pony.

Enquiries can be made to Kathleen Keaney Conroy [email protected]

Organised by the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society and supported by the DAFM under the Equine Technical Support and Equine Breeding Schemes.