Nestled in the picturesque Connemara National Park now sits the Connemara Pony Heritage Centre, a unique cultural experience in Co. Galway. The Heritage Centre may be new to the area, but the ponies themselves are not, having resided in the park since it opened in 1980. Cathy Snow has been looking after the herd for more than 20 years, and her family’s connection to the breed goes back generations.
“As custodians for the Connemara Pony Breeders Society we have played a part in being responsible for this special pony living and thriving within its own habitat,” explains Snow. “A deep love and respect for the Connemara pony has always been part of who I am.”
Connemara National Park is an ideal home for the animals, lush with plant life such as heather, gorse, sedge, wild herbs and flowers. There are areas for the ponies to shelter and plenty of room for them to live and grow. Also important is the opportunity the park provides for people to observe the ponies in their natural habitat.
Snow gives regular information sessions about the pony, its characteristics and historical significance. Meanwhile, she also runs a stud farm with her husband: Moorland Connemara Ponies. “It is important to encourage breeders to breed ponies that have the true conformational characteristics of the stud book. That includes strong, short legs made of good flat bone, deep bodies, short backs and heads with well-rounded jaws and big eyes.”
On top of that, the Connemara pony is generally described as good-natured and sure-footed. In other words, they prove to be an ideal companion as well as an impressive partner in sport. Snow breeds her ponies to a high standard and shows them at events like the Clifton Connemara Pony Show, which she describes as “the Olympics for ponies.” She has also been invited to judge at international shows, and she’s always thrilled to see the global reach of her beloved breed.
“The Connemara pony is like the Irish person in that they have been to so many countries and are a success. There are breed societies throughout the world with many members and they love to visit the home of the Connemara pony, as the pony is part of their family.”
According to Tourism Ireland, the pony’s origins are a matter of debate, but one story says they landed on the nation’s shores in 1588, swimming from the Spanish Armada. Others speculate that the breed may be traced all the way back to the Iron Age. One thing is not contested, however: these ponies are deeply important to Ireland’s past and present.
The Connemara pony was historically a working animal, pulling cargo such as peat from bogs (used to fuel the fires that once heated Irish homes) and stones for the fields. Snow came up with the idea for the heritage centre in hopes of paying tribute to the breed that was once so important to the survival of families on the Emerald Isle.
“They were an integral part of our Irish culture which we are grateful for. This centre provides a way for us to say, ‘thank you…’”
Additionally, it’s a place where equine enthusiasts can learn all about Ireland’s native pony, its history and its roots. There are games for younger visitors as well as a simulated carriage ride around the park, ideal for folks with mobility issues. The centre is open seven days a week and admission is free.
“The visitors come from all over the world. Some are visiting the park and see the Connemara ponies for the first time and fall in love with them,” shares Snow. “Others are breeders who want to see the ponies in their natural environment and come especially to meet the pony here. The Connemara pony herd is one of the main attractions for visitors within the park. Often people approach me at pony talks and say that this experience has made their holiday.”
It’s rewarding for Snow to see other people share her enthusiasm. She plans to be at the centre for the duration of the summer, available to answer any questions visitors might have. The hope is to continue to provide educational opportunities, such as seminars and lectures, all centred around the Connemara pony.
“It is a job that allows me to share my passion for this wonderful pony.”
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