Eleven year old Ciaran Nallon, Ballylodge Stables, Knockmore, has won two gold medals representing Ireland in a two-week period.
Cavan Home Pony International Show began with Ciaran riding Mintfield Starlight to gold medal success in the 128 team event. Mintfield Starlight has had great success in the Pony Premier League. Owned by Sandra and Vinny Duffy from Knockmore, Mintfield Starlight has qualified to compete in the RDS Dublin Horse Show.
Kilcreene Apollo was a gold medal winner with the 128 Irish Pony team in Wales and at the West Home Pony International show last week.
Ciaran and Kilcreene Apollo were also team qualifier winners and grand prix winners and were in second place for horse of the year show qualifier. Kilcreene Apollo is owned by Peter and Joanne Houston from Co Down. To the delight of the Irish supporters 11-year-old Ciaran produced a thrilling third clear round for Team Ireland to ensure gold for Ireland.
Ciaran says he owes his great success to the commitment given to him by his parents Richie and Sandra and the pony owners who entrust him to compete their animals.
