IQHA Summer Newsletter
- Irish Quarter Horse Association Clg.
- Oct 2
- 4 min read
A Summer Show to Remember Our Summer Show at Drumcoura City was a true highlight of the calendar. Over two glorious days at the end of June, riders, families, and friends came together to celebrate everything we love about western riding The competition was fierce but friendly, and thanks to our photographer Morris Haggerty, every special moment was captured. The images from the show are now live, and they beautifully showcase the excitement and pride of our riders. We’re also thrilled to announce that Morris is our official photographer sponsoring our upcoming National Show, a wonderful way to celebrate his ongoing support of the IQHA.
Youth and Outreach Clinic in Mullingar
Another standout event this summer was our second Youth Outreach Clinic at Mullingar Equestrian Centre joining up with several Irish Pony Clubs. This gathering brought together young riders eager to learn more about western riding and to take their first steps in the sport. It was inspiring to see former members of the Irish Youth World Cup team with their coach, return to share their experiences and advice. Their stories were living proof of the opportunities and friendships that IQHA can open up, and it was a real “full circle” moment for everyone there. Pictured left: Youth committee members, Marleen Rutten with BrightGoldPoco Pine owned by Mr. Ron Weisz & Kristin Kilfeather her QH CR Best Lil Look.
Western Riding Takes the Stage at Cowboys & Heroes
We were also proud to showcase western riding on a bigger stage this summer at the Cowboys & Heroes Festival. Our demo brought western horsemanship to new audiences, sparking curiosity and excitement among spectators who may never have seen our style of riding up close before.
Adding to that, the much anticipated barrel racing final in which many IQHA members took part!
The crowd’s enthusiasm reminded us how special our sport is, and how important it is to share it beyond the arena!
Special Visit from AQHA International Manager Joanne Cañedo.
On August 19th, our IQHA Directors and Honorary President Ron Weisz had the great pleasure of welcoming AQHA International Manager Joanne Cañedo to Ireland. The meeting was both positive and inspiring, with encouraging discussions about the future of western riding and the continued growth of the Irish Quarter Horse Association. Joanne’s insight, support, and enthusiasm were greatly appreciated, and the conversation left us feeling very optimistic about the opportunities ahead. A huge thank you to Joanne for taking the time to meet with us, share her guidance, and strengthen the bond between AQHA and IQHA.
Celebrating 25 Years of IQHA
All of these events feel even more special this year, as 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of the Irish Quarter Horse Association. We are committed to building a community where riders can grow, compete, and enjoy the unique bond between horse and rider that western disciplines celebrate. This anniversary is a time to look back with pride at everything we’ve achieved, and to look forward to what comes next.
Looking Ahead
Niall Bradley with his QH mare ShesSoMagnetizing
The IQHA National Show The season isn’t slowing down yet, our National Show is right around the corner, and it promises to be one of the most exciting in our history, we’ll be running AQHA affiliated classes, giving competitors the chance to earn points and recognition directly from the American Quarter Horse Association with their registered AQH. Alongside these, we’ll also be offering our popular unaffiliated WRI (Western Riding Ireland) classes, ensuring there’s a place for every rider and all breeds of horse, no matter their experience level or background.
It’s shaping up to be a true celebration of everything we hope to achieve and what the IQHA stands for, promoting the American Horse Breed and recognising the inclusivity of all breeds, and the joy of Western Riding in Ireland. With the support of our amazing sponsors, our members, and friends like Ron Weisz, Morris Haggerty, Simon Power, Drumcoura City, James Jenkins, Keyflow Feeds, Riverbank Ranch, Meadowbrook Paint and Quarter horses, Cyndi Robbins Get Coached, True Grit, ND Equus, Bullhorn Ranch, N41 Fabrication, Banner Hill Sport Horses and many more, this National Show will be one for the history books.
Please get in touch if you would like to be a sponsor! info@iqha.ie
Check out some of our sponsorship options here: https://itsplainsailing.com/org/iqha
A Word from us
As we ride through this very special 25th anniversary year, we want to thank each and every one of you for being part of the IQHA family. From our dedicated riders and volunteers to our generous sponsors and supporters, it’s your passion that has carried us forward. The celebrations don’t stop with the National Show. We’re already looking ahead to a very special evening later this year, a chance to come together and reflect on the highlights of 2025, and recognise the achievements of our members. So, keep an eye out for more details soon about our IQHA Celebration & Awards Night, which we hope will be a fitting finale to our milestone year. Here’s to the next 25 years of riding, learning, and celebrating together. With thanks from all of us, The IQHA Board of Directors.
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