16/04/2026
RULES UPDATE 2026 | HIGH PERFORMANCE & GREEN HUNTER ☘️
As we finalise qualifier dates for this year’s High Performance & Green Hunter classes, there are some updates to class rules for 2026.
Please take note of the following changes:
☘️GREEN HUNTER☘️
•Combinations with clear rounds, -10 or -20 penalties (e.g. one knock -10, one refusal -15) penalties will now proceed to Phase Two.
• Combinations with more than -20 penalties will not go forward (new rule for 2026).
•A rider may qualify and compete two ponies for the Final.
• A ride judge will be present at each qualifier, so ponies and riders should prepare with this in mind. This phase remains a key part of assessing rideability and temperament.
• The top combinations ponies, based on the new progression rules, may gain qualification for the Final.
🏵️ HIGH PERFORMANCE 🏵️
• Combinations with less than 15 penalties (e.g. one knock or one refusal) will proceed to Phase Two.
• Combinations with more than 15 penalties will not progress (updated rule for 2026).
• The top four ponies, based on these criteria, may gain qualification for the Final.
🔹 JOKER FENCE UPDATE 🔹
As the river at the Clifden Showgrounds will not be used in the 2026 Final, there will be no Joker option in this year’s class.
The Joker fence was previously included as an alternative to the river, so it is no longer required under this format.
⚖️ JUDGES’ DECISION ⚖️
The judge’s decision is final. Qualification will be awarded at the judge’s discretion, and combinations must demonstrate a suitable standard of performance and readiness to qualify.
These rule changes have been made to further improve the standard of competition and ensure a high-quality final.
We encourage all competitors to review the full rules ahead of the season and prepare accordingly. They are available to read in full on our website:
https://connemaraponyshow.ie/equestrian-info/
We look forward to an exciting year of competition and wish everyone the best of luck in their qualifiers! Full list of qualifiers will be issued next week 🍀