Connemara

Strong and Sporty for Riders of All Ages



The Connemara is recognized as the largest of the world’s pony breeds, ranging from 13 to 15 hands in height. Because of their deep, substantive, and sturdy body type, the Connemara make suitable mounts for children and adults alike. The hardiness and agility of this breed, as well as their temperament, intelligence, and sensible nature, makes the Connemara breed a versatile partner for many disciplines.

Originally developed in Ireland, the Connemara Pony has spread around the world and made its mark on horse sports, with purebred and partbreds competing up to the top levels in eventing, dressage, jumping, and combined driving. They are known for their longevity and soundness in body and mind, making them excellent family and all-around horses.

With humble beginnings as farm horses in the tough, rocky landscape of the Connemara region of Western Ireland, Connemaras were bred to be strong and reliable. The rich heritage, as well as the temperament, intelligence and sensible nature of the Connemara, have earned it a devoted fanbase in the U.S. Gray is the most common color in modern Connemaras, but all solid colors are found in the breed and accepted by the American Connemara Pony Society.

Contacts

Ashton Street
National Breeds & Disciplines Operations Manager
[email protected] (859) 225 - 2059

Resources

Forms and Publications

The Partnership Between the American Connemara Pony Society and the USEF Webinar

This ACPS/USEF Webinar was hosted during the 2022 USEF Annual Convention. The webinar illustrated the benefits of the relationship between ACPS and USEF. It also included details regarding the Connemara Rules Committee, the USEF HOTY award program, the Connemara judge’s clinic, and awards programs.

Video - The Connemara Pony with Trainer, Sarah McRae Thrasher

The Connemara Pony Sarah McRae Thrasher, who has studied, bred, and ridden Connemara ponies for over 12 years, explains the temperament, versatility, and conformation of the largest pony breed. Originating in Ireland, Connemaras come in multiple colors and have long lifespans. Thrasher explained that due to their curiosity, bravery, and willingness to learn new skills quickly, Connemaras are versatile, able to perform in multiple disciplines, and “great partners in all adventures.”

Webinar - The Ongoing Influence of our Connemara Foundation Mares

Providing information to Connemara enthusiasts on the impact the Connemara breed has had in the United States and the historical Connemara bloodlines in America, presented by the USEF Connemara Committee in conjunction with the American Connemara Pony Society, with guest speaker, Caroline Nesbitt. Caroline Nesbitt has an impressive resume as an expert on historical Connemara Pony bloodlines. Nesbitt will be focusing on seven mares that greatly influenced the breed in the United States: Winter Mollie, Clare Dun, Loughconeera Linnet, Western Lily, Winter Roche, Loughwell Beauty, and Glen Nelly

ACPS/USEF Membership Benefits

The benefits of being both a USEF member and a ACPS member