In a world where finding the right pony is often as challenging as training one, the Irish Event Pony Showcase is about to make history. This Wednesday, at Killossery Lodge Stud, top-quality ponies and seasoned equestrian experts will gather for the first-ever event of its kind—a showcase built on the values of community, expertise, and trust.

Meryl, founder and organiser, recounts the origin story: “It all started with a casual conversation with Becky Cullen, former High-Performance Manager of the Irish Pony Team. I was talking about the challenges of matching ponies with riders, and she just said, ‘What you need is a viewing day!’ The showcase has evolved from there.” Meryl’s vision and Becky’s expertise form the backbone of the event, offering buyers a supportive environment to find their next equestrian partner with confidence.

A Showcase Born of Necessity

For Meryl, the idea to hold a centralised, stress-free pony showcase was not just a business venture—it was about creating a solution to a long-standing problem in the equestrian world. “As both a mother and an agent, I understand the time, energy, worry, and money that goes into purchasing a pony,” she explains. “By offering a single day for trials, conversations, and on-site expertise, I want to take some of the stress out of the process.”

What Makes This Showcase Unique?

The range of ponies available is unparalleled, spanning from 90cm to European Championship level. What makes them special, Meryl notes, is that every pony is proven in their respective discipline. “Each pony here has been doing exactly the job they’re intended for. We have ponies suited for every type of rider, and because each level has about five options, people flying in can trust they’ll see a variety of ponies that truly tick the boxes.” And to ease the buyer’s mind even further, most ponies come with recent X-rays and vetting reports, ensuring they meet the highest standards of health and safety.

A Rigorous Selection Process

With Becky Cullen’s wealth of experience, the selection process has been thorough and purposeful. “The main thing a parent wants is safety, followed closely by success,” Meryl explains. “The formula is simple—we’ve chosen ponies that are both safe and proven in competition. That’s what makes this event so valuable for families.” For Becky, who is both a competition expert and mother of a 2* pony rider, the goal is always quality and suitability.

Why Choose Irish Ponies?

Irish ponies have long been respected for their brilliance in competition and temperament, traits that make them perfect for younger riders. “Their brains are outstanding,” Meryl says. “They’ve got big hearts, they’re highly trainable, and above all, they’re genuine. Temperament is paramount, especially for children, and Irish ponies have it in spades.”

The Perfect Venue: Killossery Lodge Stud

For the inaugural event, Killossery Lodge Stud was the obvious choice. “It was my first choice by a long shot,” Meryl reveals. With its close proximity to Dublin International Airport and world-class facilities, Killossery offers both convenience and comfort. “Ciaran Glynn and his team have been incredibly supportive. From private trial spaces to the large outdoor arenas where the ponies can really show off—this venue has it all. Plus, the pavilion offers a place for like-minded people to chat over home-made cakes and mulled wine.”

An Experience Beyond Buying

The event is designed not just as a marketplace but as a community experience. There will be live demos, showcasing the ponies in action. Meryl understands the importance of a hands-on viewing: “I always compare finding a new pony to internet dating—you never really know if you’re a match until you meet in person!” Watching a pony perform live, rather than relying on video, gives buyers a real sense of whether the pony is the right fit.

Advantages Over Traditional Sales

Unlike typical sales events, the Irish Event Pony Showcase prioritises a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. “Buying a pony can be daunting, especially for parents,” Meryl says. “We’ve removed the high-pressure elements you’d find in auctions. Here, buyers can take their time, ask questions, and really get a feel for each pony. We want this to feel like a safe investment—an experience that offers value beyond just the price tag.”

The Dynamic Team Behind the Event

Beyond Meryl and Becky, the Showcase team includes renowned equestrians like Suzanne Hagan, Susan McDonald, and Chloe Hester, each bringing invaluable expertise. “Suzanne events at the 4* level, and as a mother herself, she understands the unique needs of young riders. Susan’s knowledge in producing young horses is unmatched, and Chloe has experience organising equestrian sales at scale. We’re all here to help buyers navigate their options with confidence,” says Meryl.

What Buyers Can Expect

With a broad selection of ponies, there truly is something for everyone. From young riders just starting out to seasoned competitors, this showcase is tailored to a range of needs. Meryl assures, “Whether you’re seeking a schoolmaster, a top-level prospect, or a pony with proven international experience, it’s all here in one place.”

A Warm Welcome with Cake and Community Spirit

The addition of homemade cakes and mulled wine adds a unique touch that reflects Meryl’s commitment to creating a warm, community-driven environment. “Horses, cake, and a good glass of wine—what more could we want?” she laughs. It’s this attention to the small details that sets the event apart, creating an atmosphere that’s as inviting as it is professional.

Looking to the Future

With demand for Irish ponies still high, the timing of this event couldn’t be better. While Meryl is hesitant to make any firm predictions, she says with a smile, “Wouldn’t it be great if this became a regular fixture on the calendar?” Time will tell, but with the response the Showcase is already generating, there’s a good chance that this “one-of-a-kind event” will be the first of many. Searching for a partner in competition or simply a companion for the journey ahead, this Wednesday at Killossery Lodge Stud is the place to be. As Meryl envisions, “Wouldn’t it be great if this became a calendar event every year?” Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this inaugural event will a night to remember.