Pony riders shine

The Irish pony show jumping team won last Saturday’s German Nations Cup at Hagen on a brilliant score of just five faults after two rounds.

A double clear round from Co Clare’s Jason Foley with the Irish-bred pony, Lynncot Fancy Pants, sealed victory for Ireland. Chef d’equipe’s Gary Marshall’s team included Sligo’s Cian Harrison (Knockeroghery Prince), Wexford’s Harry Allen (Cassandra van het Roelhof), Kilkenny’s Oisin Aylward (Coppenagh Oliver Twist). Italy was second and Britain third while the host nation faded to sixth.

Spancil Hill

In addition to its usual prizes, next week’s Spancil Hill Fair will have a lucrative prize on offer for the best turned out handler and exhibit. On the schedule for Thursday, 23 June, will be cob, pony, registered Connemara and donkey classes. There will be no lunging events this time but the lunging ring will be available during the day for exhibitors to show horses or ponies.

The action begins on the evening before the fair with the usual donkey derby.

CPBS course

The CPBS are organising a judges training course for those interested in being considered for the in-hand judges list. Applicants must be a member of the CPBS, must be aged over 25 and must be resident in Ireland. Closing date for receipt of applications is the 29 June. Application forms can be downloaded from www.cpbs.ie

Double for Lennon

Former world champion Dermott Lennon enjoyed a double of wins at Luxemburg’s three-star show in Roeser. Lennon’s won the Freelander Grand Prix with the Irish Sport Horse mare Loughview Lou-Lou and the two-phase class on Fleur IV.