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In this thought-provoking episode of Connemara Pony Tales, host Lucinda Kelly tackles one of the most polarising debates in the native pony world today. As the Connemara pony gains unprecedented global popularity, is its rugged, versatile heritage being sacrificed at the altar of "show ring" aesthetics?

We are joined by an esteemed panel of experts to dissect the shift toward the "designer" show pony:

Vanessa Compton: Renowned UK producer and rider who made history with her Olympia Supreme Champion, Castle Comet. Vanessa brings an expert eye on what it takes to win at the highest level of showing.

Joe Burke: Experienced breeder and producer with a deep understanding of the breed's functional history and performance capabilities.

Bridget Lee: From the famed Clover Hill Connemaras, sharing her multi-generational perspective on breeding for substance, type, and the traditional Connemara spirit.

Together, we explore whether the modern demand for refined looks is diluting the hardiness and "bone" that made the Connemara a world-class athlete. Are we breeding away the very soul of the pony to win a red rosette?

Whether you are a breeder, judge, or enthusiast, this is a deep dive into the future of Ireland's native pony.

Host: Lucinda Kelly Production: Lucinda Kelly Post-Production & Editing: Pam Clingan

This series is part-funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine under the Equine Technical Support (ETS) Scheme.

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In the final episode of this Connemara Pony Tales season, host Lucinda Kelly sits down with one of the most talked-about duos in the UK pony world — Harlow White and her mum Chelsea White.

At just 14, Harlow has taken the showing circuit by storm with her Connemara pony King Bunowen Castle Ali (“Panda”), claiming major wins including Mountain & Moorland Ridden Connemara Pony of the Year at HOYS, the BSPS Heritage M&M Junior Championship at the Royal International Horse Show, and now a qualification for the London International Horse Show.

With over 800,000 YouTube subscribers and 400,000 TikTok followers, Harlow has built an incredible online community — but behind the screen is a hardworking family, hours in the yard, and a mother-daughter team that keeps everything on track.

In this warm and honest chat, Lucinda talks with the Whites about:
🐴 Their journey into Connemaras — and what makes the breed so special
🎥 The social media whirlwind: going viral, staying grounded, and inspiring the next generation
👩‍👧 The highs and chaos of working so closely together
🏆 Preparing for London and life after an unforgettable season
💌 Plus — our Fan Mail Quickfire Round featuring listener questions

A heartfelt thank-you to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for supporting this series through the Equine Technical Support (ETS) Grant, and to Pam Clingan for her fantastic work on production throughout the season.

💚 Connemara Pony Tales

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What does the future hold for the Connemara pony market in 2025? In this episode, we sit down with two very respected voices in the industry: Padraic Heanue, renowned breeder, judge, and lifelong advocate of the Connemara pony, and Emma Bevan, equestrian professional with extensive experience in pony sales and sport.

Together, they discuss the evolving landscape of Connemara pony breeding, buying, and selling — from rising international demand and shifting buyer expectations to the challenges facing small breeders and the impact of sport performance trends.

Whether you’re a breeder, buyer, seller, or simply a Connemara enthusiast, this conversation offers real-world insights and opportunities you won’t want to miss.

A big thank you to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, whose ETS Grant continues to support the development of the Connemara Pony Tales series.

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