As told by the organisers of the 63rd Killusty Pony Show.
On Saturday the 5th of July, the valley of Slievenamon will once again echo with the familiar buzz of hooves, chatter, and local pride as the 63rd Killusty Pony Show gets underway. Held just ten minutes outside Clonmel (E91 YX70), this iconic fixture on the calendar has been proudly running since its inception—remaining one of the last shows in Ireland completely dedicated to horses and ponies.
This year’s event brings a full day of top-tier equestrian competition. Seven rings will run classes for show ponies, show hunter ponies, Connemara ponies, working hunter ponies and horses, youngstock, cobs, ridden horses, and performance jumping. The show also includes a Small Hunter Championship Final, which has had qualifiers running nationwide all season. But the real crescendo? The All Ireland Pony Supreme Championship, where ten supreme champion ponies from across Ireland compete for the prestigious national title—generously sponsored once again by Kiltinan Castle Stud, owned by Lord and Lady Lloyd Webber.
The day kicks off early—with gates opening at 7:30am and first rings underway by 9. The buzz is real: competitors collecting numbers, local banter flying, old friends reuniting, and committee members pacing with checklists in hand. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, Killusty hits you with that unique blend of community warmth and competitive spirit.
“We get to see familiar faces returning and hear all about their success over the last year,” said one organiser. “But it’s just as special to welcome newcomers and see them experience their first rosette, especially if it’s a red one!”
What sets Killusty apart is its breadth: 92 classes covering the full spectrum of Irish equestrianism. It’s one of the few places left where everything—from youngstock to seasoned champions—is on show. And for young riders? There’s no better introduction. The show’s advice: “Enjoy the experience, take your time, and ask questions. The children receive a rosette, a plaque, and most importantly… sweets!”
This year sees a few standout additions. First, the ‘Trip to Tipp’ Bonus, a joint venture with Clonmel Show, offers €50 to matching pony-rider combinations who win the same classes at both shows. Classes included are Open Working Hunter Pony (133cm, 143cm, 153cm, Starter Stakes, Intermediate), Open Show Hunter Pony (same heights), and Open Show Pony (128cm, 138cm, 148cm).
Other additions include a Ridden Irish Draught Class, a Performance Draught Class, and for the first time, a Side Saddle Championship—affiliated with Side Saddle Ireland and part of the Side Saddle League, sponsored by Carr, Day and Martin.
Certain events always draw a crowd. The Working Hunter Course, set on grass and including a bank (ideal prep for RDS), never fails to attract attention. So too does the Race Horse to Riding Horse Class, which sees some well-known names take to the ring. The Small Hunter Championship and the All Ireland Pony Supreme Championship are must-see finales, while the Cob Championship and In-Hand Connemara Championship stir local pride and rivalry—“you can almost feel the tension in the air,” one organiser noted.
And let’s not forget the show’s softer side: the fancy dress class, a riot of colour and creativity, and the beloved dog show (starting around 2:30pm), which continues to grow year on year.
The Killusty Pony Show wouldn’t exist without the backing of over 100 sponsors, most of them local. That support, year after year, keeps the show alive.
This year’s key sponsors include:
And beyond sponsorship, the show’s thanks go out to the tireless volunteers, stewards, and catering staff. “Without them, the show simply wouldn’t happen.”
Whether you’re competing or spectating, Killusty has something for you. You don’t have to be an IPS member to take part—day memberships are available—and with Clonmel Show the very next day, the ‘Trip to Tipp’ is shaping up to be a proper weekend of showing.
As the show approaches, the team is clear: “It’s always a pleasure to reconnect with old friends… and we’re just as excited to meet new faces who’ll experience the unique charm and community spirit that make a day in Killusty so special.”
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